A solid mounting system is the bedrock of accuracy. Even if you get a $4,000 Reis optic, you will not be able to do much if your mounting system is crap. With a good mounting system, you ensure consistency and accuracy, hold adjustments, and prevent damage to your scope due to recoil. 

Cantilever scope mounts have quickly become a favorite for many shooters, and they have been credited as the best for setting up a stable, grounded, and solid mounting system for your rifle. But are they really as good as they say, and should you get a cantilever mount for your rifle? 

Before you make that decision, let's discuss everything you need to know about cantilever mounts.

What is a Cantilever Mount?

The word “cantilever” describes a rigid structure that extends horizontally, is unsupported only at one end, and is basically free-hanging on the other. A cantilever mount is a single-piece scope mount with rings that are moved forward from the mounting base, allowing your optic to be positioned farther ahead of the rail of your rifle.

The optic's position forward over the rifle explains why cantilever mounts have become an essential component for shooters who use modern sporting rifles, such as AR-15s. They allow you to position the scope exactly the way you need it for optimal eye relief and make use of the rail space that would have been unused.

Let's explore these features in detail and explain why this setup works.

Key Features of a Cantilever Scope Mount

The Forward Offset Design

The key difference between cantilever mounts and regular mounts is that they are specifically designed to extend the optic forward beyond the rail of your rifle. This provides you with optimal eye relief, which is crucial for optics with variable magnification like LPVOs. 

It also helps prevent crowding the optic onto the receiver.

One-Piece Construction

Many cantilever mounts are single-piece, meaning they are one extended piece with all parts made of the same material. This makes them more rigid, solid, and reliable than regular two-piece mounts.

Integrated Rings

With a cantilever mount, the scope rings are integrated into the mount, so you don’t have to incur extra expenditures to buy rings separately or spend a lot of them to ensure that they are properly aligned on the scope. Using a cantilever scope mount basically eliminates any chances of misalignment between your scope rings. 

Quick-Detach Options

Some models of cantilever mounts feature quick-detach levers, which can allow you to remove or reattach your optic without losing zero.

When Do You Need a Cantilever Mount?

Whether tactical shooting, hunting, or competitive shooting, a cantilever scope mount can provide flexibility and stability and give you an ergonomic advantage. Here’s how having a cantilever mount makes a difference in the following cases.

• Tactical Shooting: Great when paired with LPVOs (like 1-6x or 1-8x scopes) on AR-15 rifles.
• Hunting: Provides stability and flexibility for scopes on modern hunting rifles.
• Competitive Shooting: It ensures precise alignment and rapid target acquisition.

Benefits of Cantilever Scope Mounts

They are Better for Ergonomics

Cantilever scope mounts are better for ergonomics: Their forward position makes it easy to take a shooting stance that is healthier for your back and more comfortable while remaining practical and efficient, even if you are using one of those modern rifles with shorter stocks or shooting in tactical awkward positions.

They Are Versatile

Cantilever mounts are probably the most versatile rifle mounts. They work perfectly with AR-platform rifles and any other firearms with Picatinny or Weaver rails. They can also accommodate a wide variety of different kinds of optics, especially those with larger objective lenses or longer tubes.

They are Durable.

The best cantilever mounts are constructed from robust materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. This material is used for military fighter jets, and it makes the mount highly resistant to recoil and other environmental factors.  

They are Easy to Mount. 

A cantilever mount is easy to mount and align because the scope rings are already attached to the base of the mount. All you need is a Torx or Allen wrench (usually included with the mount), a torque wrench with inch-pound settings, some Loctite, and a Bubble level. This reduces the time you need to set up your optic and continue your fun.

Choosing the Right Cantilever Scope Mount

There are five main factors to consider when selecting a cantilever mount for your rifle: it must be compatible with the right height, weight, and brand quality. Here’s how to consider each factor independently and make the right decision.

Compatibility

Your rifle’s rail system could be Picatinny or Weaver, and not all cantilever mounts can accommodate both. Make sure the mount must fit your rifle’s rail system. 

Also, verify if the mount in question can accommodate your optic's tube diameter, which is usually 1 inch or 30mm.

Height

If your mount is too high, you will have trouble aligning the optic with your eye. You must ensure that the cantilever mount is just the appropriate height to align the optic with your eye while maintaining a natural shooting position.

Weight

The lighter the mount, the better for your setup. Opt for lightweight models to avoid adding unnecessary weight to your rifle.

Brand and Quality

Sometimes, the only difference between the new and established scope brands is the big name. With a new brand, you can easily find a mount with similar or better specifications at a more affordable price. This has been the overwhelming response to the newly launched Seipnir Cantilever Mounts from Goggunnr. 

The GoGunnr Sleipnir Cantilever Mount

Gogunnr Sleipnir Cantilever Mount is forged from superior 7075 aluminum alloy, it offers unparalleled toughness compared to the standard 6-series, ensuring resilience in any environment.

• Weighing just 189 grams, the Sleipnir combines lightweight performance with durability.
• Its integrated dual-ring design guarantees a secure hold on your scope.
• The easy-to-mount system ensures quick readiness for your next adventure.

Get Ready With Gogunnr

In addition to the mount, you can checkout the official introduction to the Odin 1-10x 28 LPVO. Gogunnr also provides useful information on how to mount the optic and set the best zero, as well as other amazing safety tips for using your LPVO.