Enhancing Your Thompson/Center Hawken: The Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru Scope Mount

For any traditional muzzleloader enthusiast who owns or is considering acquiring a Thompson/Center Arms Hawken rifle, a common question arises: "How can I enhance my rifle's accuracy and versatility without sacrificing its classic aesthetic or the utility of its iron sights?" The pursuit of precision in the field, whether for hunting or target shooting, often leads to considering optics. However, the unique design of muzzleloaders and the desire to maintain their historical appeal can present a challenge for scope mounting. This is where a specialized solution like the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru TCA Hawken Black Mount becomes an indispensable accessory, providing a bridge between traditional shooting and modern optical enhancement.

Are you looking for a reliable way to mount a scope on your Thompson/Center Hawken rifle while still being able to use your existing open sights for quick shots or in situations where a scope isn't ideal? This innovative mounting system is meticulously engineered to address that exact need, offering unparalleled flexibility for muzzleloader owners. It’s designed specifically for the TC Hawken, ensuring a perfect fit and robust performance.

Unlocking Enhanced Accuracy: The Kwik-Site KSHAWKN Advantage

The core value proposition of the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru TCA Hawken Black Mount lies in its "see-thru" design. What exactly does "see-thru" mean, and why is it so beneficial for a muzzleloader like the Hawken? In simple terms, this mounting system positions the scope high enough above the rifle's barrel and receiver that it creates a clear line of sight underneath the scope and through the existing iron sights. This ingenious design means you don't have to choose between using a scope for long-range precision or relying on traditional open sights for close quarters or fast target acquisition. You get the best of both worlds, seamlessly switching between your preferred aiming method depending on the situation.

Imagine a scenario in the field: you've sighted in your rifle with a high-magnification scope using the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN mount, ready for a precise shot at a distant target. Suddenly, a closer opportunity presents itself, too near for comfortable scope use, or perhaps the optics fog up unexpectedly. With this mount, you can instantly drop your cheek, look under the scope, and utilize your factory iron sights without any adjustments or removal of equipment. This dual functionality is invaluable for hunters who face varied terrain and target distances, or for target shooters who enjoy the challenge of both scoped and open-sight shooting.

Designed for the Thompson/Center Hawken: A Perfect Partnership

The Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru TCA Hawken Black Mount is not a generic scope mount. It is precisely manufactured to integrate flawlessly with the unique contours and screw hole patterns of the Thompson/Center Arms Hawken rifle. This dedicated engineering ensures:

• Optimal Fit: No modifications to your rifle are required. The mount aligns perfectly with existing factory drilled and tapped holes, making installation straightforward.
• Superior Stability: A precise fit minimizes any movement or play, which is absolutely critical for maintaining zero and ensuring consistent accuracy shot after shot, particularly important for muzzleloaders with their unique recoil characteristics.
• Aesthetic Integration: The sleek black finish of the mount complements the classic appearance of the Hawken rifle, ensuring that the addition of optics doesn't detract from its traditional charm. It looks like it was always meant to be there, not an afterthought.

Key Features and What They Mean for You

When evaluating scope mounts for your precious Hawken, certain features stand out. The Kwik-Site KSHAWKN is built with these considerations at its core:

• See-Thru Design: As discussed, this is the paramount feature, allowing simultaneous use of scope and iron sights. It offers unmatched versatility in varied shooting conditions.
• Durable Construction: Crafted from robust materials, this mount is designed to withstand the recoil of muzzleloaders and the rigors of outdoor use. Its resilience ensures longevity and consistent performance in all weather conditions.
• Black Finish: The durable black finish provides corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface, which is crucial for hunters aiming to remain concealed.
• Weaver Style Base: This mount typically features a Weaver-style base, a widely accepted and highly versatile standard for attaching scope rings. This compatibility ensures you can select from a vast array of scope rings and optics available on the market, giving you flexibility in your choice of scope.
• Easy Installation: Designed for user-friendly installation, it typically requires only basic tools, allowing you to quickly get your scope mounted and sighted in without needing professional assistance. This is a significant advantage for those who prefer to customize their firearms at home.

Why Choose a Dedicated Mount for Your Muzzleloader?

Generic scope mounts might fit, but they rarely offer the specific advantages of a purpose-built system like the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN. Muzzleloaders, especially traditional models like the Hawken, have distinct characteristics that demand specialized solutions:

• Recoil Management: Muzzleloaders can produce significant recoil. A dedicated mount is engineered to absorb and distribute this energy effectively, preventing your scope from shifting or losing zero.
• Barrel and Sighting Plane Alignment: Traditional muzzleloaders often have different barrel profiles and sight heights compared to modern cartridge rifles. The Kwik-Site KSHAWKN is designed with these specific dimensions in mind, ensuring proper scope alignment and eye relief.
• Maintaining Heritage: For many, the Hawken is more than just a firearm; it's a piece of history. This mount allows you to modernize its capabilities without permanently altering its classic lines or functionality.

