Hawke Adaptor Bases
- Last updated: 21/01/2023
With so many variations of scope rail and mounting formats in circulation, it’s easy to get confused about the right gear for the job. 11mm dovetail rails may still account for a good chunk of the airgun market, but a plethora of guns are emerging that are fitted with Picatinny/ Weaver rails. As a result, all manner of dedicated rings and one-piece affairs are available in each format, to satisfy demand. Yet, for those of us who own several rifles, that may well sport different mounting systems, it can be a pain to have to use different style mounts all the time.
Many shooters own several guns but don’t necessarily want to have to buy multiple scopes. If the need arises to switch a scope from one rifle to another, this is where the problems of compatibility may well crop up. And having to switch mounts and re-zero the gun every time, is a real pain and time-consuming. A scenario where one gun has 11mm rails and the other a Picatinny rail, isn’t uncommon, and here, the use of an adaptor rail could well be the answer. Thereafter, the scope can stay in the mounts and just be clamped straight on the other gun.
Hawke Optics listens to customer feedback and has updated its product range to appeal to a wide range of shooters, and whilst their latest glassware is earning accolades along the way, less well-known is the fact that this vibrant brand also produces a wide range of accessories to get shooters out of trouble. The adaptor bases that they offer are a case in point, and with several variations in the line-up, listed below, they are clearly aimed at firearm users, as well as the airgun fraternity.
For me, of course, the pick of the crop has to be the 9-11mm | 3/8” Dovetail to Weaver spec, supplied as a 2-piece set. The shorter piece is just over 2” long (53mm), whilst the other, at 3.9” (100mm), includes an overhang. The end result is incredible versatility, since these bases can be used individually or together, and as a reach forward or reach back configuration. All necessary Allen keys are supplied and everything feels well-made, with an attractive and practical matte black finish applied.
These adaptor bases are fairly inexpensive, great value, and an invaluable tool in any shooting enthusiast’s kit bag.