7 Best Quick Detach Scope Mounts [Scope Rings & Mounts]

best quick detach scope mount

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Are you searching for a quick detach (QD) scope mount? Perhaps you have heard of QD mounts but have no idea what they are, or what purpose they serve. In this article, I will be covering the uses, features, history, and offering a selection of the best QD mounts on the market today. Let's get into it.

Quick detach scope mounts, abbreviated QD mounts, are a mounting option for scopes varying in size and function. As we all know, when you purchase a scope of any type it does not come with the hardware necessary to attach the scope to your gun of choice.

PRODUCT

DETAILS

Products

BEST FOR ANY RIFLE

Burris P.E.P.R. QD Scope Mount

Burris P.E.P.R. QD Scope Mount

  • Diameter: 1 in
  • Finish: Matte
  • Type: Pair
BEST FOR DURABILITY

Warne 1 Inch QD rings

Warne 1 Inch QD rings

  • Diameter: 1 in
  • Finish: Matte
  • Type: Quick Release Rings
BEST FOR RESISTANCE

American Defense AD-RECON Scope Optic Mount

American Defense AD-RECON Scope Optic Mount

  • Diameter: 34 mm
  • Finish: T3 Mil-Spec Anodize
  • Type: Picatinny Rails
BEST FOR EYE RELIEF

Vortex Optics Precision Extended Cantilever 30mm Riflescope Mount

Vortex Optics Precision Extended Cantilever 30mm Riflescope Mount

  • Diameter: 30 mm
  • Finish: Type 3 Mil-Spec Anodized
  • Type: Picatinny Rails
BEST ACCURATE MOUNT

Leupold Quick Release (QR) Weaver-style Scope Rings

Leupold Quick Release (QR) Weaver-style Scope Rings

  • Diameter: 1 in
  • Finish: Matte
  • Type: Quick Release
BEST FOR DURABILITY

Midwest Industries 30mm QD Scope Mount

Midwest Industries 30mm QD Scope Mount

  • Diameter: 12mm
  • Finish: Black Finish
  • Type: Picatinny
BEST FOR RELIABILITY

Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount Extended With 30mm Rings

Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount Extended 30mm Rings

  • Diameter: 30mm
  • Finish: Type 3 Hard coat black anodizing
  • Type: Extended

As a consumer, you have many options as to which type of mount you will use to mount your optic to your gun. In most cases, how your chosen gun is already outfitted is how you decide. For example, my Ruger PC carbine came with Picatinny rails already mounted, and my 6.5 Creedmoor came with no mounts so I ordered dovetail mounts.

With differing objectives of function, comes the different choices in design for mounting. There are one-piece mounts, scope rings, and other options that are all dependent on your usage and application. The unique aspect of a QD mount is that you can utilize the function of a QD mount with any scope mount function you choose.

For example, scope rings and one-piece mounts can both utilize a quick detach mount platform. The idea for the quick detach mount system originated when gun scopes and sights were not as strongly built as they are today. The ideology was that if your sight were to fail, you would be able to quickly detach the sight, and use your iron sights as a solid backup.

With the advancement of scopes now in 2021, even the most budget-friendly scopes are unlikely to fail. With this in mind, what purpose do QD mounts serve? Continue reading to learn more about QD mounts and their purpose in the common era.

5 Things to Consider When Choosing a QD Mount:

1. Size

QD mounts can be had in various sizes and lengths. Size and length are dependent on the objective lens diameter of the scope you intend to mount. In general, there are three different size or height mounts. There are low, medium, and high scope mount height options. Choosing a height depends on your shooting preferences and lens objective diameter.

A high mount is beneficial for shooters who enjoy shooting their iron sights in addition to, or in place of their scope. High mounts allow for clearance of iron sight visibility and give you the choice if you enjoy switching back and forth in your sight practice. High mounts are one of the quickest ways to switch between shooting iron and scope.

quick detach scope mounts

Medium height mounts are a popular option for scopes with a lens diameter of 42mm-45mm. A quick reference guide for choosing a height based on the objective lens diameter of your scopes is 40mm and below use a low mount, 42mm-45mm a medium mount, and 50mm and higher using a high mount.

For home defense, CQB, and 3 gun type of shooting you want to mount your scope as low as possible without it touching the barrel. Doing so aids in keeping your adjustments accurate and helps in ensuring you maintain your zero.