Enhancing Your Shooting Experience: Practical Applications

Consider the practical benefits this mount brings to your shooting endeavors:

1. Increased Effective Range: With a properly mounted and zeroed scope, you can confidently engage targets at longer distances than with iron sights alone. This expands your hunting opportunities and improves your performance at the range.
2. Improved Low-Light Performance: Scopes gather more light than iron sights, making them invaluable during dawn or dusk, when game is most active or when target visibility is reduced. The Kwik-Site KSHAWKN allows you to leverage this advantage while still having your irons as a backup.
3. Enhanced Precision: Scopes provide magnification, allowing for more precise aim points and reducing parallax errors. This translates directly into tighter groups on target and more ethical shots in the field.
4. Versatility for Different Conditions: Whether you're in dense brush where quick, close shots are common, or open country demanding long-range accuracy, the ability to switch between aiming methods instantly provides unparalleled tactical flexibility.
5. Reduced Eye Strain: Focusing on small iron sights can be fatiguing. A scope offers a clearer, magnified image, reducing eye strain during extended shooting sessions.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

While the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru TCA Hawken Black Mount is designed for ease of installation, understanding a few key points can ensure optimal performance:

• Refer to Instructions: Always consult the manufacturer's specific installation instructions that come with the mount.
• Proper Tools: Use appropriate screwdrivers (often flathead or Hex/Allen keys, depending on the screws) that fit snugly to prevent stripping screw heads.
• Torque Specifications: If torque specifications are provided for the mounting screws, adhere to them. Over-tightening can damage the mount or your rifle; under-tightening can lead to instability. A torque wrench is a valuable tool for this.
• Leveling: When mounting your scope to the base, ensure it is level to avoid canting, which can negatively impact accuracy. Tools like scope leveling kits can assist with this.
• Loctite (Optional but Recommended): A small amount of non-permanent thread locker (like blue Loctite) on the mounting screws can prevent them from loosening due due to recoil over time. Apply sparingly.
• Regular Checks: Periodically check all screws for tightness, especially after the first few shooting sessions, to ensure everything remains secure.
• Cleaning: Keep the mount clean from dirt, debris, and corrosion. A simple wipe down after use, especially in wet conditions, will prolong its life.

Choosing the Right Scope for Your Setup

With the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru TCA Hawken Black Mount providing a solid foundation, you have the freedom to select a scope that best suits your needs. Consider:

• Magnification: For muzzleloaders, scopes with a modest variable magnification (e.g., 2-7x, 3-9x) are often ideal, offering versatility for both closer and medium-range shots.
• Objective Lens Size: A larger objective lens gathers more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions. However, remember the "see-thru" design means the scope will already be sitting higher.
• Eye Relief: Ensure the scope you choose has comfortable eye relief that works with the mount's height and your natural shooting position.
• Reticle: Standard duplex reticles are excellent for general use, while specialized reticles with holdover points can be useful for varying distances.
• Durability: Choose a scope that is shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof, matching the ruggedness of the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN mount itself.

The Trust Factor: Why Kwik-Site?

Kwik-Site has a long-standing reputation in the firearms accessory market for producing reliable and well-engineered products. Their focus on precision and understanding the specific needs of different firearms users, particularly in the traditional muzzleloader segment, makes them a trusted choice. The KSHAWKN mount is a testament to this commitment, offering a specialized solution that enhances performance without compromising the integrity or classic appeal of your Thompson/Center Hawken. When you invest in a Kwik-Site product, you are choosing a brand known for durable, functional designs.

For those dedicated to preserving the heritage of their Hawken while embracing the undeniable advantages of modern optics, the Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru TCA Hawken Black Mount is not just an accessory; it's an essential upgrade. It ensures your rifle is ready for any challenge, whether you rely on the tried-and-true iron sights or the precision of a magnified optic. This dual-purpose functionality ensures you're always prepared, offering peace of mind and significantly improving your success rates in the field or on the range. This high-quality, purpose-built mount is available through reputable suppliers like DEGuns, ensuring you receive an authentic product backed by excellent service.

Feature	Description	UPC (KSHAWKN)
Product Name	Kwik-Site KSHAWKN See-Thru TCA Hawken Black Scope Mount	034874000305
Compatibility	Specifically designed for Thompson/Center Arms Hawken Muzzleloader
Mounting Style	See-Thru (allows use of iron sights underneath scope)
Base Type	Weaver Style
Color/Finish	Black
Material	Durable Metal Alloy
Primary Benefit	Enhanced accuracy with dual iron sight/scope capability
Availability	DEGuns / deguns.com