In this guide I’m going to show you the best SKS scope mount.
In fact:
These are proven mounts that many SKS gun owners (like myself) use.
The best part?
I’ve sorted the mounts by use. So whether you’re on a budget or need a solid sks receiver scope mount, you’ll find it here.
Let’s get started!
Different Types of SKS Mounts
The Russian SKS carbine was first made in 1945, and it has retained a loyal and fairly large following ever since.
It may not be the prettiest rifle on the market, but it’s reliable and packs a punch which makes it perfect for deer hunting and home defense.
One of the main issues the SKS has always had though is that iron sights just aren’t great when you’re trying to nail a deer at 500 yards.
Unfortunately, trying to replace the standard iron sights on an SKS with any kind of scope is an absolute bear.
It’s doable, but halfway through you’re going to wonder if it’s really worth the effort.
Keep reading and I’ll tell you what your best options are for an SKS scope, and how to mount them on your rifle.
Scout Mounts
Let me reiterate:
The SKS is not an optic friendly rifle.
That said, one of your best options is going to be to find a scout scope that you like and mount it to the rear sight base.
To do that, you’ll have to modify your SKS by removing the rear sight leaf.
Luckily, if you know what you’re doing this is incredibly easy to do.
Check out this youtube video that will walk you through the process.
One of the issues with this method is that no matter how tight you think you’ve got the mount, it’s probably still going to wobble.
If you can handle it, then check out these scout scopes that I recommend.
Receiver Cover Mounts
Not all receiver mounts are built equally.
If you go with this option, you’ll want to spend the extra money to make sure you get a high-quality mount that’s not going to wobble around on you.
Cheap receivers are nearly impossible to mount tightly enough to an SKS.
That means you’ll spend the majority of your time adjusting and resighting every few shots.
That said, UTG now makes a receiver mount specifically made for the SKS.
Enter: the UTG Pro SKS Receiver Mount.
It’s a heavy-duty Picatinny 22 slot rail mount with a built-in shell deflector. It’s tough, extra sturdy, easy to install, and has zero wobble to it.
I’ll go more in-depth about this mount later. For now, let’s move on to…
How To Mount An SKS Scope
Depending on which mount you chose to use, it’s either a quick process or one you need to have done by a professional.
Any of the mounts that require you to remove the rear sights are fairly straightforward and easy to do.
The main issues you’re going to run into are making sure that it’s properly balanced and that the weight doesn’t throw off your aim.
You’ll also need to make sure that the mount is tightened down as tight as you can make it.
For the Choate, or if you’re not comfortable modding your carbine yourself, just go to a gunsmith.
Trust me. You’ll thank me later.
Should You Use A Scope On Your SKS?
While it’s possible, the SKS was never meant to have a scope on it.
The iron sights are effective as long as you’ve got decent eyesight.
If you really prefer to have a scope on your SKS, then any of the above methods will get you a fairly solid mounting system.
They’ve each got their drawbacks though.
If you want a similar rifle but don’t want to deal with trying to rig a mount onto an SKS, then consider an AR-15.
It’s not an exact comparison, but you’ll have a much easier time trying to customize an AR to your liking than you will an SKS.
If you go that route, check out these AR-15 mounts I recommend. Otherwise, let’s check out the top SKS optic mounts on the market today…
The 4 Best SKS Scope Mount
If you’re pressed on time, here’s a quick list of the best SKS scope mounts:
- Matador SKS Full Length Optic Rail Mount
- AR-GEAR SKS Rifle See Through Receiver Cover
- UTG PRO SKS Receiver Cover Mount
- Magwedge SKS Rail Scope Mount KwikRail Gen 2.5
1. Matador SKS Full Length Optic Rail Mount
If you’re looking to convert your SKS rifle into a tactical optic, you need this full length rail mount.
The Matador Full Length Optic Rail Mount will enhance your SKS and bring it into the modern world.
How?
By adding a rail mount, you’ll get more adjustable eye relief and enhance the versatility of your rifle.
Plus, you can add other modern accessories to your rifle.
So keep reading to get the full scoop on this rail mount…
Mount Quality & Fit
This full length receiver rail mount optic can turn your SKS into a tactical rifle.
Which only enhances your SKS, so you can precisely sight in on any target.
Plus, it’s made of solid aluminum. So it easily deflects shells and remains protected.
It only gets better with the built-in deflector, so shells will bounce right off without damaging the mount.
With its exact rail slots, you’ll get a perfect fit every time. This is due to the mount’s unique design that actually replaces the dust cover and rear sight.
Which means that you’ll be able to fire away without the rail mount shifting out of place.
It also accepts picatinny bases.
Eye Relief
The rail mount itself is ten inches long.
So there’s plenty of room for adjustable eye relief, depending on what rifle you mount it on.
Plus, it holds zero really well. So you won’t have to keep readjusting.
Installation
This rail mount is so easy to install.
All you need is five minutes and your rail mount will be good to go.
And you’ll get a nice, sturdy fit that will ensure this mount will stay on for the long run.
I’ve put around 1000 rounds in using this mount and it has remained in place.
