Learning how to set a scope on a rifle is a fundamental skill for any shooter. Doing it correctly is what makes the difference between hitting your target and missing completely. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from mounting to final zeroing. We’ll use simple language and clear steps, so you can get it right the first time.
How To Set A Scope On A Rifle
Proper scope installation involves three main phases: mounting the base and rings, levelling and attaching the scope, and finally zeroing it in. Rushing any step can lead to frustration at the range. Let’s start with the tools and parts you’ll need.
Gathering Your Tools and Equipment
Before you begin, collect everything. This prevents you from having to stop halfway through.
- Your rifle and your new scope.
- Scope mounting base and rings (matched to your rifle and scope tube diameter).
- Gunsmithing screwdrivers or bits that fit perfectly.
- A torque wrench (in inch-pounds) is highly recommended.
- Threadlocking compound like blue Loctite.
- A bubble level or a specific scope levelling kit.
- A gun vise or steady rest is very helpful but not always essential.
Step 1: Mounting the Base to the Rifle
First, ensure the rifle is unloaded. Then, attach the base to the receiver. Clean the screw holes and threads with a degreaser. Apply a small drop of blue Loctite to the base screws. Tighten them evenly in a criss-cross pattern, finishing with the torque wrench to the manufacturer’s specification. Over-tightening can strip the threads.
Step 2: Setting Eye Relief and Rough Leveling
Now, place the scope in the rings (but don’t attach the top halves yet). Position the rifle in your shoulder as you normally would. Slide the scope forward or back until you get a full, clear field of view with no dark edges—this is your eye relief. While holding it, have a friend check if the scope looks level with the rifle’s action. This is just a rough alignment to make the next step easier.
Why Eye Relief Matters
Correct eye relief is critical for safety and consistency. Too short, and the scope may hit your eye during recoil. Too long, and you’ll struggle to see the full picture. Take your time to find the sweet spot for your shooting position.
Step 3: Levelling the Scope Precisely
This is the most important step for accuracy. A canted scope causes misses that get worse with distance.
- Place the rifle solidly in a vise or rest.
- Use a levelling tool on a flat part of the receiver or the base itself.
- Now, place a small bubble level across the flat part of the scope’s elevation turret (the top adjustment).
- Gently rotate the scope until the bubble is centered. The scope is now level with the rifle.
Step 4: Securing the Scope Rings
With the scope level, carefully place the top halves of the rings. Finger-tighten the screws to hold everything. Begin tightening the crossbolts (the ones that go sideways) gradually and alternately, just like lug nuts on a car tire. This pulls the scope down evenly without twisting it. Then, tighten the cap screws (the vertical ones). Use your torque wrench for all final tightening to avoid crushing the scope tube.
Step 5: Bore Sighting to Get on Paper
Bore sighting gets your first shot close to the target, saving ammo. You can use a laser bore sighter or do it visually.
- Remove the bolt (if possible) and look directly down the bore from the breech end.
- Center a target object in the bore.
- Without moving the rifle, look through the scope.
- Adjust the windage and elevation turrets until the crosshairs are centered on that same object.
Step 6: The Live-Fire Zeroing Process
Now, go to the range. Set up a target at 25 yards to start. Fire a careful, supported 3-shot group. See where the group lands relative to your point of aim.
- Identify the center of your shot group.
- Adjust the windage knob to move the crosshairs left or right toward the center of the group.
- Adjust the elevation knob to move the crosshairs up or down.
- Fire another 3-shot group to confirm. Repeat until centered at 25 yards.
- Move your target to 100 yards (or your desired zero distance) and repeat the process.
Remember, the adjustment direction is usually marked on the turrets. “UP” means the point of impact will move up. But always verify by firing after each adjustment.
Final Checks and Common Mistakes
After zeroing, do a final check. Ensure all ring and base screws are still tight (re-torque if needed). Practice mounting the rifle quickly to ensure you naturally find the full sight picture everytime. A common mistake is not using a torque wrench, leading to loose screws or damaged equipment. Another is forgetting to level the scope properly, which hurts long-range accuracy.
FAQ: Your Scope Mounting Questions Answered
How often should I check my scope’s zero?
You should check it at the start of a new shooting season, after transporting your rifle roughly, or if you notice any unexpected changes in point of impact. Its a good habit to confirm zero before an important hunt or competition.
What does “MOA” mean on my scope adjustments?
MOA stands for Minute of Angle. One MOA is roughly 1 inch at 100 yards. So, if your scope has 1/4 MOA clicks, each click will move the point of impact about 1/4 inch at 100 yards.
Can I mount a scope myself without special tools?
While you can try with basic screwdrivers, it’s not recommended. A proper torque wrench and good drivers prevent over-tightening and ensure a secure, reliable mount that won’t shift under recoil. Its worth the investment.
Why is my scope still not zeroing after many adjustments?
If you’re making large adjustments but the impact isn’t changing predictably, check that the scope rings are tight and the scope isn’t moving inside them. Also, ensure the rifle’s base is securely attached. Faulty ammunition or a damaged barrel crown can also cause this issue.
What is the difference between a one-piece and two-piece scope mount?
A one-piece base offers more rigidity and is often preferred for precision shooting. Two-piece bases are traditional and can sometimes make it easier to load a rifle with a hinged floorplate, as they leave more of the receiver exposed.
Mastering how to set a scope on a rifle takes patience, but the reward is a perfectly tuned system. With your scope mounted level, secure, and zeroed, you can shoot with confidence, knowing that any miss is likely due to shooter error, not equipment failure. Now get out there and practice.