Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount Review

Let’s Dive into Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount

The Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount promises rock-solid scope attachment and enhanced long-range capabilities. As someone who’s spent years mounting optics on everything from .22LRs to magnum hunting rifles, I’m always on the lookout for a mount that combines durability, precision, and ease of installation. This mount, manufactured by Leupold, boasts features like a 20 MOA slope for extended range shooting and compatibility with both 6-48 and the stronger 8-40 screws, which are particularly intriguing.

My quest for this particular mount stemmed from a frustrating experience with a less-than-stellar Picatinny rail on my new Bergara B-14. The original mount allowed movement after only a couple range trips. I needed something I could trust to hold zero on longer shots.

Upon unboxing, the Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount immediately impressed me with its solid construction and clean matte finish. It felt weighty and substantial in my hand, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand recoil. Compared to some of the lighter, more skeletonized mounts I’ve used, this one felt noticeably more robust.

I considered other options like the Seekins Precision 20 MOA rail and the Nightforce one-piece mount. The Seekins is a great option but I find the Leupold provided more value for the money. While the Nightforce is bombproof, its cost is difficult to justify.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism, excited to get this mount on the rifle and see if it lived up to the Leupold name. I was also a little apprehensive, hoping the provided screws would fit my Bergara without issue, given that I had read some conflicting reports online.


Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

The first test for the Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount came at my local range. I had mounted it on my Bergara B-14 in .308 Winchester, paired with a Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×40 scope. The weather was typically unpredictable with light rain and moderate winds.

Installation was straightforward; the mount aligned perfectly with the Bergara’s receiver, and the included fasteners worked without issue. After mounting, zeroing at 100 yards was a breeze, and I quickly moved to testing at 300, 500, and even 800 yards. The 20 MOA slope became invaluable, allowing me to dial in those longer shots without maxing out the scope’s internal adjustment.

The initial session was encouraging; the mount held zero perfectly, even after repeated strings of fire. There were no signs of loosening or shifting, a stark contrast to my previous experience with the inferior Picatinny rail.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount continues to perform flawlessly. It has endured multiple range sessions in varying conditions, including a particularly dusty outing in the high desert and a damp deer hunt in the Pacific Northwest. The mount has proven to be exceptionally durable with no noticeable signs of wear and tear.

Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking and performing like new. I even took it off for a complete rifle cleaning, and re-mounting was just as easy as the initial install, with no shift in zero. This is important to me.

Compared to other mounts I’ve used over the years, the Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount stands out in its ability to maintain zero under heavy recoil and harsh conditions. It significantly outperforms cheaper aluminum mounts that can be prone to flexing and loosening. It is also notably better than some of the older steel mounts I’ve used that lacked the precision machining of this Leupold product.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount

Specifications

  • The Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount is crafted from solid steel, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to deformation under stress. This is crucial for maintaining consistent accuracy over time.
  • It features a matte black finish, which not only provides a sleek, non-reflective look but also enhances corrosion resistance. The matte finish helps to prevent glare, which is important when shooting in bright sunlight.
  • The mount incorporates a 20 MOA cant, essential for long-range shooting as it provides additional elevation adjustment. The 20 MOA cant allows the scope to utilize more of its internal adjustment range for longer shots.
  • It’s designed for use on rifles and is adaptable for both 8-40 and 6-48 screws, making it compatible with a wide range of rifle receivers. This versatility ensures that the mount can be used on various rifle platforms, including those with larger magnum calibers.
  • The mount comes as a single piece, which enhances its rigidity and stability compared to multi-piece designs. One-piece construction minimizes the potential for movement and ensures a more secure scope attachment.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount excels in its primary function: securely attaching a scope to a rifle. Its solid steel construction and precise machining ensure that the scope remains firmly in place, even under heavy recoil.

The 20 MOA cant is a game-changer for long-range shooters. It allows for dialing in precise adjustments at extended distances without running out of elevation travel. The mount greatly exceeded my expectations, particularly in terms of its ability to hold zero consistently.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount is exceptional. The solid steel construction and precise machining instill confidence in its durability. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, reducing glare and protecting against corrosion.

The mount is relatively easy to install, even for those with limited experience. The single-piece design simplifies the process, and the included fasteners are of high quality.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid steel construction, the Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount is built to last. It can withstand the rigors of heavy use and harsh environmental conditions.

Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. I anticipate this mount will outlast most of my rifles.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount doesn’t come with many accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. The primary customization aspect is scope choice.

The mount is compatible with any scope that utilizes standard Picatinny or Weaver-style rings. Leupold recommends using their Mark 4 rings for optimal performance and fit, but other high-quality rings from brands like Nightforce, Badger Ordnance, and Seekins Precision will also work.

Pros and Cons of Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount

Pros

  • Solid Steel Construction: Provides exceptional durability and resistance to recoil, ensuring consistent zero.
  • 20 MOA Cant: Essential for long-range shooting, allowing for greater elevation adjustment.
  • Easy Installation: The one-piece design simplifies the mounting process.
  • Versatile Compatibility: Adaptable for both 8-40 and 6-48 screws, fitting a wide range of rifles.
  • Maintains Zero: Holds zero consistently, even under heavy use and in harsh conditions.

Cons

  • The “Tikka” model isn’t as pictured, and is just a standard rail.
  • Weight: The solid steel construction adds weight compared to aluminum alternatives.


Who Should Buy Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount?

The Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount is perfect for long-range shooters, hunters who demand reliability, and anyone looking for a bombproof mounting solution. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a mount that can withstand heavy recoil and maintain zero consistently.

This product might be overkill for casual plinkers or those shooting primarily at short ranges. Lightweight aluminum mounts might be a better choice for those prioritizing weight savings over extreme durability.

Must-have accessories include a quality set of Leupold Mark 4 rings and a torque wrench to ensure proper screw tension during installation. A scope level is also highly recommended for precise scope alignment.

Conclusion on Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount

The Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount is a top-tier mounting solution that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its solid steel construction, 20 MOA cant, and easy installation make it a standout choice for serious shooters.

The price is justified given its superior build quality and ability to maintain zero under the most demanding conditions. It offers excellent value, especially when compared to other high-end mounts in its class.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold Mark 4 One Piece Scope Mount to anyone looking for a durable, precise, and dependable scope mounting solution. If you’re serious about your shooting, this mount is an investment that will pay dividends in accuracy and peace of mind. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference that a quality mount can make!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top