One of the best parts of owning an AR-15 rifle is the ability to add an array of accessories. From scopes and lights to lasers and grips, there is no shortage of available options when it comes to outfitting an AR-15 rifle for a specific need.
One problem that can potentially arise is a scope being affected by another mounted accessory. The scope’s line of sight might be obscured or it just might not be at the shooter’s preferred height. That is where an AR-15 riser mount comes in.
Keep reading to learn more and to see the best AR-15 riser mounts that are available on the market today.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for AR15 Riser Mounts
- OUR TOP PICK: TruGlo Picatinny 1/2 Riser Mount
- RUNNER-UP: Brownells - AR-15/M16 Flattop Riser
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Yankee Hill Machine Co., Inc. - AR-15/M16 Mini Riser Assembly
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Riser Mounts
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What to Watch For When Buying AR-15 Riser Mounts
Anyone who has dealt with a subpar scope mount knows that it is important to take the time to find a high-quality mount for any type of optic. The same holds true for AR-15 riser mounts. They are not one size fits all. It is important to make sure that the one you choose suits your specific rifle and your specific array of accessories. Varying mount height, materials, finishes, and lengths offer plenty of options for just about the AR-15 setup you might have.
This Section Written By: Brian Belko
Expert Author
Brian is an experienced freelance writer and technical writer who has previously written for publications such as Wide Open Spaces, Bigfoot Gun Belts, Alien Gear Holsters, and Kampgrounds of America. He brings both a passion for writing and a love of the outdoors to his published content.
Aside from writing and the outdoors, Brian enjoys gardening, being a co-host on The Nostalgia Blast Podcast, and learning to code.
Co-Witnessing
A co-witness sight setup is one in which the iron sights are visible through a mounted scope or red dot sight. Many shooters prefer this setup because it can be more accurate and precise while also offering a backup in the event of an optical sight malfunctioning in any way. An absolute co-witness is when the red dot of the sight is perfectly aligned with the iron sights.
Another option is a lower ⅓ co-witness setup which means the iron sights are located in the lower third of the scope. This allows the red dot to be used by itself by looking through the center of the scope, but if you drop your line of sight lower, the red dot will align with the iron sights there. The height of the AR-15 riser mount you need will depend on the type of iron sights you have as well as your preferred type of co-witness sight picture.
Sturdy Construction
As mentioned earlier, the quality of a scope mount is extremely important. It is the part that connects your scope or sight to your rifle. Any amount of give or wiggle can lead to an inaccurate and frustrating to shoot a rifle. It might feel a bit annoying to spend a decent chunk of change on what is basically a single piece of machined metal, but it is worth it in the long run. The best course of action here is to choose a mount from a reputable manufacturer.
Quick Change
If you are the type of shooter that enjoys swapping out accessories on the regular, you may want to consider a quick detach AR-15 riser mount. That type of mount is equipped with a lever that allows the riser mount and any attached optics to be removed quickly when pulled. This makes it easy to hot swap between rifles or just remove entirely without breaking out the screwdriver set.
Review of the Best AR-15 Riser Mounts
Below are seven of the best AR-15 riser mounts currently on the market as of today. While going through the list, you should take note of the features and functions of each product. You’ll never know which one will check off your list of “things to look for in a riser mount”.
If you think you have a winner on your hands, you should always do more in-depth research to see what others are saying about it before considering buying it. Now, let’s begin by diving into our list by unveiling the “best overall” product:
Best Overall
TruGlo Picatinny 1/2 Riser Mount
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First on the docket, we’ll be taking a look at the Picatinny ½ Riser Mount from the TruGlo brand. Right off the bat, you’ll notice that is has a Picatinny rail system for the easy attachment of any Picatinny-compatible scopes or optics. The mount is CNC-machined aluminum that’s tough all over and will serve as an extra layer of protection from the shock produced by recoil.
Sometimes, you’ll have just enough shock to throw off your scope’s zero to a point where you need to re-sight the scope again and again. With a good riser mount like this, that is a thing of the past. This will not only work on your scope or optic of choice, but if you have a red dot sight, you’ll be able to fit it perfectly without any issues.
