Choosing the right scope mount is crucial for long-range shooting, and understanding the nuances of different types, especially those with an inclination like a 20 MOA (Minute of Angle) mount, can significantly impact your accuracy. This comprehensive guide will explain what a 20 MOA scope mount is, its benefits, and when you should consider using one.
What is a 20 MOA Scope Mount?
A 20 MOA scope mount is a mounting system designed to provide an upward cant of 20 MOA (approximately 0.6 inches at 100 yards). This means the scope is inherently angled upwards. Unlike standard mounts that sit parallel to the barrel, a 20 MOA mount gives you additional elevation adjustment. This is especially important for long-range shooting where you often need to dial in significant amounts of elevation to compensate for bullet drop.
Understanding MOA
MOA stands for Minute of Angle. One MOA is approximately one inch of group size at 100 yards. Therefore, a 20 MOA mount effectively gives you an extra 20 inches of vertical adjustment at 100 yards. This translates to more range and greater elevation adjustment before you reach the limits of your scope’s adjustment turrets.
Benefits of Using a 20 MOA Scope Mount
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Extended Range Capabilities: The most significant advantage is the increased elevation adjustment. This allows you to engage targets at longer distances without running out of adjustment on your scope. Without a 20 MOA mount, you might find yourself maxed out on your scope's upward adjustment well before reaching your rifle's maximum effective range.
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Increased Turret Travel: By using the built-in elevation of the mount, you conserve precious turret travel on your scope. This keeps you within the optimal operating range of your scope’s adjustments, leading to greater precision and reduced risk of errors from running out of adjustment.
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Improved Zeroing Process: With a 20 MOA mount, you often start closer to your zero point, simplifying the initial zeroing process. Less dialing is required, meaning less time spent adjusting the scope.
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Enhanced Precision: Because you're using the mount to handle part of the elevation adjustment, the fine adjustments made with your scope turrets are more refined, ultimately leading to improved precision and group size.
When Should You Use a 20 MOA Scope Mount?
A 20 MOA mount isn't always necessary. Here's a breakdown of scenarios where it shines:
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Long-Range Shooting: If you engage targets beyond 600 yards, a 20 MOA mount becomes increasingly beneficial. The longer the range, the more significant the bullet drop, and the more advantageous this type of mount becomes.
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High-Powered Rifles: Rifles chambered in calibers like .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua Magnum, or similar powerful cartridges often require a substantial amount of elevation adjustment at long ranges. A 20 MOA mount helps manage this.
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High-Magnification Scopes: High-magnification scopes are commonly used for long-range shooting. These scopes often have less overall elevation adjustment than lower magnification scopes, making a 20 MOA mount a valuable asset.
Choosing the Right 20 MOA Scope Mount
Several factors need consideration when choosing a 20 MOA scope mount:
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Material: Aluminum is the most common material, offering a good balance of strength and weight. Steel is also available for enhanced durability but adds weight.
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Ring Height: This depends on the scope's tube diameter and objective lens size. Insufficient clearance can lead to issues with scope alignment or even damage.
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Construction Quality: Ensure the mount is precisely machined and features robust construction to ensure consistent and reliable performance.
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Compatibility: Verify that the mount is compatible with both your rifle's receiver and your specific scope.
Conclusion
A 20 MOA scope mount provides a significant advantage for long-range shooters by extending the effective range of your rifle and simplifying the zeroing process. By understanding its benefits and when to utilize one, you can significantly improve your accuracy and shooting performance. However, remember to carefully consider the factors outlined above before selecting a mount to ensure optimal compatibility and performance.
