Quoted:
Alright, which is a better mount, and which is easier to install? This mount or the side mount?
Also, does anyone make the side mount with 1 inch rings?
If you are referring to the PU side mount, I think I've seen them with one inch rings. Check Ebay. Not sure if Accumounts has those, or not. I don't see them listed. Having done both on restored ex-snipers, I would say that the PU side mount is much easier to install than the PE top mount, but more inletting is required on the stock. If you're referring to the PEM side mount, they don't make them with one inch rings and, if you can find them, they are about $400, just for the base/mount. I had someone else do my PEM restoration, so I can't say if it's easier/harder. I would think it would be little different than a PU mount.
Forgot to add; the PU side mount is also much more forgiving, as it's adjustable. with the PE top mount, you're pretty much screwed if you don't get it aligned/leveled properly, since there's no way to really adjust it. Making swiss cheese of a collectible military firearm is usually looked down upon.