To some of us, a scope mount may seem fairly inconsequential. However, there is an extensive market for this item. The need to release your scope quickly for any reason is vital, especially when hunting.
While looking for the best QD scope mounts, we considered seven of the best available. There are many considerations to take into account, with what at first appears to be a very simple piece of equipment.
The price points between the mounts are quite varied. What you get for what you pay is an important factor. Our review will help you get what you need for a price that suits your budget and overall needs.
So, let’s get to it, staring with the…
Contents
- 1 Top 7 Best QD Scope Mounts Reviews
- 1.1 1 Burris Optics P.E.P.R. Scope Mount – Best Quick Detach QD Scope Mount
- 1.2 2 Warne 1 Inch Quick Detach Rings Medium Matte 201LM – Best Steel QD Scope Mount
- 1.3 3 UTG 30mm/2PCs Hi Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings – Best Budget QD Scope Mount
- 1.4 4 American Defense AD-RECON 30 STD Riflescope Optic Mount – Best Cantilever QD Scope Mount
- 1.5 5 Larue Tactical QD Cantilever Scope Mount – LT104 – Best Premium AR15 QD Scope Mount
- 1.6 6 Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount 30mm Rings – Best BLAC lever QD Scope Mounts
- 1.7 7 Steiner AR-15 P-Series Cantilever Mount – Best Affordable QD Scope Mount
- 2 Best QD Scope Mounts Buying Guide
- 3 So, what are the Best QD Scope Mounts?
Top 7 Best QD Scope Mounts Reviews
1
Burris Optics P.E.P.R. Scope Mount – Best Quick Detach QD Scope Mount
Our first product is a tried and true model from Burris Optics. Those of you with experience know all about Burris Optics’ reputation for quality products. The P.E.P.R. is no exception and better known by shooters as PEPPER.
Let’s have a closer look at its qualities.
P.E.P.R.
This is an abbreviation and stands for Proper Eye Position Ready. Knowing the importance of target acquisition and shot placement, this mount has been designed with that in mind.
Attach and detach
Undoubtedly, it’s most commented-on attribute is the ability to attach, detach, and hold zero. No matter how many times you perform this action, it’s reliability is very good.
Cantilever
The PEPR offers cantilevering. This means it can be easily adjusted for moving the scope forward for added eye-relief, in this case, two inches.
It will attach to any Picatinny or Weaver rail, and shooters have found it one of the best mounts for an AR.
Security is excellent
Following the instructions on the pack, Blue Loctite the ring screws and adjust to 20 in-lbs. This scope mount will easily withstand a great deal of recoil without budging a millimeter. It comes with railed and smooth ring tops, giving it extra versatility in mounting other add-ons.
Specifications:
- Item model number: 410344
- Dimensions: 7.2 x 2.5 x 0.2 in
- Distance between rings: 2 ⅛ in
- Mount Size: 30mm or 1 in
- Weight 30mm: 8.7 oz
- Weight: 8.3 oz
- Design for rail: Weaver or Picatinny
- Top rings: Smooth or Picatinny
- Material: Aircraft aluminum
- Finish: Black
Pros
- Mounting and unmounting holds zero.
- Reliable manufacturing.
- Generous forward scope positioning.
- Versatile mounting options.
- Railed ring tops.
- Can add a laser, etc.
Cons
- A little on the heavy side
- Not so good for bolt actions.
2
Warne 1 Inch Quick Detach Rings Medium Matte 201LM – Best Steel QD Scope Mount
If you need a set of 1-inch QD rings, this excellent offering is next up in our QD scope mounts reviews. It’s a slightly different approach here in that it is made of steel. You may think it will not be as reliable as aluminum, but it meets the requirements of our list.
Many shooters are attracted by this scope’s strength and durability of the steel used. Owners also comment on their reliability and strength in the rough and tumble of hunting.
Rock-solid zero, and then some…
Mounting is straightforward and simple, and the two-piece design means it is marginally lighter than a uni-design mount. When mounting, the fitting you will find holds zero easily.
What Warne calls its indexable lever system will maintain zero continuously. Shot after shot or frequent attachment and detachment from your rifle will not affect this. Taking the mount off for cleaning your gun just means the same phenomenon.
Reattach it, and your zero is still there…
This also applies to the top center screws. Having leveled your scope’s reticle and while tightening the screws, the level will maintain constantly.
All in all, this is a nicely finished product that will provide you with many satisfying hours of use.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Warne
- Model: 201LM
- Dimensions: 0.9 x 6.15 x 4.55 in
- Ring height: Med .375 in
- Quick detach: 1 in
- Weight: 6.8 oz
- Material: Steel
- Finish: Matte Black
Pros
- The Lever system is indexable.