If you have a flattop AR-15 rifle, this mount will fit perfectly. Just a few minutes of installation and the right kind of tools, you’ll be in business as long as you take good care of your rifle and all the parts that make it run so smoothly. Once installed, your scope or optic will have a half-inch boost to better align your scope with your target.
If your shot’s a little too low, you can definitely give it a slight boost so it’s more accurate and precise and not a half-inch or more off. If you’re looking for a product considered to be the best of the best, the TruGlo Picatinny ½ Riser Mount might be exactly what you’re looking for to give your scope a bit of an extra boost.
Bottom Line
The TruGlo Picatinny ½ Riser Mount, in our view, is deserving of the “best overall” honor. If you’re looking for a decent mount for your flattop AR-15, you’ll be quite pleased that this will fit, no problem.
All you have to do now is put it to good use by finding a scope that will be easy to attach. You may have one laying around or not. Either way, this mount is solid and delivers reliable performance in keeping your scope or optic steady.
Pros
Easy to Install
Super Durable
Accepts Almost Any Picatinny-Style Scope or Optic
Cons
May Not Accept Any Weaver-Rail Scopes or Optics
Runner-up
Brownells – AR-15/M16 Flattop Riser
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Next, we’ll be taking a look at the Brownells AR-15/M16 Flattop Riser. If you’re looking for a riser mount that will work with all kinds of AR-15 or M16 flattop rifles, then look no further than this model. This has the 1913-style Picatinny rail you can add onto the scope or optic of choice for better precision and accuracy when it comes to your shots.
Even better, this will accept not only your Picatinny-style scopes and optics, but also those that you’ll typically find on Weaver rails. So it’s quite versatile in accepting any kind of scope or optic. If you have one laying around, don’t hesitate to attach it to your rifle and spend a day at the range. To ensure easy installation, this comes with two hex nuts that will easily fasten the riser directly to your rifle.
This is a CNC-machined unit made from high-quality aluminum. The bottom design is intended to keep the riser light in weight so it doesn’t add on any additional weight to the rifle. Plus, it’s also designed to prevent the riser from “catching” on any gear you might be wearing.
If you’re looking for a good, reliable choice that will work with just about any scope or optic, you’ll want the Brownells Flattop Riser.
Bottom Line
The Brownells Flattop Riser is excellent for your flattop rifle if you want a mount that will work with all kinds of scopes and optics. This might be the closest thing you can get to universal at this point. Whether Picatinny or Weaver scope, you’ll be able to add it onto this mount to boost your rifle’s accuracy, no matter the application.
Pros
Mounts Easily on Most Rifles
Construction is Solid and High-Quality
Most Effective With Scopes That Have a 40mm Objective
Cons
None
Best for the Money
Yankee Hill Machine Co. Inc. – AR-15/M16 Mini Riser Assembly
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Next, we’ll be taking a look at the best AR-15 riser mount for those currently on a budget. Our choice for this is the Yankee Hill Machine Co. AR-15/M16 Mini Riser Assembly. This mount is compact in size and will fit almost any Picatinny rail attached to an AR-15 or M16 rifle.
If you’re looking for a product that is compatible will all types of scopes, optics, and other accessories, you might want to consider adding this mini riser to your rifle. You’ll be more apt to customize your rifle the way you want it. And that, of course, will be based on your intent and purpose.
If you want to increase accuracy, obviously a good scope or optic will do that. If you’re intending to use it in low-light or night conditions, add on a flashlight so you can navigate with ease and be able to identify your targets. You can do this at a price that is quite affordable for most budgets.This is constructed from high-quality, aircraft-grade aluminum. So, in plain English, this puppy is quite durable. It’s the kind of aluminum built to last and impervious to a whole lot of shock, weather, and abuse.
If you’re looking for the best in high-quality at a price that’s shockingly affordable, you’ve hit the jackpot with the Mini Riser Assembly from Yankee Hill Machine. This is a lightweight unit that won’t cause your rifle to get a heavier after you install it. That’s because the design itself includes a center slot that is milled out.
Bottom Line
This exceeds a whole lot of expectations for a budget riser mount. It’s just at the right height to give your scopes and optics a boost. Plus, it is compact and low-profile, so it doesn’t take up too much room on your rifle. Yankee Hill Machine had the customizing AR-15 owner in mind when they designed this.