2. Weight

When you are out there humping weight, whether it is for hunting or combat applications, every ounce counts. Fatigue is the enemy of us all, and the more tools we have to attack it with the better off we are. Saving weight on equipment will mean you can shoot for longer, and enjoy your time out in nature for longer.

best quick disconnect scope mount

When choosing a QD mount, look for one that is as light as possible while maintaining the durability and structural integrity. After accuracy, the most important consideration for experienced shooters is the overall weight. Saving ounces where you can will lead to an overall weight decrease, but can also translate to enabling you to carry more on items that matter aka water.

Weight is greatly determined by the quality of material the quick detach mount is made of. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for. A quality, lightweight QD mount is not going to come cheap. You want to ensure not only that the mount remains secure to your gun, but that once you use the quick release you maintain your zero.

3. Material Quality

Overall material quality matters when choosing a QD mount, but really what we are all thinking is; how well can it withstand the inevitable quick detach lever getting snagged on your range bag when either pulling it out for use or putting it into the bag?

Anything that can snag will and anything that can break will, especially the more you pay it seems. This is why when purchasing a QD mount you want to ensure you are buying a quality material mount. The majority of QD mounts you find on the market are going to be different grades of aluminum.

detachable scope mount

Aluminum is great because it is light-weight and durable. You need the ability to shoot a couple of hundred rounds without having to re-zero. You also need something that won't bend, warp, or flex under pressure or weight from other items in your range bag.

Odds are, you won't be using your QD every time you go to the range. You want your QD mount to be able to tolerate rough road trips, and the inevitable snag on range days. Aluminum is capable of withstanding knocks and scrapes and is overall the best material for a QD scope mount.

Aluminum also provides longevity of life, not all QD mounts are made of Aluminum, so make sure the one you purchase is.

4. Operation

The purpose of a QD scope is to detach your scope quickly and smoothly, but also to be rock-solid and reliable when it comes time to shoot. There is no purpose in having a QD mount if you have to re-zero or if it falls off while walking through the woods. You should only be making high-quality QD purchases.

After reading this article, you have all of the necessary information to make a wise QD purchase. The QD mount you choose should be smooth in operation. The mount should detach quickly and easily but also have a robust lever system and fasten down tight when you are shooting.

quick release scope mounts

Not all QD scopes are created equal, and some are better at maintaining their zero when being reattached than others. Your scope mount should be easily adjustable and offer forward and rearward movement to provide ample eye relief. The proper QD mount will benefit you by aiding in accuracy and stability while shooting.

The best quick detach mounts are good at maintaining their purpose through a proper operation. It sounds simple because it is. The best mounts are ones that perform their jobs efficiently, end of story. It can be difficult to find a QD mount that provides all of the features I mentioned, but I am here to help and also why I developed this list of the best single and full QD mounts to fit your individual needs.

5. Price

When looking to buy a quick detach mount, you have to consider, of course, the price you are willing to pay. Keeping in mind that you will end up paying more for higher quality materials, and better warranty plans. There are some metaphorical dollar signs attached to the name brand association as well, but I am of the opinion that the majority of the big-name brands earned those extra dollar signs.

When considering what you are willing to pay for a QD mount consider how often you will be using your QD mount and what task you will be using a QD mount for. Is this a QD mount for having fun on the weekends at the range? Are you looking for a mount just to hold your favorite scope so you can try it out on all of your favorite rifles?

Or are you looking for a mount to take hunting in the backcountry and need to make sure it will rough it out with you? Whatever your reasoning for seeking a QD mount, you will find a representative of an answer here in this article. Keep in mind while reading that you will pay more for higher quality material, lesser overall weight, functionality, ability to hold a zero and warranty.

Here are the best quick detach scope mounts on the market today.

7 Best Quick Detach Scope Mounts

1. Burris P.E.P.R. QD Scope Mount

qd scope mount

Burris is a strong name in the hunting riflescope world. It only makes sense that Burris also offers QD mounts for their high-quality rifle scopes. The Burris P.E.P.R QD scope mount is a matte black full-size mount offering you the ability to try your favorite scope on all of your rifles.

P.E.P.R stands for, “Proper Eye Position Ready.” With the ability to mount almost any riflescope, the Burris P.E.P.R includes Picatinny rail uppers and two inches of forwarding scope positioning offering excellent eye relief. A great QR mount for your AR builds, providing the necessary clearance and repeatability.

Paired with Burris’s, “Forever Warranty” Burris will repair or replace with no questions asked, no warranty card, no receipt, and covers any future owners which are about as ironclad as it gets. Not only are you receiving a quality product, but a product you never have to worry about replacing.

