Getting a clear shot starts with knowing how to mount rifle scope correctly. A poorly mounted scope will ruin your accuracy no matter how expensive your gear is. This guide gives you simple, step-by-step instructions to do it right the first time. You’ll learn what tools you need and how to avoid common mistakes. Let’s get your scope securely mounted and ready for zeroing.
How To Mount Rifle Scope
This section covers the core process. Before you start, clear a workspace and gather your tools. Patience here makes everything else easier later on.
Gather Your Tools and Components
You can’t do this job properly without the right equipment. Trying to improvise will likely damage your scope or rifle. Here’s what you need:
- A quality scope mounting kit (base and rings matched to your rifle and scope tube diameter).
- Gunsmithing screwdrivers or bits that fit the screw heads perfectly.
- A torque wrench or screwdriver designed for firearms.
- Gun cleaning solvent and degreaser.
- Thread-locking compound (like Loctite Blue).
- A gun vise or steady rest is highly recommended.
- A small level or leveling kit.
Step-by-Step Mounting Process
Follow these steps in order. Don’t rush, and double-check your work as you go.
1. Prepare the Firearm
First, ensure the rifle is completely unloaded. Remove the bolt or open the action so you can see it’s empty. Then, degrease all the mounting points on the receiver. This includes the screw holes and the surface where the base will sit. Any oil or grease here can prevent a solid mount.
2. Install the Scope Base
If your rifle doesn’t have a permanent base, you need to install one. Apply a small drop of thread-locker to the base screws. Tighten them down following the manufacturer’s recommended sequence and torque value. This is usually very low, often between 15-25 inch-pounds. Using a torque wrench is crucial to avoid stripping the threads.
3. Set the Scope in the Bottom Rings
Place the bottom halves of the rings onto the base. Now, carefully lay the scope into them. Before you tighten anything, you need to set the eye relief. Bring the rifle to your shoulder naturally. Slide the scope forward or back until you get a full, clear field of view without moving your head. This distance is critical for comfort and safety.
4. Level the Scope
This step is vital for accuracy at distance. First, level the rifle itself in your vise. Then, place a small level across the flat part of the scope’s elevation turret cap. Adjust the scope in the rings until this level reads true. Some people use plumb lines or specialized leveling tools. Take your time here—a canted scope causes missed shots.
5. Install and Torque the Top Rings
Place the top halves of the rings on. Finger-tighten all the screws evenly. Now, using your torque wrench, tighten the ring screws to the scope maker’s specification. This is typically even lower, around 15-18 inch-pounds. Over-tightening can crush the scope tube. Tighten the screws in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced shooters can slip up. Watch out for these errors:
- Overtightening screws: This is the number one cause of damage. Always use a torque wrench.
- Poor eye relief: Getting this wrong leads to bad shooting posture and scope eye.
- Forgetting thread-locker: Vibration from shooting will loosen screws over time.
- Ignoring leveling: A scope that isn’t level with the rifle will throw your windage off as you adjust elevation.
- Mixing ring halves: Always keep matched ring halves together. They are machined as a pair.
Final Checks and Next Steps
Once everything is torqued down, do a final check. Ensure the scope doesn’t move in the rings and that the reticle is level. Gently try to rotate it with your hands; it shouldn’t budge. Your scope is now mounted! The next essential step is to bore sight the rifle, followed by live-fire zeroing at the range. Remember, a perfect mount is the foundation for an accurate zero.
FAQ Section
What tools do I need to mount a rifle scope?
At a minimum, you need the correct base and rings, proper screwdrivers, a torque wrench, degreaser, and thread-locker. A gun vise and leveling tool are strongly recommended for best results.
How tight should scope ring screws be?
You must follow the manufacturers specifications. Typically, base screws are 15-25 in-lbs, and ring screws are 15-18 in-lbs. Never guess—over-tightening is a common reason scopes get damaged.
Why is my scope crooked after mounting?
A crooked reticle usually means the scope wasn’t leveled to the rifle during installation. You’ll need to losen the rings and re-level it using a proper tool. A plumb line or dedicated leveling kit works best for this.
Do I really need a torque wrench?
Yes, it’s not just a recommendation. A torque wrench is the only way to ensure consistent, safe pressure on delicate scope tubes and receiver threads. It prevents costly damage and ensures a reliable hold.
Can I mount a scope myself?
Absolutely. With the right tools, careful attention to detail, and by following these steps, most shooters can achieve a professional-quality mount at home. It’s a fundamental skill that saves money and builds familiarity with your equipment.
What is eye relief and why does it matter?
Eye relief is the distance your eye must be from the scope to see the full picture. Correct eye relief ensures a quick, clear sight picture and protects you from the scope hitting your eyebrow during recoil, an injury called “scope bite.”