Whether you’re on a budget or not, this item is worth the investment if you’re looking to add on something durable which allows for as many customizable options as you wish. If this checks off any boxes on your wish list, you know you’ve got a winner with the Yankee Hill Machine Mini Riser Mount.
Pros
Installs in Less Than a Minute
Construction is Sturdy and Very Solid
Super Durable. Protects the Scope’s Zero and Settings From Shock and Recoil
Cons
Loosening it Might Be a Bit of a Challenge
Best for Red Dots
Vortex Optics – AR-15/M16 Razor Red Dot Riser Mount
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If you have a red dot sight you want to install on your AR-15 rifle, then we’ve got a riser mount you might enjoy. This is the Vortex Optics AR-15/M16 Razor Red Dot Riser Mount. This is a mount that features a Picatinny-style rail that you can use to add on your favorite red dot sight.
If you have one laying around, don’t let it sit there and collect dust. If you’re looking for something that’s more of a quick-detach model, you’ll find it with the Vortex Optics riser mount. You can add it on quickly, detach it, and re-install it on other AR-15 style rifles. If you’re looking for that kind of flexibility, then your search ends here.
This will give your red dot sight a little bit of a boost so you can adjust any accuracy issues that you might have. If you’re shooting a little lower than expected, you’ll know it’s time for a riser mount that will work perfectly with all kinds of red dot sights.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for something that is durable and reliable for your red dot sight, the Vortex Optics mount might be something that’s right up your alley. The best thing about this is that you can install and uninstall this on an AR-15 rifle with the greatest of ease. You can consider this the closest thing to interchangeable.
Pros
It Increases Accuracy Considerably
Accepts All Kinds of Red Dot Sights
Easy to Install and Uninstall. Can Be Done in Seconds
Cons
Some Have Reported Losing Their Zero After a Few Hundred Rounds
Best Quick Detachable Picatinny Riser Mount
Monstrum Lockdown Series Adjustable Height Picatinny Riser Mount with Quick Release
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Next up, we’ll be taking a look at the best quick-detach Picatinny riser mount for an AR-15. We present to you the Monstrum Lockdown Series Adjustable Height Picatinny Riser Mount with Quick Release. This isn’t just your standard Picatinny riser mount.
Not only will you be able to add on any optics or scopes compatible with the rail system itself, but you can add on any Weaver-rail scopes and optics. This will give you 2.5 inches of height so you can line up your scope perfectly with your target for a perfectly accurate shot, every time. This is made from 6061-T6 aluminum that is lightweight but tough as nails.
It will definitely keep your scope’s zero settings intact and won’t give up on you in even the heaviest of applications. Best of all, it’s easy to attach and easy to release so you can switch it to almost any AR-15 rifle you choose. If adaptability is more of your speed, this Monstrum riser mount might be something that’s worth the investment.
This is available in a wide variety of slots: three-slot, five-slot, seven-slot, and 13-slot. Choose one that best fits your needs and preferences so you’re ready to add on as many much accessories as you need. Plus, the performance will be a heck of a lot better than ever.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for something that will allow you to easily attach and adjust your scope or optic to the settings you want, the Monstrum riser mount might just be your cup of coffee. While it gives you a bit of an extra boost in your optics and scopes, it also has all kinds of slots available if you’re looking to add on more parts or accessories like flashlights.
If you just want to add on a simple scope or optic that is compatible with Picatinny or Weaver rails, then you can choose one that has the fewer slots. Either way, you cannot lose with the Monstrum brand product.
Pros
Solid and Sturdy Construction
Secures Nice and Tight. No Looseness
You Can Adjust Your Optics and Scopes to Be High Enough for Your Personal Needs
Cons
Might Be a Little Too Tall for Some Shooters
Some May Have Issues With the Screws at First. May Need Some Loctite, Just in Case
Best From UTG
Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny Riser Mount
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Next, we’ll be taking a look at the best AR-15 riser mount from the UTG brand. If you’re a fan of UTG, you’re going to want to pay close attention to this product. If you’re a first-time buyer looking for a brand to rely on, this is your first look opportunity at one of the most reliable brands on the market for AR-15 parts and accessories.