- Stainless steel recoil control key
- Simple and secure to mount.
- Will hold zero throughout changes.
Cons
- A two-piece unit is not quite as good as a one-piece.
- Fine adjustment needs a tool.
3
UTG 30mm/2PCs Hi Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings – Best Budget QD Scope Mount
The price is right…
UTG for Under the Gun has been making quality shooting gear, scopes in particular, since the ’80s. The fascinating history of this company is well worth taking a look at in your own time. Some shooters have been wary of just how little they cost. This in no way reflects the quality built into their products.
UTG does outsource some of its manufacturing overseas. However, the lightweight and light in price Pro scope rings are proudly made in America and assembled in Michigan. UTG’s Hi Pro line Picatinny QD rings have everything you need in this small but important piece of equipment. They are not only among the best QD scope rings but also among the cheapest.
What’s to know…
The Hi-Pro LE Grade QD rings are made from high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum. Anodized in matte black, they have a great look and feel. More importantly, they do the job good QD rings are designed for. Such as the reliability of detaching and attaching while keeping your zero-point intact.
The 30mm clamps will lockdown over your scope, securely held by four screws on each clamp.
Perfect adjustment…
The ease of unlocking the rings is facilitated by pressure adjustable levers. You can adjust the power you need to operate the levers to your preferred level. Great affordability, coupled with high quality and versatility, makes this solid UTG product a pleasure to recommend.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Leapers/UTG
- Model: RQ2W3224
- Dimensions: 4.57 x 2.2 x 1.81 inches
- Ring diam: 30mm
- Max Outer Diameter: 74mm
- Rail type: Picatinny and Weaver
- Total Weight: 7.5 oz
- Material: Aircraft Aluminum
- Finish: Matte Black.
Pros
- Top shaft quality.
- High-level field testing.
- Versatile system.
- Durable and well finished.
Cons
- 2-piece unit does not suit everyone.
4
American Defense AD-RECON 30 STD Riflescope Optic Mount – Best Cantilever QD Scope Mount
We move up in price somewhat for our next contender on our list of best QD scope mounts. It is still by no means the most expensive quick-release mechanism in this market, and it could even be the Best Value for the Money QD Scope Mount you can buy.
You just get a few more bells and whistles with this excellently crafted masterpiece, which will go the distance. The cantilever design of this model is specifically suited for flat-top AR15s.
Flexibility, plus…
The AD-RECON 30 will fit riflescopes having up to a 56mm objective lens diameter. That makes it very flexible in terms of attaching it to various scopes. If you need to place a high-powered scope atop your flat-top weapon, then this is an obvious choice to consider.
Reaching for a bit more quality in the materials, the auto-lock lever system is of solid crafted titanium. It adapts perfectly to within spec or off-spec rails, and the lock will operate either at the rear or front of the unit. The cantilever nature of the design positions the scope out front creating more eye relief.
Durability, plus…
Rock-solid in construction, there is only one word of warning. Take care as to just how hard you tighten the unit; it can bite into the rail.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: American Defense
- Model: AD-RECON 30 STD
- Rail type: Fits all systems
- Total Weight: 8.4 oz Material: 6061-T6 aluminum
- Auto-Lock: Titanium
- Finish: T3 Mil-Spec Anodized.
Features:
- Cantilever design for optimal eye relief.
- QD Auto Lock Lever system.
- Mach6061-T6 aluminum.
- Hardcoat anodized finish.
- Places optics at 1.47” central height.
- Fully adjustable.
- Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Pros
- Made to last.
- A quality step above the competition.
- Significant rail clearance.
- Suits larger magnification scopes.
- Adjustable to any rail.
- No proprietary tools are required.
Cons
- This quality comes at a price.
5
Larue Tactical QD Cantilever Scope Mount – LT104 – Best Premium AR15 QD Scope Mount
Larue has given shooters a long history of high-quality models. If you are new to looking at this sort of product, you will notice the price point. With a little investigation, you’ll know that Larue products consistently hit the mark in giving value for the money.
The LT104 QD Cantilever Scope Mount offers flexible variations on what a shooter is looking for. It has a place here on our list of QD scope mounts.
A new clamping technique…
The LT 104 is another mount that is specifically designed to fit on your flat-top AR-15. This model has at least one unique feature that sets it apart. So, let’s look at the details.
VFZ™ is a new clamping technique for fitting to MIL-STD-1913 rails. Rather than using a cross-bolt, Larue goes vertical. Without going too deep into the tech specs, this gives the mount an incredibly secure base. Once fitted, the mount will take a lot of abuse in the field. This mount connects to the rail so strongly that repeated connections can take the finish off the rail.
Is there more?