The Burris P.E.P.R scope mount weighs in at 8.7 ounces and is made of high-quality Aluminum. With the ability to mount extra accessories on top of the mount via the provided Picatinny rail system, this is the author’s choice quick detach mount.

Burris P.E.P.R. QD Scope Mount

The price of Burris P.E.P.R. QD Scope Mount varies, so check the latest price at

2. Warne 1 Inch QD rings

qd scope rings

February 1991 Jack Warne founded Warne Manufacturing Company with the intention of designing, manufacturing, and marketing a quick detachable scope mounting system. Jack started with a desire to serve the common recreational shooter and hunter.

Jack chose the scope mounting game as it did not prove to have as many regulations and hoops to jump through as manufacturing of rifles or other guns. Luckily for us, Jack knew what he was doing and we get to enjoy the fruits of his labor through Warne QD rings.

The Warne 1 Inch QD ring is made from steel and comes in a low matte black color with a return to zero guarantee. Guaranteeing that no matter how many times you decide to detach your optic, the rings will remain rock-solid and prevent you from having to re-zero. Indexable quick-release lever system allows for customizable lever positions which is a huge bonus.

The Warne 1 inch QD mounting system is a low height system at 0.250 inches and fits optics with an objective lens size of 20-36mm. Weighing in at 4.9 ounces, I would attest to the fact the Jack Warne stuck to his original intention of making high-quality QD mounting systems for the recreational shooter and hunter. 

Warne 1 Inch QD rings

The price of Warne 1 Inch QD rings varies, so check the latest price at

3. American Defense AD-RECON Scope Optic Mount

quick detach scope mount

The American Defense AD-RECON scope optic mount is made for putting high-power scopes onto a flat top style gun. The design and length of the mount push the scope out front, allowing you to gain great eye relief. 

The AD-RECON is made of T6 aluminum and features a QD auto lock lever system to accommodate the majority of rail systems. Made in the USA, this QD mount is also finished in 3-Mil spec hard anodize for a rock-solid finish. Essentially, American Defense as a company wants you to know that they built this mount to last a lifetime.

The quick-release lever on the AD-RECON is made of Titanium which ensures clamping to the rail system securely. Despite the levers being built of Titanium American Defense still found a way to ensure that the adjustments need no proprietary tools and can be adjusted by utilizing your fingers. 

Utilizing both Aluminum and Titanium shows American Defense’s attention to detail and concern for their customers. Having Titanium quick-release levers is a design feature for those, “pulling out of the backpack” moments.

Weighing in at 8.4 ounces, this QD mount is no slouch. The AD-RECON works with scopes with objective lens sizes up to 2.2 inches, and places your optic at 1.47 inches central height. The AD-RECON comes with a lifetime warranty and can be found on Amazon for a great price. 

American Defense AD-RECON Mount

American Defense AD-RECON Mount

The price of American Defense AD-RECON Mount varies, so check the latest price at

4. Vortex Optics Precision Quick-Release Extended Cantilever 30mm Riflescope Mount

30mm quick release scope mount

If you have read any other scope or optic review I have ever written you will know that Vortex is my absolute favorite brand in everything they do. Really, my admiration comes from personal experience with their VIP warranty, but I always go into so much detail that I will skip it for this review. (It's an amazing warranty and covers everything)

This QD mount from Vortex Optics also just so happens to be the highest-priced option on our list today, but for a good reason. Built for mounting 30mm tubes, the Vortex mount is designed with an extended cantilever for ultimate eye relief and head position. Having the extended cantilever design helps fatigue from becoming an issue while shooting.

Available in a 2-inch offset, this Vortex QD mount comes in a 3 mil-spec anodized matte black finish and is built with T6 Aluminum right here in the USA. Available for purchase through Amazon, the price point for this mount comes from its accuracy, and ability to not lose your zero.

Read our article on m14 optic mount by Hunting Mark.

This QD mount positions the center of your riflescope tube exactly 37mm from the base and is judged based on doing common things in the best way. At 8.9 ounces, this is the heaviest QD mount on the list. From backcountry hunting to a day at the range, the Vortex Optics Precision Quick-Release Extended Cantilever 30mm Riflescope Mount is what I choose to mount.

