The Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish Made a Bold First Impression
The Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish isn’t just another scope mount; it’s a statement. This one-piece base and ring combo from Warne promises a lightweight, durable, and repeatable mounting solution for AR-platform rifles, specifically those needing a 1″ scope tube. Its design speaks of precision and reliability, crucial aspects for any serious shooter.
For years, I’ve struggled with scope mounts that either added unnecessary weight or failed to maintain zero after repeated use. The constant tweaking and re-zeroing became a frustrating ritual, impacting my confidence and accuracy at the range. I needed a mounting solution that was both robust and lightweight, something that wouldn’t compromise the balance of my AR while ensuring rock-solid stability for my optic.
Upon unboxing the Warne XSKELITW, I was immediately impressed by its clean lines and the smooth, matte black finish. The mount felt substantial without being overly heavy, a clear indication of the high-quality 6061 aluminum used in its construction. The one-piece design exuded confidence, suggesting a rigid and stable platform for my scope.
Compared to other mounts I’ve used, like the more budget-friendly offerings from UTG or the heavier steel mounts from Leupold, the Warne XSKELITW struck a perfect balance. It seemed to offer the lightweight advantages of aluminum with the robustness needed for consistent performance. The extra cantilever provided by the Gen II design was a particularly appealing feature, promising to solve potential eye relief issues I’ve encountered with some of my scopes.
My first impression was definitely one of excitement. The Warne XSKELITW appeared to be a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed product that could potentially solve my scope mounting woes. The promise of reduced weight, increased stability, and improved eye relief made me eager to get it mounted and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Warne XSKELITW was my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for a spring day: intermittent sunshine with a slight breeze, providing decent visibility. I mounted the Warne XSKELITW on my AR-15, pairing it with a 1″ Leupold VX-Freedom scope that I use for both target practice and varmint hunting.
The installation process was straightforward, thanks to the mount’s intuitive design and the included hardware. I was able to securely attach the scope and mount to my rifle in a matter of minutes, torquing the screws to the recommended specifications. During my initial session, which consisted of about 100 rounds of 5.56, I noticed that the Warne XSKELITW held zero exceptionally well.
I was initially concerned about potential loosening of the mounting screws due to recoil, but I experienced no such issues during my first session. The scope remained firmly in place throughout my initial testing, and the image was consistently clear and stable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Warne XSKELITW continues to impress. I’ve taken it through a variety of shooting conditions, including hot summer days at the range and a few drizzly afternoons while hunting groundhogs on a friend’s farm. The mount has consistently performed flawlessly, maintaining zero even after hundreds of rounds and exposure to varying weather conditions.
The black finish on the Warne XSKELITW has proven to be quite durable, showing only minor signs of wear and tear despite being bumped and jostled in my rifle case and while navigating through dense brush. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. Compared to some of my previous scope mounts, the Warne XSKELITW definitely outperforms them in terms of durability and reliability, offering a level of confidence that I haven’t experienced before.
The enhanced cantilever of the Gen II design has been a game-changer for me, allowing me to achieve perfect eye relief with my Leupold scope. This has improved my shooting accuracy and reduced eye strain during extended shooting sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish
Specifications
The Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish is precision-machined from 6061 aluminum, contributing to its lightweight and durable construction. This aluminum offers a great balance of strength and weight, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The mount is designed to accommodate scopes with a 1″ tube diameter, a common size for many popular optics.
The black anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a sleek, tactical look. The Gen II design incorporates an additional inch of forward cantilever compared to the original SKEL Mount, aiding in achieving proper eye relief, especially with scopes that have larger eye boxes. Weighing in at only a few ounces, the Warne XSKELITW keeps the overall weight of your rifle to a minimum.
Its one-piece side clamp design enhances strength and stability, ensuring a secure and repeatable mounting platform. This design minimizes the risk of screws loosening under recoil, which is crucial for maintaining zero.
Performance & Functionality
The Warne XSKELITW excels in its primary function: providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting a scope on an AR-style rifle. Its accuracy and reliability are top-notch, as evidenced by my consistent ability to maintain zero even after prolonged use and exposure to varying environmental conditions. The mount’s ease of use is also a significant advantage, as it can be quickly and easily installed with minimal tools and expertise.
One of the strengths of the Warne XSKELITW is its lightweight design, which minimizes the added weight to the rifle. The extra cantilever, however, might be unnecessary for some setups, potentially adding length that isn’t needed. Overall, the Warne XSKELITW meets and even exceeds my expectations, offering a high level of performance and functionality.
It truly delivers on its promise of a lightweight, durable, and repeatable mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Warne XSKELITW boasts a clean, minimalist design that complements the aesthetics of most AR-style rifles. Its build quality is exceptional, with precise machining and a smooth, even finish. The mount feels solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the stresses of recoil and rough handling.
The Warne XSKELITW is incredibly user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to install and adjust. There’s no significant learning curve involved; even novice shooters can easily mount their scopes using this system.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 6061 aluminum construction and durable black anodized finish, the Warne XSKELITW is built to last. I expect it to provide many years of reliable service with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is typically sufficient to keep it in good condition.
The durable finish resists scratches and corrosion, ensuring that the mount maintains its appearance even after extensive use in the field. Regular checks of the mounting screws are recommended to ensure they remain properly torqued.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Warne XSKELITW doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories, focusing instead on providing a solid foundation for mounting your optic. It is designed to be compatible with any standard 1″ scope, offering a wide range of optic choices. While there are no specific customization options directly related to the mount itself, its compatibility with various scopes allows for personalized setup.
The mount’s standard Picatinny rail interface ensures compatibility with a wide range of AR-style rifles and accessories. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal.
Pros and Cons of Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish
Pros
- Lightweight design that doesn’t add unnecessary weight to your rifle.
- Durable 6061 aluminum construction for long-lasting performance.
- One-piece design for enhanced stability and repeatability.
- Extended cantilever provides optimal eye relief for various scopes.
- Easy to install, requiring minimal tools and expertise.
Cons
- The extended cantilever may not be necessary for all setups.
- Only compatible with 1″ scope tubes, limiting optic choices.
Who Should Buy Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish?
The Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish is perfect for AR-15 owners looking for a lightweight, durable, and reliable scope mounting solution. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters who require extended eye relief or those who want to minimize the overall weight of their rifle. Hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical enthusiasts will appreciate the mount’s robust construction and consistent performance.
Those who should skip this product include individuals who require a mount for larger scope tube diameters (e.g., 30mm or 34mm). Shooters who prefer heavier, more traditional steel mounts might also want to consider other options.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the mount or scope. Consider also a high-quality scope level to ensure your optic is perfectly aligned.
Conclusion on Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish
The Warne XSKELITW 1-Pc Base & Ring Combo For AR 1″ Style Black Finish is a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed scope mount that delivers on its promises. Its lightweight construction, durable materials, and stable one-piece design make it an excellent choice for AR-15 owners seeking a reliable mounting solution. The added cantilever is a welcome feature for those struggling with eye relief issues.
At around $125.00, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, precision machining, and overall performance. It represents a solid investment for shooters who demand accuracy and reliability from their equipment.
I would absolutely recommend the Warne XSKELITW to anyone looking for a top-tier scope mount for their AR-15. Upgrade your setup and experience the difference a quality mount can make. Get yours today and experience the Warne advantage!