The WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE Made a Bold First Impression
The WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE immediately screams precision and thoughtful design. From Warne, a name I’ve trusted for years, this scope mount promised a lightweight, yet robust solution for my AR-15 platform, and my initial impressions suggest it delivers on that promise. My previous mount, a hefty steel block, was reliable, but added unnecessary weight, impacting the rifle’s overall balance and maneuverability during dynamic drills.
I was specifically seeking a lighter alternative that wouldn’t compromise on return-to-zero reliability and offered some forward cantilever for optimal eye relief. I’ve struggled with “scope shadow” on several builds, making quick target acquisition a real chore. I picked the WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE over similar mounts from other manufacturers because of Warne’s established reputation for quality and the added inch of cantilever, a feature I suspected would solve my eye relief issues.
Unboxing it, the first thing I noticed was the clean machining and the Desert Earth (DE) finish. It’s visually appealing and seems durable. The skeletonized design is aggressive without being gaudy. The weight difference compared to my old mount was immediately noticeable; this felt significantly lighter in hand.
Compared to a Leupold Mark AR mount and a Burris PEPR mount I’ve used previously, the WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE feels like a step up in terms of both weight reduction and aesthetic design. I was definitely excited. I felt like I finally found a way to modernize my rifle and improve its handling.
Real-World Testing: Putting WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE at my local range, primarily focusing on drills involving rapid target acquisition and transitions. The weather was sunny and warm, a perfect day for shooting. The mount performed flawlessly, holding zero even after several magazines of rapid fire.
The added cantilever proved invaluable, allowing me to find the perfect eye relief almost instantly. I no longer had to crane my neck or adjust my shooting position to eliminate scope shadow. The improved ergonomics resulted in faster target acquisition and more accurate shots, particularly during transitions between multiple targets. There were no loose screws or shifting after the first session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a couple of weekend tactical training sessions, the WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE continues to impress. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my rifle with this mount installed, and it has held zero consistently. I even accidentally bumped the scope pretty hard against a barricade during a training exercise; it didn’t shift at all.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the finish is holding up well despite being subjected to some rough handling. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it looking new. Compared to my old steel mount, this Warne mount is significantly easier to maintain and shows no signs of rust or corrosion. It outperforms my previous experiences by a noticeable margin in terms of weight, ease of use, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE
Specifications
The WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE is precision CNC machined from 6061 aluminum, resulting in a lightweight yet durable construction. It is designed for AR-style firearms and places the optic at the ideal height for these platforms. The mount features an additional 1 inch of forward cantilever to provide optimal eye relief.
It utilizes #8 Torx style fasteners with steel threaded inserts to prevent stripping. The dual 1/2 tactical nut attachment requires 65 in/lb of torque for secure mounting. The skeletonized body and ring caps reduce the weight by over 30% compared to Warne’s R.A.M.P. Mount. These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the mount’s lightweight design, robust construction, ease of installation, and enhanced ergonomics.
Performance & Functionality
The WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE performs its job exceptionally well, providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics on AR-style rifles. Accuracy is maintained consistently, thanks to its robust construction and secure attachment system. Its ease of use is a major plus; installation is quick and straightforward. The additional cantilever provides a significant improvement in eye relief, making it comfortable to use with a wide range of scopes.
The only slight weakness I’ve observed is that the skeletonized design, while aesthetically pleasing and weight-saving, could potentially allow more debris to accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. However, this is easily mitigated with regular cleaning. It exceeds my expectations in terms of weight, aesthetics, and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the 6061 aluminum providing a great balance of strength and weight. At a glance, the mount feels durable and lightweight in hand. The skeletonized design isn’t just for looks; it genuinely reduces weight without sacrificing structural integrity. The design is very user-friendly; the 1-piece side clamp ensures a secure fit. The learning curve is minimal; any experienced shooter should be able to install and use this mount with ease.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, I expect the WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE to last for many years with proper care. The aluminum construction is resistant to corrosion, and the finish seems durable enough to withstand normal wear and tear. Maintenance is easy; a quick wipe down with a cloth and some CLP is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of 1-inch diameter scopes. Its design also makes it compatible with accessories like the Warne A645 45° side mount adaptor. This allows you to mount a red dot sight for close-quarters engagements.
Pros and Cons of WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE
Pros
- Lightweight Design: Significantly reduces the overall weight of the rifle.
- Excellent Return-to-Zero: Holds zero consistently, even after heavy use and accidental impacts.
- Extended Cantilever: Provides optimal eye relief for a wide range of scopes.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality 6061 aluminum for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Quick and straightforward to install with minimal tools.
Cons
- Skeletonized Design: Could potentially trap debris in hard-to-reach areas.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some competing mounts.
Who Should Buy WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE?
The WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical enthusiasts, and hunters who want a lightweight and reliable scope mounting solution for their AR-15 rifles. It’s especially beneficial for those who struggle with eye relief issues or want to reduce the overall weight of their firearm. Individuals prioritizing absolute rock-bottom cost above all other factors might consider alternatives, as there are cheaper options available, although they may sacrifice quality and performance. Must-have accessories would include a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper installation and a scope level to ensure the optic is perfectly aligned.
Conclusion on WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE
The WAR MOUNT GEN2 AR 1 EXT SKELETONIZED DE is an outstanding scope mount that delivers on its promise of lightweight performance and rock-solid reliability. The price of $125.00 is justified by the quality of materials, precision machining, and thoughtful design. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality scope mount for their AR-15. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality mount can make.