Let’s Dive into XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount
The XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount promises to modernize lever-action rifles, specifically the Mossberg 464. This mount enables the user to attach a modern scout scope, shifting the optic forward for improved field of view and faster target acquisition. I’ve spent years working with lever guns and modern optics, always looking for ways to improve their versatility and performance, so this product immediately caught my attention.
I’d been searching for a reliable way to mount a scout scope on my Mossberg 464. I wanted to improve the rifle’s accuracy at longer ranges without sacrificing the classic lever-action feel.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was slightly mixed. The XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount seemed robust, with a matte black finish. It felt like a quality piece of metal. However, the simplicity of the design also made me question whether the installation would be as straightforward as advertised. It certainly looked much more utilitarian than some of the more elaborate, and significantly more expensive, scout mounts on the market.
There are other scout mounts available, but many are either universal fits (which can be clunky) or require extensive gunsmithing. I chose the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount hoping for a simple, drop-in solution that maintained the sleek lines of the Mossberg 464.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The mount looked well-made, but the negative user reviews regarding fitment issues gave me pause. I hoped my experience would be better and that the mount would live up to its promise of easy installation and improved accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment where I could focus solely on the performance of the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount. The weather was dry and clear, ideal for sighting in a new optic.
The installation process was not as smooth as I had hoped. The provided screws stripped easily, echoing the complaints in some user reviews. Eventually, I managed to secure the mount, but the process was frustrating. Furthermore, I noticed the reported issue of the rail sitting at an angle, noticeably higher at the front than at the rear. This immediately presented concerns about achieving proper zero with my scout scope.
The angled mount impacted usability significantly. Despite adjusting the scope to its maximum elevation, I struggled to achieve a proper zero at 100 yards. This made the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount virtually unusable out of the box.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and attempts to correct the mounting issue, the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount has remained a disappointment. The angled rail persists, making accurate shooting beyond close distances impossible.
The durability of the mount itself seems adequate, with no signs of bending or cracking. However, the easily stripped screws are a major concern.
Cleaning the rifle with the mount installed is straightforward, but the inherent inaccuracy of the setup negates any positive aspects. Compared to my previous experiences with other scout mounts (on different rifles), this product falls far short of expectations. It provides no real improvement over the factory sights and, in fact, hinders performance.
Breaking Down the Features of XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount
Specifications
The XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount is designed specifically for the Mossberg 464 lever-action rifle with round barrel models. The mount is constructed from what appears to be aluminum. It features a matte black finish for corrosion resistance and reduced glare.
The mount includes a Picatinny rail for attaching scout scopes or other optical sights. It is designed to replace the rear sight and attach to the barrel using provided screws. The listed quantity is one rail per package. These specifications, on paper, seem adequate, but the execution is flawed due to the poor fitment.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount is to provide a stable platform for mounting a scout scope on a lever-action rifle. Unfortunately, due to the aforementioned angled rail, the mount fails to perform this function adequately. Accuracy is severely compromised, and achieving a reliable zero is extremely difficult.
The mount’s strength is its solid construction, but its major weakness lies in its poor fitment and resulting inaccuracy. The product does not meet expectations and, in my experience, significantly hinders the rifle’s performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount is simple and straightforward. The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing and reduces glare.
However, the overall design suffers from poor execution. The angled rail is a major ergonomic flaw, making the mount difficult to use effectively. The user-friendliness is severely impacted by the inherent design flaw.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used in the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount appear to be durable, and the mount itself shows no signs of wear and tear after several range sessions. It seems that the mount will likely last a long time, provided that it is correctly installed, though I had some doubts about the durability of the included screws.
Cleaning and maintaining the mount is simple, requiring only occasional wiping with a cloth. However, the flawed design overshadows any positive aspects of durability and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount is designed to accommodate any scout scope with a Picatinny rail mounting system. I tested it with a Leupold VX-R IER scope, which is a popular choice for scout rifles.
Beyond the scope, there are no other real customization options for the mount itself. The only real accessory that enhances this product is a replacement set of higher quality screws. The mount is theoretically compatible with various Picatinny-mounted accessories, but the inherent inaccuracy limits the usefulness of these additions.
Pros and Cons of XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount
Pros
- Solid construction and durable materials.
- Aesthetically pleasing matte black finish.
- Compatible with a wide range of Picatinny-mounted scout scopes.
Cons
- Poor fitment results in an angled rail, hindering accuracy.
- Easily stripped mounting screws.
- Does not provide a stable or reliable platform for mounting optics.
Who Should Buy XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount?
This product is perfect for someone looking for a scout mount if they are prepared to potentially modify it significantly to correct the angled rail issue.
Anyone looking for a drop-in, ready-to-use scout mount for their Mossberg 464 should avoid this product due to the reported fitment issues.
A must-have modification would be to replace the included screws with higher-quality alternatives. Shimming the rail to correct the angle might also be necessary.
Conclusion on XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount
Overall, the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount is a disappointing product. While the construction and materials are adequate, the critical fitment issues render it largely unusable without significant modification.
The price of $68.48 is not justified given the inherent flaws in the design. I cannot personally recommend this product in its current form.
My final thought is that the XS Sight Systems Lever Scout Mount has potential, but it needs significant refinement to address the fitment issues. Unless XS Sight Systems addresses these problems, I would advise lever-action enthusiasts to seek alternative scout mounting solutions.