When detaching and reattaching, you will get a guaranteed return to zero. When reattaching, it’s a simple matter to follow the index marks to repeat the same tension.
Yes. This mount offers the shooter a wide variety of scopes that it normally can take. You get a nice throw-forward for eye relief and a great level for perfect cheek-weld. This is one of the more sophisticated and robust mounts on the market.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Larue
- Model: LT 104
- Mount type: VFZ™
- Mounting surface: 4-inch
- Ring Sizes: 1”, 30 – 34 – 35mm
- Cantilever: 1.87 inches
- Total Weight: 6.9 oz Material: Bar stock aluminum
- Finish: Hardcoat Anodized
What’s in the package?
- Spare set mounting screws.
- Wrench.
- Clear instructions.
Pros
- High-quality manufacturing.
- Robust.
- Innovative design.
- Efficient cantilever.
- Does not need lapping.
- Fast locking levers.
- Will hold zero consistently.
Cons
- Expensive.
6
Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount 30mm Rings – Best BLAC lever QD Scope Mounts
Bobro is another manufacturer with a rock-solid reputation for engineering quality. It’s also on the pricey end of the market. But we have to say again, with this, you get what you pay for, and what you get is very good. There will be no regrets in this choice.
The Precision Optic Mount 30mm Rings (B03-200-300) is beautifully crafted and has to be included on our QD scope mounts list. There is more than one set-apart attraction designed into this mount.
Let’s look at the details…
With good quality materials and fine engineering, this model is gentle on your rails. You can attach and detach this mount as often as you like, while not creating any indents or damage. That includes polymer and all other rail types.
Attachment and reattachment, while using Bobro’s BLAC lever system, is speedy, light, and very secure. What you will appreciate is that the mount will auto-index to your gun’s rails. No adjustment is needed. There is a need to spend time looking for a tool because this mount does it for you.
A rock-solid platform…
You can unmount this unit easily under almost any conditions and reattach it just as easily. No matter how many times you do that, it will retain your zero settings indefinitely and with perfect accuracy.
Once in place, you can expect rock-solid platforming. The Bobro is easily locked, without any need for de-attaching. This is as rapid a disengagement as you can get. Above all, this unit is reliable and easy to use. One of the best in its class.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Bobro
- Model: B03200300
- Optic Type: 30mm
- Rai type: Works on all rails
- Mounting: Bobro Blac Lever System
- Ring width: .86 inch
- Total Weight: 7.5 oz
- Material: 6061 T6 aluminum
- Finish: Mil-spec type III.
Pros
- High-quality construction.
- Easy to adjust without tools.
- Quick attachment.
- Very solid.
- Smooth hassle-free reconnections.
Cons
- Higher price.
7
Steiner AR-15 P-Series Cantilever Mount – Best Affordable QD Scope Mount
If the previous two products strain your budget a bit, the Steiner AR-15 P-Series Cantilever mounts could be the answer. They are still very worthy of being on our list of the finest QD Scope mounts.
Steiner has produced a quality mount that is light, easy to install, functions beautifully, and delivers the goods. You still get an excellent product at a more affordable price.
One similar product…
Steiner also produces this model as the T-series, which is almost identical and has an additional bubble level on the top of the rear ring. This is handy if you want to fine-tune it. You still get a mount that is simple to install. You still get the ease of detaching and reattaching while maintaining zero.
Technically sound and easy operation…
Everything you want is here in this model. It has an excellent build-design and requires simple adjustments to get dialed in. The cantilever design will deliver perfect eye relief for flat-top platforms and the AR-15.
Priced to suit a slimmer wallet, the P-Series does not compromise at all on quality, simplicity of installation, and reliability. At the end of the day, you also have the backing of being made in America and the company’s Heritage Warranty. That’s a good sign of a company’s excellent commitment to its products and customer service.
Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Steiner
- Model: P-Series
- To Fit: 30 – 34mm scopes
- Mounting: Cantilever
- Compatibility: Any Picatinny Style
- Ring Top Torque: 20 in-lb
- Crossbolt Torque: 65 in-lb
- #5973: 30mm diameter, 36 mm height
- #5974: 34mm diameter, 36 mm height
- Material: High-grade aluminum
- Stock Key x1
- Warranty: Steiner Lifetime Heritage Warranty.
Pros
- High-quality construction.
- Ease of use.
- Versatile.
- Perfect for your AR-15 or flat top.
Cons
- None to note.
Best QD Scope Mounts Buying Guide
Next, we go into some things to consider while deciding on which QD scope mount to buy. Factors will include quality, construction materials, height and weight, and suitability for your weapon of choice.
What is too Cheap?
