Was the Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces the Right Choice?
For any shooter who’s ever wrestled with aligning a scope on a rifle, the importance of a solid, dependable mount cannot be overstated. I’d been searching for a robust solution for a specific rifle with a narrow dovetail rail, and the Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces caught my eye due to its integrated, one-piece design and Hawke’s reputation. My previous mount, a two-piece setup, had started to show signs of shifting under recoil, leading to frustrating re-zeroing sessions. This Hawke mount promised a more stable foundation, a crucial factor when precision matters.
The initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid engineering. The anodized aluminum felt substantial, and the machining appeared clean and precise. Compared to some of the flimsier options I’d encountered, this felt like a significant step up. I had also considered a generic set of rings from an online auction site, but the integrated base of this Hawke optic was the primary draw. There was an immediate sense of relief that this might finally be the solution to my mounting woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds for this Hawke optic were primarily the local shooting range and a few carefully managed outdoor sessions. The rifle in question is a .22 caliber air rifle, which, while not a magnum-caliber beast, still delivers enough recoil to make a poorly seated scope mount a real nuisance. The installation process itself was straightforward, largely due to the one-piece construction. I simply centered the mount on the 9-11mm dovetail rail, ensured the reversible clamp was correctly oriented, and began tightening.
The integrated design made alignment a breeze; there was no fiddling with independent ring heights. The internal cushion tape did its job, providing a gentle grip on the scope tube without any obvious marring. After initial tightening, I cycled the action a few times and dry-fired to simulate recoil. The mount remained seated firmly, and there was no hint of slippage.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks of regular use, including multiple range trips and countless dry-fire sessions, have confirmed the initial positive impressions of this one-piece mount. It has consistently held my Hawke scope in place, a significant improvement over my previous two-piece setup. The dovetail double hex screws are particularly effective, providing ample grip without feeling like they’re about to strip.
In terms of durability, the high grade aluminum anodized finish has held up remarkably well. Even with occasional bumps and scrapes during transport or handling, there are no significant cosmetic blemishes. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth and occasional checks of the screw tightness are all that’s required. I’ve intentionally subjected it to a range of temperatures, from cool autumn mornings to warmer afternoons, and the mount’s integrity remained uncompromised. Compared to older, budget mounts I’ve used, this Hawke optic feels like it belongs in a higher tier.
Breaking Down the Features of Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces
Specifications
The Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces is built with precision and durability in mind. It features a 30 mm tube diameter, making it compatible with a wide array of popular rifle scopes. The high ring height is designed to provide adequate clearance for larger objective lenses, a crucial consideration for many modern scopes.
Constructed from high grade anodized aluminum, this mount offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It weighs in at 6.1 oz, which is substantial enough to feel robust without adding excessive bulk to the rifle. The overall length of 4.7 inches is sufficient for accommodating most standard scope mounting positions on a variety of firearms. The mount type is specifically dovetail, designed to fit 9-11mm rails, a common standard on many air rifles and rimfire firearms.
Key functional features include a reversable dove tail clamp that fits 9-11mm and 3/8 inch, offering versatility for different rail widths. The internal cushion tape is a thoughtful addition that prevents scratching or damaging the scope’s main tube during installation and while under stress. For many firearm platforms in this rail size, the 9-11mm models are fitted with a recoil stop pin, adding another layer of security against movement under recoil. The dovetail double hex screws used for securing the scope rings are designed for a firm, reliable hold.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any scope mount is to hold your optic zeroed under the stresses of shooting, and this Hawke mount excels in that regard. Its one-piece design fundamentally eliminates the potential for the individual rings to go out of alignment with each other, a common failure point in lesser mounts. This integrated base provides a rock-solid platform for the rings, ensuring that once your scope is mounted and sighted in, it stays that way.
The performance is particularly impressive given the rifle it’s mounted on. Even with the moderate but persistent recoil of a .20 caliber air rifle, the scope has remained perfectly aligned. I’ve experienced no point of impact shifts after extended shooting sessions, which is a testament to the mount’s stability and the effectiveness of its clamping mechanism. The reversible dove tail clamp also allows for a very secure fit onto the 9-11mm rail, minimizing any play or looseness.
Design & Ergonomics
From a design standpoint, the Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The black anodized finish is matte and uniform, blending well with most rifle finishes. The machining is precise, with clean edges and well-cut threads on the ring cap screws.
