Let’s Talk About Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount
The Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount is designed for bolt-action rifles like the Remington 700 and Savage 10/110. It’s a single-piece scope mount crafted from 6061 aluminum, offering a blend of strength and lightweight construction. The integrated swing-out anti-cant level is a particularly appealing feature, ensuring a perfectly level scope alignment for improved accuracy.
My precision rifle build was suffering from inconsistent long-range shots. I suspected my old scope rings were contributing to the issue, particularly canting. I was seeking a robust, one-piece solution that could eliminate this variable and provide a stable platform for my optic.
Upon unboxing, the Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount immediately impressed me with its solid feel. The 6061 aluminum construction feels substantial, while remaining surprisingly light. The anodized finish provides a sleek, professional look and hints at resistance to scratches and corrosion.
Compared to separate ring and base systems from Leupold and Warne, the one-piece design of the Wheeler Engineering mount promised increased rigidity and simplified installation. While those options offered modularity, I valued the guaranteed alignment and inherent strength of a single-piece unit for my specific rifle. This appeared to be a far more simplified approach.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount seemed well-made and thoughtfully designed, especially considering its affordable price of $45.80. I was excited to see if it lived up to its promise on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount at my local outdoor shooting range on a Remington 700 chambered in .308 Winchester. The weather conditions were dry and sunny with a slight breeze, ideal for sighting in a rifle. The rifle was supported by a bipod on a bench.
The integrated anti-cant level proved invaluable during the mounting process, ensuring the scope was perfectly aligned with the rifle. The 20 MOA elevation built into the base was a welcome addition, providing extra vertical adjustment for long-range shooting without maxing out my scope’s internal adjustments. The scope was a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50.
Installation was straightforward, with the six-hole ring design providing ample clamping force. After about an hour of fine-tuning, the scope was zeroed at 100 yards. I did notice that I had to adjust the swing out level to get an accurate reading.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount has proven to be reliable and durable. I have approximately 500 rounds through the rifle. I’ve taken the rifle on multiple hunts and target shooting sessions. The zero has held consistently, even after rough handling and temperature fluctuations.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the anodized finish has held up well against scratches and minor impacts. The mount has remained firmly attached to the rifle, with no loosening or slippage observed.
Compared to the previous separate ring and base setup I was using, the Wheeler Engineering mount offers a noticeable improvement in stability and confidence. The one-piece design eliminates potential sources of error and provides a rock-solid foundation for accurate shooting. It has surpassed my expectations, especially considering the price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Wheeler Engineering.
- Fabric/Material: 6061 Aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet durable construction.
- Gun Make: Designed for Remington and Savage bolt-action rifles.
- Cant: 20 MOA elevation built into the base, allowing for extended long-range shooting capabilities.
- Ring Height: Medium, providing sufficient clearance for most scope objectives.
- Included Accessories: Flip-Out Anti-Cant Level, helping ensure precise scope alignment during installation and use.
- Ring Quantity: Pair, accommodating standard scope mounting requirements.
- Attachment Type: Riflescope Ring, designed for secure attachment to compatible rifles.
- Finish: Anodized, offering corrosion resistance and a sleek aesthetic.
- Gun Type: Rifle, specifically bolt-action rifles.
- Quantity: 1, referring to a single, one-piece scope mount.
- Package Type: Box, indicating standard retail packaging.
- Size: Medium, fitting common scope tube diameters.
These specifications are essential because they dictate the mount’s compatibility, durability, and performance. The 6061 aluminum offers a good balance between strength and weight. The 20 MOA cant ensures optimal long-range accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount performs its job admirably, providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting a riflescope. The integrated anti-cant level is a significant advantage, allowing for quick and easy verification of proper scope alignment. It enhances accuracy at extended ranges.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. The one-piece design eliminates potential weak points. While the anti-cant level is a useful feature, it could benefit from a slightly smoother swing-out mechanism.
The mount significantly exceeds expectations, providing performance comparable to more expensive options. The 20 MOA cant provides sufficient elevation adjustment for my .308 Winchester.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the 6061 aluminum construction feeling solid and durable. The anodized finish provides a clean and professional appearance. The mount is lightweight, adding minimal weight to the overall rifle setup.
The mount is user-friendly. The anti-cant level is easy to use. No significant learning curve is required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount is designed to last. The 6061 aluminum construction and anodized finish offer excellent resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, this mount should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Periodic cleaning with a soft cloth is all that’s typically required. The anodized finish is resistant to corrosion, reducing the need for specialized cleaning products.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount comes with the essential swing-out anti-cant level. No other accessories are included. While there aren’t specific customization options for the mount itself, it is compatible with a wide range of scopes and rifles within the specified dimensions (1″, 30mm, and 34mm ring sizes).
The mount is compatible with standard Picatinny rails found on most modern rifles. It is also suitable for various scope brands and models.
Pros and Cons of Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount
Pros
- Solid 6061 Aluminum Construction: Provides excellent durability and stability for your scope.
- Integrated Anti-Cant Level: Ensures precise scope alignment, improving long-range accuracy.
- 20 MOA Elevation: Offers additional vertical adjustment for extended shooting distances.
- One-Piece Design: Simplifies installation and enhances overall rigidity.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the features and performance offered.
Cons
- Swing out anti-cant level does not always swing smoothly.
- No high ring height options available.
Who Should Buy Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount?
The Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount is perfect for:
- Hunters seeking a reliable and accurate scope mounting solution for their bolt-action rifles.
- Target shooters looking for a stable platform to improve long-range precision.
- Anyone building a budget-friendly precision rifle without sacrificing quality.
This product may not be ideal for:
- Users who require adjustable ring height.
- Those needing quick-detach capabilities for rapid scope changes.
- Users who have no need for a cant indicator.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory. This will prevent over-tightening the screws and damaging the scope or mount.
Conclusion on Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount
The Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount is a well-designed, robust, and affordable scope mounting solution for bolt-action rifles. Its strengths lie in its solid construction, integrated anti-cant level, and 20 MOA elevation. It offers excellent value for the price.
The price is definitely justified. It offers features and performance typically found in more expensive mounts.
I would definitely recommend the Wheeler Engineering 1 Piece Cantilever Scope Mount to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate scope mounting solution on a budget. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a solid scope mount can make!