As far as manufacturing standards go, all models used in our reviews meet up with acceptable standards, even with the cheaper ones. There are some models on the market, such as the UTG, that are surprisingly inexpensive.
In this case, we have sourced the UTG product because the company has a long-standing ethos of value for money. The price, in this case, does not indicate a lack of quality.
All the scope rings used will have good manufacturing standards and offer acceptable results. It’s just really a matter of budget and suitability.
Flexibility and Size
If you’re in the habit of changing the scopes you use, then you need to consider its adaptability. Flexibility refers to how high the mount will sit. That height will give the shooter the option of using the scope or your gun’s iron sights. This is useful when switching between close-range and long-range targets, with no need to remove the scope.
It takes a little bit of time to get used to switching between the scope and the iron sights. If you do go for this option, remember this while you are practicing. On the other hand, if you predominantly use your optic only, your choice could be a low QD mount. In this case, you only need to clear the rifle.
How interchangeable is the Mount?
If, when out hunting, you like to change your weapon, a mount that fits is a good choice. Then you won’t need different mounts. You may pay a little more for this option. If you are a single weapon owner, you will not have to make this choice.
Affecting its interchangeability will be the release clips. It would be wise to see that the power needed to release the clips suits your hands and fingers. Some are designed to be stronger than others. Most release clips are already designed to hold tight enough and are flush enough that they won’t get hooked on clothing.
The lighter the action of the clip will affect how smooth and speedy the interchange is.
The Cantilever
This is a term used to describe the functionality of your mount when it comes to moving it backward or forward. This is a great feature when you want to create more eye relief and increase your field of view. This applies no matter what scope or optic you are using, and helps in creating rapid eye comfort.
This will apply as well to your eye relief when using a more powerful rifle. This leads to another feature you should keep in mind.
Recoil Resistance
You want, and need, your mount to hold zero while you are shooting repeatedly, especially with a higher-powered rifle. In this case, all mounts featured in this review offer this capability. This need also applies to attaching and reattaching a mount. Many mounts will have this capacity.
Weight Factor
You may look at this as superfluous information, as it can depend on how big and strong you are. What may seem like a lightweight component at the beginning of the day may feel heavier as time goes on. That fatigue can easily affect your efficiency and accuracy. So each ounce counts.
Manufacturing Materials and Overall Build Quality
The majority of scope mounts are made from aluminum. There are varying grades of this light and easily machined material. Most will suffice. At least one of the products We’ve reviewed here is made from steel, which some hunters like for the added strength.
Normally, aluminum will deliver all the qualities you need regarding weight and strength. Some shooters using more powerful refiles may have a preference for aircraft-grade aluminum.
What about Warping?
The challenge for manufacturers has been to provide products that do not warp or bend following continued usage. QD mounts are faced with more stress in this regard than mounts that are permanently attached. This again applies to heavy recoil weapons.
Take note of comments attached to reviews regarding a mount’s ability to hold zero. All our mounts reviewed are efficient in this regard, but it’s something to look out for.
How much does it Cost?
The type of mount you want and the demands you will put on your weapon will reflect in the cost department. The number of times you want to change your optics will also affect this.
You can expect that a QD mount is going to be more expensive than a fixed one.
A good QD scope is an excellent investment. Comparing QD mounts, you will also note that they can cost very little or up to around $200 and more. Once again, it comes down to your individual needs and your capacity to pay for them.
Looking for superb Scope options?
If so, check out our in-depth reviews of the Best Scout Scope, the Best Scope for Deer Hunting, the Best Air Rifle Scopes, the Best Air Rifle Scopes, or the Best Scope for Mini 14 Rifle currently on the market.
Or how about the Best Scopes for .30-06 Springfield, the Best 1000 Yard Scopes, the Best Long Range Rifle Scopes, the Best 1-6x Scope, the Best Scope for Savage 220, or the Best Scope for .22-250 you can buy in 2024.
So, what are the Best QD Scope Mounts?
When you’re looking for the convenience of a quality QD scope mount, there is plenty to choose from. Our reviews have included mounts with a vast price variance. What is notable is that, although each has different specs, the quality throughout our selection is very high, no matter which one you choose.
Here are our top picks.
For low budget seekers, it’s the…
UTG 30mm/2PCs Hi Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings: 22mm Wide
In the upper price range, the…
Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount 30mm Rings (B03-200-300) – Best BLAC lever QD Scope Mounts
…will bring home the bacon, or the deer.
If you’re looking for one in the middle to the pricy range, go for the…
The quality is high. And it’s a flexible, beautifully designed mount that should give a long life of mounting satisfaction.
We hope this review has proven helpful for learning about and choosing the very best of the Best QD Scope Mounts for your needs.
Happy mounting and shooting.