Ergonomically, the high ring height is a significant advantage for scopes with larger objective bells, preventing contact with the rifle barrel. The double hex screws on the ring caps provide a good grip for tightening, and their recessed design keeps them from snagging on anything. The overall feel is one of robust construction; it doesn’t feel like a component that will bend, flex, or fail under pressure.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is clearly a strong suit for this Hawke optic. The high grade aluminum construction suggests it’s built to withstand the rigors of repeated use. The anodized finish is resistant to scuffs and abrasions, and I haven’t noticed any signs of cracking or deformation even after several months of use and regular handling.
Maintenance is straightforward, which is a big plus. The internal cushion tape means you don’t have to worry about over-tightening and damaging your scope tube. Keeping the mount clean involves little more than a quick wipe down with a dry cloth. If there’s any concern, it would be ensuring the hex screws remain properly tightened over time, but this is standard practice for any firearm accessory.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” included with this mount is, in essence, its integrated design itself – the combination of rings and base into a single, robust unit. The reversible dove tail clamp is a key functional feature that enhances compatibility. For rifles equipped with the necessary hole for a recoil stop pin, the inclusion of this feature on the 9-11mm models is a significant benefit, preventing fore-aft movement of the scope under recoil.
While this mount is designed for specific scope tube diameters (30mm in this case), its primary customization lies in its ability to securely hold your chosen scope. Unlike modular systems, this is a fixed, ready-to-go solution. The design prioritizes direct, solid mounting rather than extensive aftermarket add-ons, which is often precisely what users seek for reliability.
Pros and Cons of Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces
Pros
- Integrated One-Piece Design: Eliminates alignment issues common with two-piece mounts, offering superior stability.
- Robust Construction: Made from high grade anodized aluminum, it feels incredibly solid and durable.
- Secure Clamping: Dovetail double hex screws and the reversable dove tail clamp ensure a firm and reliable grip on the rifle rail and scope.
- Scope Protection: Internal cushion tape prevents damage and markings on the scope tube.
- Recoil Management: The inclusion of a recoil stop pin on the 9-11mm variant is a significant advantage for managing recoil.
- Excellent Value: Offers premium features and performance at a very competitive price point.
Cons
- Limited Rail Compatibility: Primarily designed for 9-11mm dovetail rails, making it unsuitable for Picatinny or Weaver systems without an adapter.
- Fixed Ring Spacing: The fixed nature of the one-piece design means ring spacing is not adjustable, which could be a limitation for some very long or short scopes.
- No Integrated Level: While not expected at this price point, a built-in leveling bubble would be a welcome addition for easier scope mounting.
Who Should Buy Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces?
This Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces is an excellent choice for shooters who own rifles equipped with 9-11mm dovetail rails and are looking to mount a 30mm scope. It is particularly well-suited for air rifle enthusiasts, rimfire shooters, and those with other firearms featuring this specific rail standard. If you’ve experienced the frustration of a shifting scope zero or the complexity of aligning separate rings, this integrated mount will be a revelation.
Anyone needing to mount a scope on a Picatinny or Weaver rail should look elsewhere, or consider an adapter, though that would compromise the simplicity this mount offers. It’s also not the best choice for those needing extreme adjustability in ring spacing. For users prioritizing rock-solid stability, ease of installation, and reliable performance without excessive cost, this Hawke mount is a fantastic option. A good torque wrench set is a recommended complementary item for ensuring screws are tightened to the correct specifications, although hand-tightening with a hex key is often sufficient for these mounts.
Conclusion on Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces
The Hawke Sport Optics Dovetail 30mm Hight Rifle Scope Ring Mount – 1-Pieces is, in my professional opinion, a standout product that punches well above its weight class. It delivers a level of build quality and reliable performance that is often found in much more expensive mounts. The integrated design offers a significant advantage in terms of stability and ease of installation, while the robust construction ensures it can handle recoil without issue.
Considering its price of $30.15, the value proposition is exceptional. You’re getting a durable, well-engineered solution that effectively secures your optic, providing peace of mind on the range and in the field. I would not hesitate to recommend this Hawke mount to any shooter with a compatible rail system who values precision and reliability. It’s a testament to Hawke Sport Optics’ commitment to producing quality gear that meets the needs of serious users.