LaRue Tactical's C.A.N. cantilever SPR scope mount couples naturally with LaRue Tactical's new Black and Tan 5.56mm rifle and Nightforce's SHV 3-10x42mm rifle scope. This particular Nightforce is considered my "loaner/test" scope, using it on numerous rifles. A couple of clicks on the mount and it fits nicely on large or small frame rifles, regardless of varying specs of 'AR-10' rifles.
July 29, 2022
By Michelle Hamilton, Field Editor
Since their wartime inception, LaRue Tactical QD optic mounts have become synonymous with quality, reliability and are known for a consistent 'return to zero', even with repetitive removals from the host rifle. With that, their locking lever adjustments always required a tool. This "cute lil wrench" as I've heard the LaRue 3/8-inch spanner affectionately called is supplied with each LaRue "legacy" mounting system . This wrench is used to initially adjust the QD lever tension, allowing for the mount to be securely locked into place onto any MIL STD 1913 “Picatinny” rail, even one not machined exactly within specifications. Once the tension is set, the wrench is not required, you just rotate the two locking levers to install or remove the mount from the rail.
LaRue Tactical’s original scope mount was developed for use by US Special Operations during the Global War on Terror. It is now offered with their C.A.N. tool-less system as seen here. Some may prefer a mount that does not require a 3/8-inch wrench for initial mount adjustments. I for one prefer a tool-less option for the majority of my accessories, especially optics and optics mounts. I guess I’m not alone as after fielding almost 1 million LaRue mounts the US military put out a solicitation specifying a mount with “tool-less adjustments”. LaRue Tactical took it in stride and responded with a new take on their well-proven military-grade Quick Detach lever system.
The Click Adjustable Nut (C.A.N.) system allows easy finger adjustments of the mounting system tension. Their new "click adjustable nut", or "C.A.N." allows finger adjustments of the mounting system tension for varying MIL STD 1913 “Picatinny” rail systems. This captured system is intuitive to use and easy to adjust, no tool required. You simply rotate the two adjustment turrets to properly set the tension on the familiar LaRue side-levers. I find this a far superior, easier and more robust adjustment system than those I am used to on competing commercial mounts, like from ADM. The LaRue design is more robust, soldier-proof and less likely to fail.
The design team of LaRue Tactical really did their homework on the interface and modularity of their SPR C.A.N. mount. The ability to easily switch from varying optic bore diameters is quite unique, allowing the users many more avenues than their competitors. Out of all the mounts I currently use, this one most reflects the modularity of the AR pattern rifle. The LaRue C.A.N. QD SPR Mount is an aluminum cantilever military grade optic mount designed for AR-15 and AR-10 type rifles. The cantilever design allows the optic to be shifted forward to provide sufficient eye relief. The design itself features a MIL STD 1913 “Picatinny” mount with two rotating QD side-levers. Machined into this base are two ring mounting points. These mounting points accept 1-inch, 30, 34 and 35mm ring. So, the mount is not specific to one ring size. You can easily swap ring size. Each scope ring features four attaching screws. These thread into steel inserts.
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Pros LaRue's unique and patented scope ring locking system not only allows the user modularity, but also a solid and robust interfacing system. I liked that the traditional LaRue locking system originally developed for US Special Operations was incorporated and not redesigned or changed. I've found this system to be the most consistent, smoothest and easiest to work with out of the quick detach mounts I’ve used to date. I also like that subtle changes can be made while initially mounting and adjusting the mount to the firearm for the first time, there is no need to constantly grab the wrench for small and final adjustments.
A comparison between LaRue’s legacy system with this MRO mount and their new C.A.N. system. Note the distinctive LaRue 3/8-inch adjusting wrench. Unlike their competitors, LaRue Tactical designed their SPR mounts to be highly modular, not only allowing the usage of micro red dots, but also varying scope diameter sizes and the C.A.N. offering is no exception. This allows the user too easily and quickly transition to different size scope tube bodies by simply changing rings. This unique design sets LaRue's scope mounts far ahead of the competition. Plus, the attaching screws thread into steel inserts not just aluminum. This makes for a substantially more robust system. The SPR mounts are likely the strongest interface I've used as well.
Cons I could see with some members of the 'gun community', the exposed adjustments being a possible 'complaint', especially for those who haven't used the system. However, the mount is locked into place with the quick detach locking levers, which provides ample tension on the entire locking system. So, the exposed design isn’t an “actual” issue.
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While minimal, I do miss the laser engraving on the base of the quick detach cam lock. The "LaRue" in the state of Texas gave the mounts a unique "flair" and worked almost as well as "showing people your 'dillo" (armadillo bottle opener). Both new mounts lacked this laser etching and while it is unnecessary, as it remains hidden 99 percent of the time, I found it unique of the brand and represented the brand quite well.
Final Thoughts Personally, I like the quick adjustments found on the C.A.N. mounts. I find them a welcome addition to an already proven, well-designed and well-executed Quick Detach system. Even with "rough" use and manipulation with a gunsmithing hammer, I could not adversely affect the pre-set adjustments made before attachment to the rifle.
A bottom view of a legacy LaRue MRO mount and the new C.A.N. SPR mount showing the side-levers that lock the mount onto the rail. I would love to see the C.A.N. option offered on more than just the SPR mount as well. This would be a nice option for MRO mounts, RMR/SRO, Micros, ACOGs and the popular defensive arms optics fielded by the majority of users. For the cantilever SPR mount reviewed here, it has a solid interface between the rifle and mount that users have come to expect from LaRue Tactical products. Overall, I am quite impressed with the quality and finish of this, as with all LaRue products I've used. Couple this with a $240 MSRP price tag, it fits snuggly in the middle between its direct competitors, as well as offerings from Geissele and SPUHR. For all the options and potential a person is receiving; I find it to be a reasonable price point. My overall impression is, LaRue C.A.N. and they did. For more information visit www.Larue.com .
If you have any thoughts or comments on this article, we’d love to hear them. Email us at FirearmsNews@Outdoorsg.com .
About the Author: Michelle Hamilton has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice/Homeland Security, is a serious student of wound ballistics, military history, small arms design and manufacturing and is a competitive shooter.
