Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU Review

First Thoughts on the Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU

The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU scope mounts. These are designed to be an affordable and practical solution for mounting optics on rimfire rifles with 3/8″ grooved receivers, and offering a see-through design. These mounts piqued my interest. I was looking for a way to add an optic to my trusted .22 plinker without sacrificing the ability to quickly transition to iron sights.

For years, I’ve relied on various mounting solutions, from high-end quick-detach systems to budget-friendly options, and I was intrigued by the Leupold name attached to such an inexpensive product. My primary goal was to find a set of mounts that would provide a stable platform for a scope, allow for simultaneous use of iron sights, and not break the bank. The see-through design promised just that.

Unboxing the Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU mounts revealed a simple, no-frills product. The gloss finish and aircraft-grade aluminum construction felt solid enough for a .22, though not as robust as the steel mounts I’m accustomed to on larger caliber rifles. They were noticeably lighter than anticipated, a potential benefit for a lightweight rifle.

Compared to other see-through mounts I’ve experimented with, these appeared to offer a cleaner, less obstructive sight picture beneath the scope. Many cheaper see-through mounts create a tunnel-like effect or have excessive material blocking the iron sights. I specifically chose these over Weaver-style adapters because I needed a direct 3/8″ dovetail mount and wanted to minimize the stack height.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price point was certainly appealing, but I was curious about the actual quality and how well the see-through functionality would work in practice. I hoped they would live up to the Leupold reputation for quality, even at the budget end of their product line.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU mounts on my Ruger 10/22. I paired them with a compact 4×32 rimfire scope and headed to my local outdoor range. The installation was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a screwdriver.

The initial zeroing process was smooth. The mounts held the scope securely throughout several magazines. I found the see-through functionality to be surprisingly effective, allowing for a quick transition to the iron sights at close range, which was perfect for practicing rapid target acquisition. The high-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, did produce some glare in direct sunlight, but it wasn’t a major issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU mounts have proven to be reasonably durable. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through my 10/22 with these mounts installed. There are no signs of slippage or loosening.

The finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from handling. I’ve cleaned the mounts a few times, and they are easy to wipe down with a cloth. They don’t require any special maintenance. Compared to some other budget mounts I’ve used, these have held up much better, maintaining zero and showing no signs of degradation.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU

Specifications

The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU scope mounts are designed for rifles with a 3/8″ grooved receiver. This is typical of many .22 rifles. They feature a 1″ tube diameter to accommodate most common rifle scopes.

The height of the mounts is 0.96″, which is sufficient to clear most iron sights for the see-through functionality. They are constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and weight reduction. The mounts feature a gloss finish.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU mounts is to provide a stable platform for mounting a scope while allowing the use of iron sights. In this regard, they perform adequately. The see-through design provides a reasonably clear sight picture, allowing for quick transitions between the optic and iron sights.

However, the relatively low height of the mounts means that cheek weld can be compromised, requiring a slightly higher head position when using the scope. The aluminum construction is strong enough for a .22, but I wouldn’t trust it with a high-powered rifle or heavy recoil. These mounts meet expectations for a budget-friendly option, providing functional performance without excessive frills.

Design & Ergonomics

The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU mounts feature a simple, functional design. The aircraft-grade aluminum keeps the weight down, which is beneficial for a lightweight rifle. The gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to glare.

The design is relatively user-friendly. The mounts install easily with basic tools. The see-through design is functional, though not as refined as some higher-end options.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum construction of the Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU mounts is adequate for a .22 rifle. Over time, I would expect some wear on the finish. However, the mounts themselves should last for many years with proper care.

Maintenance is minimal. Cleaning involves wiping down the mounts with a cloth to remove dirt and debris. No special tools or lubricants are required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU mounts themselves don’t offer much in the way of customization. However, they are designed to accommodate any 1″ tube rifle scope. This allows for a wide range of optic choices.

They are compatible with most .22 rifles that feature a 3/8″ grooved receiver, making them versatile in that regard. While they don’t directly integrate with other accessory systems, the standard 1″ tube allows for a vast array of scope options.

Pros and Cons of Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU