Choosing the right low power variable optic (LPVO) mount can be a crucial factor in achieving optimal performance with your firearm.
Whether you’re a professional shooter or an enthusiastic amateur, your choice of mount will directly influence your accuracy, aiming stability, and overall user experience.
This article aims to guide you through the most highly-recommended LPVO mounts available on the market, evaluating their features, durability, and ease of installation. Let’s explore the options that can help you elevate your shooting game.
Things To Consider When Choosing LPVO Mount
When you’re on the hunt for the perfect LPVO mount, several variables come into play that could greatly affect your experience. First on the list is weight.
Lighter mounts made of materials like aluminium are often more comfortable, especially for long sessions of shooting or hunting.
However, make sure the lightness doesn’t compromise the mount’s durability and effectiveness in maintaining accuracy and precision.
Optics are the next point to consider. If you’re using a sophisticated telescopic sight or a simple red dot sight, you need a mount that complements your optics rather than hinders them.
Similarly, eye relief—how far your eye needs to be from the scope to see the entire field of view—can also be influenced by the type of mount you choose.
Make sure you have enough room between the optic and your eye, without putting stress on your neck.
Cantilever mounts offer the ability to push your optic further forward, offering greater eye relief and a more comfortable shooting position.
However, these might not be suitable for every type of firearm. For example, what works well on a Colt AR-15 may not be as effective on a pistol.
Price is often a big deciding factor. While it may be tempting to save money by opting for a cheaper mount, remember that a lower price might mean a compromise in quality.
Consider this an investment; spending a little more money now could save you from accuracy issues or malfunctions later. It’s always good to allocate a certain percentage of your budget for a reliable scope mount.
Firearm compatibility is another critical consideration. Not all mounts are universal; some are designed specifically for rifles, while others are meant for pistols.
Compatibility extends to the Picatinny rail or any other receiver (firearms) mechanisms, so ensure that your chosen mount fits snugly and securely to your weapon.
For those who will be using the mount for specialized purposes like hunting in North Carolina’s diverse terrain, or participating in low-power broadcasting shooting events, the choice of mount becomes even more critical.
Similarly, if you are a tactical shooter, specific mounts are designed for quick minute and second of arc adjustments, offering the most efficient experience possible.
While it might seem like an afterthought, additional features like a kickstand for stability can also make a significant difference. This feature may not be necessary for everyone, but for those who require it, it can be a real game-changer.
So, as you navigate through the options, keep these factors in mind to make the most informed choice. It will influence not just your shooting experience but also the longevity and reliability of your entire setup.
Best Lpvo Mount
Unity Tactical FST-S30205B Fast – LPVO Mount
When considering options for low power variable optic (LPVO) mounts, the Unity Tactical FST-S30205B Fast – LPVO Mount – 30mm offers some unique features that make it a viable alternative to popular choices like Badger LPVO mounts.
In this review, we’ll explore this product in depth, evaluating its performance and design.
Unity Tactical is known for its innovative approaches, and the FAST series LPVO mount continues that trend. Built to offer a quicker sight picture than standard mounts, this model has a heightened optical centerline.
This feature caters especially to those who wear electronic ear protection, communication headsets, night vision goggles, or even gas masks and plate carriers during shooting or tactical exercises.
This taller optical centerline provides for faster and easier reticle acquisition, making this mount particularly useful in high-stress environments.
The material used for this mount is not specified as aluminum or steel, which is a detail you’ll find in other premium mounts like Badger series mounts.
However, the mechanical style of the mount adds to its structural integrity, which has a notable impact on its performance. The mounting type is integral, ensuring a stable and secure fit to your firearm.
It’s worth noting that this Unity Tactical mount supports an eye relief of 3 inches, providing ample room for comfortable shooting stances and improving the overall shooting experience.
However, it does not offer night vision support, which is a feature often sought after by tactical shooters or those engaging in low-light conditions.
While Badger LPVO mounts offer a robust range of features and premium materials, the Unity Tactical FST-S30205B offers an edge in terms of optical centerline height, which enhances usability under specific conditions.
So, if you often find yourself wearing additional tactical gear or communication devices, this mount could be particularly beneficial for you.
Pros:
- Heightened Centerline
- Stable Mounting
Cons:
- Expensive
Swampfox Hostile Engagement Mount
When it comes to LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) mounts, the marketplace is swarming with options. While many are familiar with Badger LPVO mounts, the Swampfox Hostile Engagement Mount warrants a close look for anyone in need of a reliable, well-crafted mounting system for their 30mm tube optics. With this review, I aim to shed light on why this product is an investment worth considering.