Vortex Optics Precision Quick-Release Mount

Vortex Optics Precision Quick-Release Mount

The price of Vortex QR Mount varies, so check the latest price at

5. Leupold Quick Release (QR) Weaver-Style Scope Rings

quick release scope mount

Leupold did something right with these QR Weaver-style scope rings in that they allow you to choose the size and height you desire. Leupold offers these QD scope rings in both 1 inch and 30mm and in a low, medium, or high height for both size options. This is a great offer from Leupold as they are catering to all customers instead of restricting the heights and sizes.

Made from steel, these QR scope rings are designed to match up with cross-slot bases which enhances the stability of your optic and makes the installation process easier. These scope rings utilize a forward and down locking direction, ensuring your zero remains firm.

Due to the variation in options with this QR scope rings from Leupold, the weight varies with size and height. Complete with Leupold’s lifetime guarantee.

Leupold Quick Release Weaver-Style Scope Rings

The price of Leupold Quick Release Weaver-Style Scope Rings varies, so check the latest price at

6. Midwest Industries 30mm QD Scope Mount

30mm quick detach scope mount

Crafted from hard-coated anodized Aluminum, this QD mount from Midwest Industries is built to withstand the corrosiveness of the elements. Rock-solid versatility is what comes to mind when I think of Midwest Industries. Made proudly in the United States this mount comes complete with a hard coat anodized matte finish.

Durability to withstand hundreds of rounds, and hundreds of miles of backpacking through the wilderness, this QD mount could truly last you a lifetime. With an amazing return to zero rate, you can trust that this mount will keep your aim true on every shot. This QD mount is also fully adjustable without tools, making field adjustments a breeze.

The Midwest Industries QD mount has great clamping ability, allowing for fitment to rails of all types including non-Mil-Spec tolerant rails. Even with great clamping ability, this QD mount does not nick or scratch the rail surface. This QD mount has extremely smooth QD levers and a lifetime warranty through Midwest Industries.

With seven models to choose from, the Midwest Industries QD mount ranges from 7.5 ounces to 8.7 ounces depending on your configuration. Offering various models is a great way that Midwest Industries stays a powerful player in the QD mounting realm. At the top end, the Midwest Industries QD mount can accommodate a 56mm objective lens size.

Midwest Industries 30mm QD Scope Mount

Midwest Industries 30mm QD Scope Mount

The price of Midwest Industries 30mm QD Scope Mount varies, so check the latest price at

7. Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount Extended 30mm Rings

best qd scope mounts

Last, and certainly not least on our list is the Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount with 30mm rings. Available in 0 or 20 MOA cant, this is an example of a premium quality QR mount. As you can tell by the picture, this QR mount is unique in our series as it is the only mount with two scope rings and a single throw lever system.

This unique lever system is called the BLAC lever system. The BLAC lever system requires no manual adjustment to attain a proper, rock-solid attachment to a 1913 picatinny rail mount. Similar in build quality to the other premium-priced mounts on our list, this Bobro QR mount is made of T6 Aluminum, and is finished in type 3 hard coat matte black anodized finish.

The Bobro QD mounting system is a heavy-duty zero-repeatable optic mount that can be utilized on a multitude of shooting platforms. Weighing in at 7.5 ounces, this is our lightest heavy-duty premium-priced mount. Made proudly in the USA, Bobro will repair any factory defects upon delivery.

Honestly, the Bobro QD mounting system would have been my mount of choice but the warranty offered is weak compared to the price. The other mounts in the same price range had way better warranties, and I have come to expect a great warranty with a pricer product. I think we all have.

Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount Extended 30mm Rings

The price of Bobro Engineering Precision Optic Mount Extended 30mm Rings varies, so check the latest price at

Parting Shots:

Choosing a quick detach mount can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be. After reading this article you now know what makes QD mounts important, how to utilize them properly, and most importantly, how to choose one that matches your needs.

No matter your choice in a quick detach mount, ensure you purchase a QR mount that has matching scope mount dimensions. With my list of hand-picked options and the “things to consider” portion of this article don't forget to save the quick reference guide: low mount 40mm and below, medium mount 42mm-45mm, and high mount 50mm and above for your records.

High-quality quick detachable systems are not hard to find if you know what you are looking for. At the end of the day what truly matters is the size, weight, material, operation, and budget you have for your desired quick detach mount. 

Be picky about your mount selection as it can have a huge impact on your accuracy and enjoyment. I hope that this article was useful for you and that you enjoy the QR mount you end up purchasing.

Which QD mounting system did you like best? Are any of the choices mentioned in today’s article a quick detach mount you are considering purchasing? Let us know in the comment section below which QD system was your favorite!

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