What we’ll be looking at is the Leapers Super Slim Picatinny Riser Mount. At first glance, the design looks pretty unique. That probably explains why the thing is so darn lightweight.
This has a Picatinny rail constructed from aircraft-quality aluminum and designed to stand the test time. It can withstand abuse, shock, and all kinds of damage. If you’re looking for something that might be the last riser mount you buy for a while, the UTG riser mount could be the one you’re looking for.
It’s so durable that it will guarantee that your scope’s zero will be held even after hundreds or thousands of rounds. We know how tedious things can get when you’re dealing with a riser mount that doesn’t do its job in protecting the scope’s zero from recoil shock.
Plus, it’s light in weight, so don’t expect your rifle to feel like a one-ton weight once you’ve finished installing it on your rifle. Once installed, all you have to do is add on a scope or optic of your choice. Plus, it gives you enough room to add on any accessories you wish to tack on, like flashlights.
Bottom Line
The UTG brand riser mount is solid, sturdy, and less of an obstruction for most shooters. Plus, it will give your rail more room in case you need to install more accessories on your rifle. This is a customizer’s dream. Add on a scope or optic, maybe a flashlight and you have the makings of a rugged AR-15 rifle that might just be the envy of the range.
Plus, you can use it in night hunting applications or, when the situation arises, a home defense situation. Either way, the UTG Riser Mount might be exactly what you’re looking for if you’re more of the “AR-15 my way” kind of shooter.
Pros
Great for Red Dot Optics
Affordable for Most Budgets
Fits Almost Any Picatinny-Style Scope With the Greatest of Ease
Cons
None
Best See-Through Riser Mount
Gizmo Supply AR15 M4 Flat Top 1-Inch Compact Riser Mount
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For our final riser mount, we’ll be taking a look at the Gizmo Supply AR-15 Flat Top One-inch Compact Riser Mount. One of the things you’ll notice upon first glance is the design. Its skeleton-style design makes this light in weight and unable to add any significant weight to the rifle itself.
This will bump up the height of your scope or optic by just one-inch and will instantly improve your accuracy. Who knew a little adjustment here or there can turn your AR-15 rifle into a sharpshooter? This will attach to almost any flattop AR-15 rifle, so if you have one, this won’t give you any issues when you install it.
Once installed, you can add on your scope or optic that you’ve been dying to try out for a long time. Nothing is more exciting than breaking in a new scope so you can use it for years to come.
To ensure the settings stay the same after several hundred rounds, you’ll need a product that will get the job done. The Gizmo Supply Compact Riser Mount might be the one thing you’ll need to get you by for years or even decades to come.
Bottom Line
This scope mount is probably the most minimal in terms of design. If you need just one thing to keep in mind while looking for accessories, a minimalist design will usually equal lightweight. But don’t let it fool you, it’s still crafted with the same high-quality materials that make it tougher than nails.
If you fancy yourself someone who wants a see-through design for their riser mount, the Gizmo Supply could be something that’s worth the try.
Pros
Easy to Install
Fits All Kinds of Large Objective Scopes
Works Perfectly With Most Scopes and Optics
Cons
May Get a Little Loose at Times After Repeated Use
Some Claim That the Mount is Heavy Despite the Design’s Intent to Keep it Lightweight
What is a Riser Mount and What is it Used for?
A riser mount is designed to be added onto the top portion of your AR-15 rifle. The purpose is to provide an extra amount of height for your favorite scope or optic on your rifle.
You’ll notice that some riser mounts will have rails (like Picatinny or Weaver rails) to accommodate any scope or optic you choose. It’s important to make sure that what you’re installing is compatible with the type of rail. Some scopes may even be universal (meaning they can be attached to either rail).
Benefits of Investing in a Great Riser Mount
If you’re looking to invest in a riser mount of your own, chances are you are wanting to enjoy some of the advantages and perks of using one. Whether you’re using it for an upgrade or if adding one to a new building project you’re working on, you’ll be able to experience the following benefits:
Better Accuracy
Yes, a scope or optic will definitely sharpen your accuracy. However, there will come a time that it won’t be so precise in it’s shooting. More specifically, the shot may be a little too low for your liking. A riser mount will bump up the height of your scope to make sure it will keep in line with your target and in turn, make your shots more accurate. Your shot will land exactly where you want it and not just an inch above or below it.
