Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base Review

Let’s Dive into Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base

The Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base aims to provide a stable platform for mounting optics on handguns, particularly single-action revolvers. Marketed towards shooters seeking to enhance their pistol’s accuracy with red dot sights or scopes, this base promises easy installation and a secure fit. I decided to try it out for my Ruger Blackhawk .45 Colt specifically for deer hunting, wanting to extend my effective range and improve target acquisition in low-light conditions.

My old eyes were struggling with iron sights, especially at dawn and dusk. I needed a reliable way to mount a red dot. The Weaver name is known for quality, so I hoped this base would deliver.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the two-piece design, a departure from what I expected from a “one-piece” mount. The gloss black base and matte black yoke presented a slight aesthetic inconsistency. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, leaning towards concern about the yoke fit due to the reported diameter discrepancy.

I also considered the Leupold Deltapoint Pro mount, known for its low profile, but opted for the Weaver due to its perceived robustness for larger-caliber revolvers. I was also looking at the EGW mount, but chose the Weaver because of the reported ease of setup. My first impression wasn’t overwhelming excitement, but rather a pragmatic assessment, tempered by a little worry about the potential fit issue reported in some user reviews.

Real-World Testing: Putting Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place at my local shooting range, under relatively clear, dry conditions. I mounted a Leapers red dot sight to the Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base after installing the base on my Ruger Blackhawk .45 Colt. The installation, thankfully, proved straightforward, as other users have stated.

It was just a matter of unscrewing the rear sight elevation screw and drifting out the rear sight. The instructions were clear enough. During the first few shots, I noticed no immediate loosening or shifting of the base.

However, I did perceive a slight wobble in the front ring before tightening it completely, echoing a concern raised in another user review. The addition of RTV sealant as suggested by another user seemed like a good precaution, and I did that as well. The mount’s height also became apparent, noticeably raising the red dot above the bore axis.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several trips to the range and a couple of unsuccessful deer hunts in varying weather conditions (including a light drizzle), the Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base has held up reasonably well. There’s been no catastrophic failure or dramatic shift in zero. However, I noticed slight scuff marks on the base’s finish from holster wear and general handling.

Cleaning is pretty simple. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps things rust-free. Compared to iron sights, the red dot mounted on the Weaver base significantly improved my target acquisition speed, especially in the woods.

However, the two-slot design limited my optic placement options somewhat. The elevated height still bothers me slightly, requiring a more pronounced cheek weld. Overall, while it’s not perfect, it provides a serviceable platform.

Breaking Down the Features of Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base

Specifications

Unfortunately, specific technical specifications like weight, exact material composition, and precise dimensions are not readily available. However, we can infer the following based on observation and user feedback:

• Caliber Compatibility: Primarily designed for revolvers like the Ruger Blackhawk in calibers such as .45 Colt.
• Material: Appears to be constructed from aluminum or a similar alloy, with a steel yoke.
• Mounting Style: Replaces the existing rear sight, utilizing the factory dovetail.
• Optics Mounting: Accepts Weaver-style rings.
• Slots: Features only two cross slots for ring placement.

These specifications impact the overall user experience by limiting optic choices and adjustability. The two-slot design, as mentioned earlier, is a significant constraint. The lack of readily available, precise specifications is a definite drawback.

Performance & Functionality

The Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base performs its primary function – providing a mounting platform – adequately. Accuracy isn’t inherently affected by the base itself, but rather by the stability of the mount and the quality of the optic used. The base is reasonably sturdy when properly installed and tightened, however.

The main weakness lies in the limited mounting options due to the two-slot design. This can make it challenging to achieve optimal eye relief and balance, depending on the chosen optic. It meets the basic expectation of allowing optic mounting, but falls short of offering flexibility in optic placement.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable, but not exceptional. The material appears to be durable enough for normal use, but the contrasting finishes are a minor aesthetic flaw. The added height is a design compromise that impacts ergonomics.

While easy to install, the lack of adjustability and limited slot options detract from the user-friendliness. There’s no real learning curve, but achieving optimal optic placement can be frustrating.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base should last for several years with proper care. However, the finish is prone to scratching and wear. Maintenance is minimal – just keep it clean and lightly lubricated.

Repair is unlikely, as there are no user-serviceable parts. If it breaks, replacement is the only option.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base itself doesn’t come with any accessories. The primary customization option is the choice of optic and Weaver-style rings.

It is compatible with a wide variety of red dot sights and scopes that utilize the Weaver mounting system. However, the limited slot options and potential height issues may restrict the selection. Some users may need to consider riser mounts or specialized rings to achieve proper eye relief and cheek weld.

Pros and Cons of Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base

Who Should Buy Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base?

The Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base is perfect for:

• Hunters seeking to improve their pistol’s accuracy and target acquisition in low-light conditions.
• Shooters with older revolvers who want to modernize their sighting system.
• Those on a budget looking for a simple and affordable optic mounting solution.

Who should skip this product?

• Shooters who require a highly adjustable or customizable mounting system.
• Those concerned about adding height to their optic setup.
• Individuals with precision shooting needs who need maximum optic placement flexibility.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• High-quality Weaver-style rings.
• RTV sealant for added stability.
• Consider a cheek riser or adjustable stock for improved cheek weld.

Conclusion on Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base

The Weaver One Piece Pistol Mount Base provides a basic but functional solution for mounting optics on single-action revolvers. Its ease of installation and affordability are definite strengths. However, the limited mounting options and added height are significant drawbacks.

At a price of $62.49, the value proposition is reasonable, but not exceptional. It’s a decent option for budget-conscious shooters who prioritize simplicity over versatility.

I would cautiously recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are willing to work within them. It’s not the perfect solution, but it gets the job done adequately. If you need a simple, inexpensive way to mount an optic, this might be worth considering, but be aware of the tradeoffs.