The Swampfox Hostile Engagement Mount is engineered from 7075-T6 Aluminum, a material renowned for its strength and durability.
This high-grade aluminum construction is complimented by a scratch-resistant hardcoat oxidized finish, which further enhances its longevity.
In a head-to-head comparison, the 7075-T6 Aluminum gives the mount an edge over competitors that may use inferior materials.
What distinguishes the Swampfox mount from its counterparts, including the Badger series, is its versatility and thoughtful design.
For instance, it accommodates a forward offset of 2 inches from the front of the mount to the centerline of the front ring. This allows for generous eye relief, a feature particularly beneficial for scopes like the Tomahawk and Arrowhead.
Moreover, it has a built-in 45-degree RMR footprint, allowing for easy integration with an offset back-up red dot sight like the Kingslayer, Liberty, or Justice.
The security of the mount is another standout feature. Instead of thumb nuts, the Swampfox mount employs T25 torx bolts.
These, combined with integrated recoil lugs, ensure a stable and secure setup. This translates into consistent accuracy and precision when you’re out hunting or shooting.
It’s also worth mentioning that the mount is compatible with Picatinny rails, making it a suitable option for a broad range of firearms.
Another functional attribute worth mentioning is the mount’s centerline height of 1.60 inches. This aligns well with standard and large frame rifles, allowing the optic reticle to sit just above the rifle iron sights.
It is important to note that rifles with stocks located lower than the receiver rail may require an additional cheek piece for optimal eye alignment.
Though the Swampfox Hostile Engagement Mount brings a lot to the table, it is not without its limitations. It lacks support for night vision optics, a feature that tactical shooters may find essential and which is often available in other high-end mounts like some in the Badger series.
Pros:
- Versatile Design
- Robust Construction
Cons:
- Pricy
Aero Precision Ultralight 30MM Scope Mount
Aero Precision, a brand with a background in aerospace engineering, has a reputation for producing quality products that meet high tolerance levels.
The meticulousness in their manufacturing process is evident in this mount. Made from 6061 T6 extruded aluminum, it offers durability while keeping weight to a minimum at just 3.36 ounces.
The mount is designed for mil-spec upper receivers with 1913 Picatinny rails, adding to its versatility across various firearms.
One of its key features is the 2-inch eye relief it offers, thanks to the mounting rings being pushed forward by 2 inches. This enhances user comfort significantly and shows an understanding of practical field needs.
It is coated with a MIL-A-Type 3 black hard-coat anodize that adds to its durability, making it not just lightweight but also robust, a quality that can be hard to find.
The real-life application supports the technical specs. For instance, the mount’s three-screw system makes for a solid base. According to personal user experiences, it performs admirably with optics like the Vortex Crossfire II.
However, this three-screw system can also limit its position due to the joint between the receiver rail and the free-float handguard. This may restrict optimal eye relief in some setups, so it’s something to be aware of.
The mount’s performance in terms of holding zero after 200 rounds and remounting is commendable. It not only shows consistency but also reliability.
The star wrench tool that comes with the mount has also been praised as a useful addition, indicating thoughtful design from the manufacturer.
Compared to other market options, such as the Primary Arms AR15 Basic Scope Mount, Aero’s Ultralight mount comes out on top for being lightweight yet robust.
While Primary Arms’ mount may also be sturdy and less expensive, the weight advantage of Aero Precision’s offering could make a considerable difference during extended use.
In terms of price, it is competitive. The value you get outperforms many of the more expensive “fan-boy” products out there, delivering a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality.
In comparison to Badger LPVO mounts, Aero Precision’s Ultralight 30MM Scope Mount holds its own, especially when you factor in the cost and weight advantages.
It is also highly user-friendly, as evidenced by the zeroing and leveling ease reported by users. However, unlike some Badger mounts, this one doesn’t support night vision, which could be a deal-breaker for some tactical shooters.
In summary, Aero Precision has managed to incorporate their aerospace engineering expertise into creating a mount that offers both reliability and performance.
It provides a worthwhile alternative to more established brands like Badger, particularly for those who value lightness and durability.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons:
- Positioning Limitations
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering the best LPVO mount options on the market, the Unity Tactical FST-S30205B Fast – LPVO Mount – 30mm stands out for its unique set of features tailored for tactical shooters.
Its elevated optical centerline allows for quicker reticle acquisition, particularly for those using additional gear like electronic ear protection or communication headsets.
While it may not offer the material options or night vision compatibility found in some competitors, its stability and design make it a strong contender for anyone looking to optimize their shooting setup.