Better Customization
Riser mounts come in handy if you’re looking to give your AR-15 a more customizable approach. As mentioned, most of these riser mounts have Picatinny or Weaver rails. Both rails are best known for allowing you to customize your rifle to your liking.
That also includes the addition or scopes, optics, flashlights, and any other pertinent accessories that might better the performance of your rifle. In this situation, riser mounts only accommodate scopes or optics that are compatible with a certain rail system.
How to Choose an AR-15 Riser Mount
Finding the right AR-15 riser mount does take a bit of time. And yes, it even takes a bit of detective work as well. By that, we mean being able to distinguish a great product from one that is considered crappy and ineffective in quality. As a first-time buyer, you may want to pay close attention to this list so you know exactly what you’ll need to look for. Here’ are some tips on how to choose a riser mount for your own:
Price
You might be one of the many AR-15 rifle owners looking for accessories on a budget. We won’t blame you a bit if you do. The price tag will always be of importance when looking for an upgrade.
Other than the affordable price tag, you should always look for secondary qualities like the overall quality of a riser mount. This way, you’ll be able to make the determination of whether or not if it’s the best one you can afford or if it’s another one of the cheap quality riser mounts that tend to crowd the market.
Picatinny or Weaver Rail?
You may be a fan of the Picatinny rail system or more of a Weaver rail kind of shooter. Either way, it’s important to find a rail that best fits your personal needs and preferences. An easier way to make a decision is to take a look at the current scopes and optics you may already have.
For example, if you have a scope that can fit Picatinny rails, the answer is a no-brainer. Likewise, if you have a scope or optic that fits Weaver rails, choose a Weaver rail riser mount that will accommodate it.
Installation
If you’re not an expert gunsmith, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on these riser mounts. In fact, most of them will be drop-in style versions that will be easy to install. These will take minutes of your time and require the right kind of tools.
Pros and Cons of AR-15 Riser Mounts
While there are some advantages to having a riser mount installed on your AR-15, it does come with its own disadvantages as well. Here’s what you’ll expect once you install one on your own rifle:
Pros
Here are some pros:
Better Accuracy
Your shots are a little too low. So accuracy would be suspect if that were the case. A riser mount will give your scope or optic a considerable boost in height so the shots are more accurate and allow you a much better aim.
Fits on Most Rail Systems
As you’ve already noticed, a riser mount will always cooperate with rail systems like Picatinny and Weaver rails. This will give way for better customization options for you. Most standalone scopes can easily be installed using a Picatinny or Weaver rail. However, there will come a time when your scope needs a boost. So a standard riser mount will fit on your rail system while it will have a rail of its own for easier attachment of your scope or optic.
May Work With Red Dot and Iron Sights
If you’re using red dots and iron sights, a riser mount might just give the red dot enough of a boost so it’s perfectly aligned with the iron sight itself. Thus, it will make accuracy a little better for those who prefer these types of sights.
Cons
Here are some cons:
May Look a Little Bulky
Some riser mounts, in terms of design, might be a little bulkier than normal. Some designs may also be a bit slimmer. But either way, one disadvantage is that it may not be pleasing in terms of aesthetics. If you care more about your rifle’s looks, then a riser mount may not be what you need.
Some May Say it Could be Pointless to Use
Some seasoned AR-15 users think a riser mount may be pointless to own. Therefore, it might be just a waste of your hard-earned money and we understand that. However, if you’re a first-time owner, you might want to consider one as a potential solution if your scope or optic somehow doesn’t line up your shots properly.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best AR-15 riser mount, you’ve got a whole lot of choices. No matter your intent or your personal preference, there’s a mount just for you. Choose one of the seven listed above and find a scope that might complement it.
If you already have a scope, please take the necessary measurements before choosing a mount. To err on the side of making it easier on you, if you have a Picatinny-compatible scope, then a Picatinny rail mount is your best solution (and vice versa if you own a Weaver rail scope or optic).
