WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED Review

The WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED Made a Bold First Impression

For years, I’ve struggled to get the most out of my MSR platform at longer distances. Minute-of-angle adjustments felt insufficient, leading to frustration and missed opportunities. Enter the WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED from Warne, promising a solution with its built-in 20 MOA slope for enhanced long-range precision.

My quest began with a specific need: maximizing the effective range of my .223 AR-15 for varmint hunting and target practice beyond 600 yards. Factory-standard mounts simply weren’t cutting it, limiting my scope’s elevation adjustment and leaving me with a shrinking field of view. I needed a mount that would allow me to dial in those longer shots without compromising image quality or relying on holdovers.

Unboxing the WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED, I was immediately struck by its aggressive, skeletonized design. The machining looked precise, and the black anodized finish gave it a professional, durable feel. It felt significantly lighter than my previous mount, which was a solid, non-skeletonized model.

I considered a few other options, including mounts from Aero Precision and Nightforce. However, the Warne mount’s extended cantilever and integrated 20 MOA seemed perfectly tailored to my needs. Aero Precision offered a lighter option, but lacked the extended cantilever, while the Nightforce mount was considerably more expensive. The WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED seemed to strike the perfect balance between features, performance, and price.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for improved long-range performance, but also slightly concerned about whether the skeletonized design would sacrifice structural integrity. Only real-world testing would reveal the truth.

Real-World Testing: Putting WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED was at my local shooting range, a dusty, outdoor facility with distances ranging from 100 to 800 yards. I mounted a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 scope onto the mount and then secured the entire assembly onto my AR-15. Initial zeroing at 100 yards was straightforward, and I quickly moved on to longer distances.

The 20 MOA built-in slope made an immediate difference. I was able to dial in elevation adjustments for 600 and 700-yard targets without maxing out my scope’s internal adjustment range. The extended cantilever provided ample eye relief, allowing me to maintain a comfortable and consistent cheek weld. I fired approximately 100 rounds that day, experiencing no issues with the mount’s stability or performance.

The only minor observation was the increased perceived recoil, possibly due to the lighter weight of the mount compared to my previous, heavier model. However, this was easily managed with proper shooting technique.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including hot, dry summer days and cold, damp winter afternoons. The mount has held zero consistently, even after being subjected to the bumps and jolts of transportation and field use.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The black anodized finish has held up well, resisting scratches and corrosion. Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each shooting session.

Compared to my previous experiences with other mounts, the WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED has significantly outperformed them in terms of long-range performance and weight reduction. While some mounts may offer slightly more robust construction, the Warne mount strikes an excellent balance between durability, functionality, and value.

Breaking Down the Features of WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED

Specifications

• 20 MOA Built-In Slope: This allows for increased elevation adjustment when shooting at long ranges. This is critical for maximizing the effective range of your scope.
• CNC Precision Machined from 6061 Aluminum: This ensures high strength and lightweight construction. The 6061 aluminum is robust and can withstand significant stress.
• Skeletonized Body and Ring Caps: These features reduce weight by over 30% compared to Warne’s R.A.M.P. Mount. This is important for maintaining a balanced rifle setup.
• Extended Design: Provides an additional inch of forward cantilever compared to the original SKEL Mount. This allows for proper eye relief, especially with scopes that have large eye boxes.
• #8 Torx Style Fasteners with Steel Threaded Inserts: These provide secure and reliable clamping force while preventing stripping. These are essential for consistent performance and longevity.
• Dual 1/2 Tactical Nut Attachment: This ensures a strong and stable connection to the MSR platform. The dual nut system distributes force evenly and prevents loosening.
• Ideal Height for MSR and Similar Platforms: Positions the optic at the optimal height for comfortable shooting. This height promotes a natural and ergonomic shooting posture.

Performance & Functionality

The WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED performs its job exceptionally well. The built-in 20 MOA slope is a game-changer for long-range shooting, allowing me to easily dial in shots at distances beyond 600 yards. The extended cantilever provides ample eye relief, even with scopes that have large eye boxes.

The mount’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, robust construction, and precise engineering. A potential weakness could be its skeletonized design if subjected to extreme impact, although I have not experienced any issues in my testing. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED boasts a sleek and modern design. The skeletonized body reduces weight without sacrificing strength, while the black anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. The mount is lightweight and comfortable to use, and the extended cantilever ensures proper eye relief.

There is no significant learning curve. The mount is easy to install and adjust, making it user-friendly even for novice shooters.

Durability & Maintenance

The WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED is built to last. The 6061 aluminum construction and durable finish ensure long-term reliability. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each shooting session.

Accessories and Customization Options

The WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of MSR platforms and optics. The extended design provides extra space behind the mount for accessories like the Warne A645 45° side mount adapter, allowing for the attachment of secondary optics.

Pros and Cons of WAR MOUNT 20MOA 1 MSR BLK EXT SKELETONIZED