What Makes American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount Stand Out?
In the world of precision shooting, a reliable scope mount is as crucial as the optic itself. The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount promises to deliver exceptional strength and stability without adding unnecessary weight. Its innovative tubular cantilevered design, combined with active scope support, sets it apart from traditional mounts. The mount claims to maximize rigidity and ensure consistent return-to-zero, a vital factor for any serious shooter. At a price of $349.00, it positions itself as a premium option for discerning shooters who demand top-tier performance.
I was looking for a lightweight, yet robust, scope mount that could withstand the recoil of my precision rifle. I needed a mount that would maintain zero, even after repeated firing sessions and rough handling in the field. The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount’s claims of superior strength-to-weight performance and recoil-proof design piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Air Brace immediately impressed me with its clean lines and purposeful design. The black anodized finish on the 7075 Aluminum gave it a rugged yet refined aesthetic. The mount felt surprisingly light in hand, especially considering its 34mm tube diameter and cantilevered design. Initial inspection revealed impeccable machining and a solid, confidence-inspiring build.
Compared to other mounts I’ve used, like the Spuhr ISMS and the Nightforce Unimount, the Air Brace offered a unique approach to scope support. The Spuhr, known for its integrated level and accessory mounting points, is a fantastic all-in-one solution, but it’s considerably heavier. The Nightforce Unimount, a reliable and proven design, lacks the forward ring support of the Air Brace. I chose the American Rifle Company product because I was intrigued by the potential for enhanced stability offered by its unique design.
I was genuinely excited to mount my Schmidt & Bender PMII onto the Air Brace and see if it lived up to the hype. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a lightweight yet incredibly stable platform for my expensive optic. A mount that could deliver on both fronts would be a game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount at my local shooting range, mounting it on my .308 precision rifle. I used a variety of ammunition, ranging from standard match-grade loads to heavier, more powerful rounds. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The mount performed flawlessly, maintaining zero throughout the entire range session, even after firing over 100 rounds. The ease of scope mounting, thanks to the no-roll design, was a welcome feature. I appreciated the secure and non-marring scope grip, which provided confidence that my optic was protected.
I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly and easily I was able to zero my rifle. The Air Brace’s stability translated directly to improved accuracy and consistency. There were no unexpected issues or hiccups during the initial testing phase.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount continues to impress me. It has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to a variety of conditions. I’ve used it in hot, dusty environments and even in light rain, without any degradation in performance.
The 7075 Aluminum construction has proven to be incredibly durable, resisting scratches and maintaining its structural integrity. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each range session is all it takes. Compared to previous mounts I’ve used, the Air Brace offers superior stability and return-to-zero consistency.
It has significantly outperformed my expectations, becoming an integral part of my precision shooting setup. I have complete confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of regular use and maintain its zero, shot after shot.
Breaking Down the Features of American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount
Specifications
The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount boasts the following technical specifications:
- Manufacturer: American Rifle Company.
- Fabric/Material: 7075 Aluminum.
- Color: Black.
- Base/Mount Type: Scope Mount.
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm.
- Ring Height: 38 mm.
The use of 7075 Aluminum is significant because it provides an excellent balance of strength and weight. The 34mm tube diameter is compatible with a wide range of high-end optics, making it a versatile choice. The 38mm ring height ensures adequate clearance for most scopes, even those with larger objective lenses.
Performance & Functionality
The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount excels in its primary function: providing a stable and secure platform for your riflescope. Its design actively supports the scope, minimizing flex and ensuring consistent alignment. This translates to improved accuracy and repeatability, especially at longer ranges.
Its strengths lie in its innovative design, robust construction, and ease of use. One area for potential improvement might be offering different ring height options to accommodate an even wider range of scopes and rifle configurations. It undoubtedly meets and even exceeds expectations, delivering on its promise of superior stability and performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Air Brace is exceptional, with precise machining and a durable finish. The 7075 Aluminum provides a lightweight yet incredibly strong foundation. The mount is well-balanced and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle.
The design is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive mounting system. The no-roll scope mounting feature makes installation a breeze. There is virtually no learning curve involved in setting up and using the Air Brace.
Durability & Maintenance
The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and robust construction. The 7075 Aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring long-term durability. With proper care, this mount should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean the mount with a soft cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required. The Air Brace is designed for easy maintenance and repair, ensuring minimal downtime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount does not come with any specific accessories, as it is a self-contained mounting solution. However, its Picatinny (MIL-STD-1913) rail compatibility means it will work with any rifle that features a standard Picatinny rail. Customization options are limited, as the mount is designed to be used as-is.
It is compatible with a wide range of scopes from various brands, provided they have a 34mm tube diameter. This makes it a versatile choice for shooters who want to use their favorite optics.
Pros and Cons of American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount
Pros
- The Tubular cantilevered design maximizes rigidity while minimizing weight.
- The Active forward ring support provides unmatched scope stability.
- The Recoil-proof non-marring scope grip protects your optic and ensures consistent zero.
- Its Simple and easy no-roll scope mounting simplifies installation.
- The Excellent Return-To-Zero guarantees shot-to-shot repeatability.
Cons
- The $349.00 price point may be prohibitive for some shooters.
- Limited customization options compared to some other scope mounts.
- Only available in one ring height (38mm), which may not be ideal for all scope/rifle combinations.
Who Should Buy American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount?
The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount is perfect for precision rifle shooters, competitive shooters, and hunters who demand the utmost stability and reliability from their scope mounting system. It is an excellent choice for anyone who values accuracy and consistency, and who is willing to invest in a high-quality product. This is especially true for those using high-end optics where maintaining zero is critical.
This product may not be necessary for casual shooters or those who primarily engage in short-range shooting. It may also be overkill for those who are on a tight budget. A must-have accessory is a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the mounting screws.
Conclusion on American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount
The American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount is an exceptional product that delivers on its promises of strength, stability, and reliability. Its innovative design and high-quality construction make it a standout in the crowded market of scope mounts. While the price may be a barrier for some, the performance and features justify the investment for serious shooters.
The value proposition is excellent, especially when considering the long-term benefits of improved accuracy and consistent zero. I would personally recommend the American Rifle Company Air Brace 34mm Riflescope Mount to anyone who is looking for a top-tier scope mounting solution. If you value precision and demand the best, this mount is a worthwhile investment that will enhance your shooting experience. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference that a quality scope mount can make!