Quick-release scope mounts, also called quick-detach scopes mounts, are designed to give the shooter the option of removing and reattaching an optic from a firearm while preserving the alignment between the device and the gun to maintain a zero. This means that after an optic is sighted in, the device can be taken off and put back on without having to be re-sighted in. This allows for the shooter to use the same firearm for different applications. As a result, this makes the firearm a much more versatile tool.
Early quick-release scope mounts were used in hunting applications. Traditionally, these types of mounts are used on bolt-action or break-action rifles used for taking large and dangerous game. Quick-release scope mounts give a hunter several options when approaching the “Big Five” in Africa, or large brown bear in North America, Europe or Asia.
The first option is using a scoped rifle to create distance from dangerous game. The big five— elephant, cape buffalo, lion, leopard and rhinoceros—as well as brown bear, have a tendency to attack their pursuer and it does not matter whether they are wounded. Having a scope on the firearm creates distance for a hunter, which is recognized as a technique for surviving an encounter.
The second option for the hunter is to use a rifle’s iron sights. By having quick-release scope mounts, an optic can be removed if the hunter wants to stalk and get very close before shooting at dangerous game. Removing an optic is also important when tracking a wounded dangerous animal. Wounded animals usually head to thick cover and mount an attack in close quarters, so a hunter might be wise to remove the optic when near dangerous or wounded game since the rifle’s iron sights offer a very wide range of view. Doing this also allows the hunter to see around in his or her peripheral vision for any or additional threats.
Firearms with quick-release scope mounts are more common today because modern sporting arms are usually outfitted with Picatinny rails, which allow for quick attachment and removal of accessories. Additionally, whereas traditional hunting guns might have one scope, modern sporting arms may have multiple optics. This gives the shooter the option of various holographic, laser or other modern optics on the same rifle. This way the shooter can choose the proper optic depending on the situation or environmental condition.
Too, traditional mounts were used on hunting rifles chambered in large magnum rounds such as .375 H&H, .416 Rem Mag, .470 Nitro, and .500 Nitro. Quick-release scope mounts were used in hunting dangerous game that might attack the hunter. Quick-release scope mounts on modern sporting arms are usually used on smaller calibers like .233 Rem or 5.56 NATO. Modern sporting arms are usually designed and used for tactical or self-defense applications.
Benefits
The are many benefits of utilizing quick-release scope mounts, the main one being that it eliminates the need for a second gun. For example, if you are using a scoped rifle, then shoot and wound a large, dangerous animal, all you need to do is remove the scope when tracking it for a follow up shot. This is important because with ever-increasing regulations, it is easier to travel with as few guns as possible.
Another benefit is that it allows the owner to safeguard expensive scopes. A quality scope can be as expensive, or in some cases, more expensive than the firearm. Depending on the airline, it is possible to protect your scope by taking it with you in your carry-on luggage. By carrying it on the plane with you, your scope is also protected from rough baggage handlers.
An issue that many rifle shooters are concerned with is their scope getting “knocked” off zero if their firearm is hit or dropped. This can be prevented by using quick-release scope mounts since it will return to zero when it is re-attached to the firearm. These mounts also prevent against a scope being knocked off zero during traveling to and from hunting area, rough roads on the property, and getting in or out of your blind.
Cons
There are some downsides to using quick-release scope mounts. First, the gun owner now has two things to keep up with—the rifle and the scope. That is not a problem as long as both items end up at the same place. Those who have done extensive traveling know that can be hard at times.
Another issue that can occur with quick release scope mounts has to do with the “zero.” Even though these mounts hold the “zero,” it is not an exact measurement. The point of impact might be slightly off. It is said to hold “zero” because firearms on which quick-release scope mounts are used are calibers with heavy bullets and a relatively short yardage gun. These are typically referred to as 200- or 300-yard rifles even though they are seldom used over 100 yards. At these distances, the bullet strikes close enough to be considered on “zero.” The quick-release mount that is considered the best for returning a scope to “zero” is a German Claw Mount System.
Lastly, the more something is handled, the more likely it can be dropped and damaged. Usually when a scope is detached or re-attached, environmental conditions are not ideal. It could be raining, hot, dry, humid, etc. There could also be an injured large predator involved. Removing or re-attaching a scope while suffering from the effects of an adrenalin surge can be difficult.
Putting a quick-release scope mount on your favorite hunting rifle can add a new level of excitement to your hunt. This gives you the option of using your rifle’s iron sights or scope. Quick release scope mounts let you decide at that moment how hard you want to hunt or how challenging you want to make it. Knowing your equipment and knowing what is capable of its limits allows you to find out what you are capable of and allows you limitless fun!
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