In fact, I haven’t had to adjust it once.
Verdict
If you’ve got a SKS rifle and want to add some modern optics, I would highly recommend checking out the Matador SKS Full Length Optic Rail Mount.
Here’s the top features:
- Enhances any SKS rifle
- Durable aluminum build
- Mount stays perfectly in place
- Makes sighting easy and holds zero
Overall, the SKS Full Length Optic Rail Mount would be a great addition to any SKS rifle.
Plus, you could add other modern accessories such as red dot sights or magnifiers.
So check out this rail mount if you want a bit more out of your classic SKS rifle.
2. AR-GEAR SKS Rifle See Through Receiver Cover
The AR-GEAR SKS Rifle See Through Receiver Cover picatinny mount is the only mount you’ll ever need or want for a SKS rifle.
It has everything you’ll need to get your scope mounted correctly and complete your setup.
It takes a little time and effort to get it installed, but it’s totally worth it.
Let me tell you why it’s the best…
Mount Quality & Fit
This mount was built to last and withstand whatever you can throw at it.
It’s a solid, one-piece steel construction that’s stable and non-rocking. Once you get it installed, it’s rock solid and has a tight fit.
Plus, the hardware is well made and you’ll never have to worry about it breaking.
And it comes with 1” rings, which most similar mounts don’t have.
Installation
Getting this mount installed can take a little work, but once it’s fit properly, it doesn’t move at all.
Because of the different variants of SKS rifles, the front prongs are made long to make sure they’ll fit any variant.
Due to this, you may need to file them down to fit yours. Just take it slow and only file one to two strokes and then check the fit. You don’t want to over file it.
Once you get the right fit, it only takes a minute to finish installation.
Eye Relief
So far I’ve shot over 200 rounds and the mount hasn’t budged at all.
On top of that, the scope has held zero.
With the see through receiver cover, you can easily see and still use your iron sights, which is a great feature.
Even the best scopes can sometimes fail and it’s nice to have the use of your backup sights.
The only downside is that you’ll need a smaller scope. With a standard sized scope, it’ll likely interfere with shell ejection.
And you definitely don’t want to suffer any ejection damage to your scope or your rifle. So you’ll want to find the best scope for your SKS, not for a regular muzzleloader.
Verdict?
If you’re looking for the best scope mount for SKS rifles, look no further than the AR-GEAR SKS Rifle See Through Receiver Cover picatinny mount.
It checks all the boxes with:
- Comes with 1” rings
- See through receiver cover
- Fits all SKS, no matter the variant
- Non-rocking, stable, one-piece steel
Overall, I’d highly recommend the AR-GEAR SKS Rifle See Through Receiver Cover. Try it and see for yourself.
- SKS High Profile Scope Base with Integral Weaver / Picatinny (7/8") Scope Sight Light Laser Accessory Rail
- See Through Feature Allows You To Use The Original Iron Sights
- Stable Non Rocking Solid One Piece Steel Construction With Matte Black Finish : 4.9" (L) x 1.3"(W) x 1.9"(H) Weight : 8.7 pz
3. UTG PRO SKS Receiver Cover Mount
There are so many variants when it comes to an SKS rifle that it can be hard to find the right mount.
The UTG PRO SKS Receiver Cover Mount is a great option.
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Want to know why? Keep reading…
Mount Quality & Fit
It is a full length picatinny rail with 22 slots, which allows you to use it for almost any scope on the market.
The steel base is machined high-strength and it is precision casted. Plus, the top rail is made from aircraft grade aluminum.
This means that it’s incredibly durable and you don’t have to worry about it breaking on you. Believe me, I’ve had a mount break when I was out varmint hunting, and the peace of mind you get with this mount is well worth it!
Once you get it installed, it has a nice, tight fit that doesn’t budge.
Speaking of installation…
Installation
Mine went on quickly and easily. It was the perfect fit.
I do know that that won’t always be the case though. Since there are so many variations of SKS rifles, you may have to file down the prongs.
Make sure to do it slowly and constantly recheck the fit. You don’t want to overfile. But once you get it right, the rest is a breeze.
Eye Relief
The top rail has an integral shell ejector, so you don’t have to worry about any ejection damage.
Plus, the top rail has a see through tunnel, which allows you to use your iron sights as a backup.
And with such a long rail, you can position your scope for long eye relief, whether it’s a full size or a compact scope.
Plus, with 4 screws, I know it’s not going anywhere and with the tight fit, it has held zero on my scope for over 300 rounds.
Verdict?
If you’re looking for the best SKS rifle scope mount, you’ve found it with this one.
It has:
- Holds zero
- Shell ejector
- Easy installation
- Rugged durability
- 22 slot picatinny rail
I’d highly recommend trying the UTG PRO SKS Receiver Cover. You can thank me later.
No products found.
4. Magwedge SKS Rail Scope Mount KwikRail Gen 2.5
SKS rifles are adaptable, reliable, and high-powered weapons, just like AR-15s and AK-47s.
I’ve had my Norinco Type 56 for a while now and I know for a fact that SKS’ are notoriously hard-to-fit rifles.
That said, choosing the right mounting system is just as critical as the optic you put on it.
But don’t worry!
I reviewed a great option — the Magwedge SKS KwikRail Gen 2.5 — to make the process a little easier for you.
Interested? Let’s get started….
Mount Quality and Fit
The Magwedge is extremely durable, thanks to its die-cast aluminum construction.
The rugged construction displays a classy, semi-matte anodized finish and weighs only 5 ounces.
It’s designed with standard 1911 Picatinny rail dimensions that fit a wide range of SKS models.
Also:
This mount comes with a groove, which you can use as an emergency back-up iron sight. On that note, the front sight did require some adjustment.
Installation
Pretty Straightforward.
It took me less than 10 minutes to install the Magwedge SKS KwikRail. All I had to do was remove the rear sight and rear dust cover pin from my rifle.
All mounting hardware is supplied with the KwikRail, including a Magwedge SKS Kwik Pin, designed to allow fast assembly and disassembly of the rail.
I’ve heard some shooters mention the need for a “minor” modification.
Mine required none. It fits tight and nicely on my Norinco SKS.
The mount pivots up and out of the way via a rear pin that’s easily removable. This makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
Next step, testing the ability to hold zero at the range…
I put 100 rounds, and the optic I attached had no issues holding zero.
Also, this SKS receiver scope mount did not loosen, move, or rattle.
Best of all:
Every time I returned the KwikRail back to the closed position after cleaning, my scope returned to zero.
Eye Relief
The mount is about 12 inches long with a usable rail length of nearly 10 inches.
You can mount a red dot anywhere on it or even a magnified optic at the rear and still achieve the proper amount of eye relief.
Final Verdict
So, is the Magwedge SKS KwikRail worth it?
Absolutely!
I’ve found that this scope mount can be used for many different types of shooting styles, making it a functional piece. It provides an added stability, safety, and accuracy to your SKS rifle set up.
Here’s a recap:
Pros
Holds zero
Low price tag
Strong Platform
Easy installation
Comes with all mounting hardware
Cons
Front sight requires adjustments.
May require additional fitting.
Overall, the Magwedge SKS KwikRail Gen 2.5 is an excellent product considering its low price tag.
- Standard 1911 picatinny rail dimensions
If you’re more interested in slim, compact, carry guns such as 1911s, I have a list of the best AR-15 carry handle scopes.
Now It’s Your Turn
I hope you enjoyed my best SKS scope mount guide.
Now I want to turn it over to you:
Which scope mount will you pick for your SKS?
Let me know by leaving a quick comment down below.
I personally tried the AR Gear mount and it was trash. The front prongs were bent and the entire body was warped and ridiculously out of square. They say it will take light filing but i had to drill out the cross pin hole bend the prongs square with a hammer and do a considerable amount of filing. The mount is so far out of spec that when installed it holds the bolt so snuggly it can’t cycle.
ordered the matador arms mount hope it pulls thru, and works like its been said it does.
How did the Matador work out for you?
I usually use 9×30 scopes mounted on Chaote mounts, requiring a gun smith to drill and tap on to the SKS receiver, which are the most stable mounts for SKS till this day. Mine is 1 MOA at 100 yards.
Generally speaking, SKS receiver cover scope mounts suck because the receiver cover has wiggle play, which makes it impossible to refine the accuracy at 100 and 200 yards.
The only exception to this rule were the UTG SKS receiver cover scope mounts, which came in two forms. One with the scope rings attached and no picatinny rail, and one with tri-picatinny rails. The UTG’s receiver cover scope mount come with screws on both sides, meant to secure the scope mount to the sides of your receiver to minimize the wiggle play. The factory-included screw posts and bolts suck though. Replace them with bolts from Ace hardware, turns the UTG receiver cover scope mounts in to a very stable mount comparable to the accuracy of the Chaote drill-n-tap scope mounts. Again, my SKS using the UTG receiver cover scope mounts are also 1 MOA at 100 yards.
The UTG receiver cover scope mounts are not available now. Nearest equivalent today are the NCStar tri-rail scope mounts, which look similar. I would also suggest replacing the factory provided screw posts and bolts with simple bolts from Ace hardware, for similar results as the UTG receiver cover scope mounts.
Thank you for the great info. I pick up the Magwedge rail. Working with VX FREEDOM 3X9x40 Lupold scope. Problem is when try to get zero line with it pined it will not give anuff elevation to center line. If you pull pin and raze the rail above the hole then you have more elevation adjustment. I don’t know what to do to fix this. Any help would be appreciative.
I’m probably going to have the dust cover mount. I have a Chinese type 56 in a synthetic stock. I’d prefer the full length mount.
Which did you prefer?
The Matador or Magwedge?
I bought my 1st SKS in 1983, it was a Russian model. At the same gun show I bought a scope mount for $20 that I’ve been using ever since. And after 40 years and thousands of rounds the rifle is doing 3 inch groups with 5 rds at 150 yards. The closest one to it is the AR OEM mount or the 2nd mount shown.