Getting your shots to hit exactly where you aim starts with a proper scope setup. Learning how to set up scope on rifle is a fundamental skill every shooter needs. It’s not just about tightening some rings; it’s about creating a repeatable, reliable connection between your eye, the optic, and the firearm. A correctly mounted scope improves accuracy, builds confidence, and makes shooting more enjoyable. This guide will walk you through the process, step by step.
You’ll need a few tools before you begin. A set of gunsmithing screwdrivers or bits is essential to avoid stripping screw heads. A torque wrench designed for scope rings is highly recommended for consistent pressure. You’ll also need a leveling kit or a set of levels, and some cleaning supplies for the mounting surfaces. Having everything ready makes the job smoother.
How to Set Up Scope on Rifle
This process breaks down into three main phases: mounting the base and rings, installing and leveling the scope, and finally, zeroing it in. Rushing any step can lead to frustration at the range.
Phase 1: Mounting the Hardware
First, ensure your rifle is completely unloaded and the action is open. Safety is always the first step.
1. Prepare the Mounting Surfaces: Use a degreaser to clean all the contact points on your rifle’s receiver and the inside of your scope rings. Any oil or debris can cause movement later.
2. Install the Base (if required): Many rifles have a pre-drilled receiver. If yours needs a base or rail, attach it using the provided screws. A little bit of blue (removable) thread locker on the screws is a good idea, but be careful not to get any in the action. Tighten the screws evenly in a criss-cross pattern to the manufacturer’s specified torque.
3. Attach the Lower Rings: Place the lower halves of your scope rings onto the base or rail. Loosely fasten them so they can still slide. This allows you to adjust the fore-aft position of the scope later for proper eye relief.
Phase 2: Installing and Leveling the Scope
This is the most critical part for a correct setup. An unlevel scope causes canting errors, especially at longer distances.
1. Set Rough Eye Relief: With the rifle in a steady rest or gun vise, shoulder it naturally. Place the scope in the loose ring bottoms and slide it forward or back until you have a full, clear field of view without any black shadowy rings. Your eye should be about 3-4 inches from the ocular lens. This distance is your eye relief.
2. Level the Rifle: Use a leveling tool or a small bubble level placed in the action’s flat spot or on a known-level surface of the rifle. Secure the rifle so this level reads perfectly level.
3. Level the Scope: Now, place a second level across the flat top of the scope’s turret housing (the elevation adjustment cap). Carefully rotate the scope until this upper level is also perfectly level. The reticle should now be plumb with the world. Some people use a plumb line on a distant wall to visually confirm the vertical crosshair is straight.
4. Secure the Rings: Once everything is level, begin tightening the ring screws. Follow the manufacturer’s sequence—usually a diagonal pattern—and use your torque wrench. Overtightening can crush the scope tube. Most rings torque to between 15-25 inch-pounds, but always check your ring’s instructions. A common mistake is to forget the final torque check after the initial snugging.
Phase 3: Bore Sighting and Zeroing
Bore sighting gets you on paper quickly, saving time and ammo.
1. Bore Sight: Remove the bolt (if possible) or use a laser bore sighter. Look through the bare barrel and center it on a small target about 25 yards away. Without moving the rifle, adjust the scope’s windage and elevation knobs until the reticle is centered on that same target. Your scope is now roughly aligned with the barrel.
2. Fire Your First Group: At the range, set up a target at 25 yards. Fire a careful, supported 3-shot group. Don’t worry where it hits; you just need a clear group.
3. Adjust to Zero: Measure how far the group’s center is from your point of aim. Use the scope’s turrets to adjust. Most scopes move the point of impact in increments like ¼ MOA per click. For a 25-yard zero, if you’re 4 inches low, you’d need to come up a significant number of clicks (consult your scope manual). Fire another group to confirm.
4. Final Zero: Once zeroed at 25 yards, move to your desired zero distance (commonly 100 yards). Repeat the process: fire a group, measure the error, adjust the turrets, and confirm. Remember to always turn the turrets in the direction marked “UP” or “R” to move the impact point. Its easy to get this backwards in the moment.
Essential Tips for Success
* Consistency is Key: Mount the rifle the same way in the rest every time you shoot during zeroing.
* Let the Barrel Cool: A hot barrel wanders. Shoot slow, allowing time for cooling between groups.
* Mark Your Turrets: Once zeroed, you can set your turret’s zero stop or at least mark the position with tape. This lets you return to your baseline after making adjustments for distance.
* Double-Check Everything: After firing 20-30 rounds, re-check the tightness of your ring and base screws (once the barrel is cold). Sometimes they can settle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
* Using improper tools and stripping screws.
* Overtightening or unevenly tightening scope ring caps.
* Ignoring leveling, which leads to inconsistent long-range shots.
* Forgetting to apply a small amount of thread locker on base screws.
* Rushing the zeroing process with a hot barrel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does it cost to get a scope mounted?
A gunsmith typically charges between $50 and $100 to mount and bore sight a scope. Investing in your own tools can pay off after a few setups.
What is the best way to level a rifle scope?
The most reliable method is using two levels: one on a flat part of the rifle action and one on the scope’s turret. Ensuring both are bubble-level while the rifle is secured gives a true level.
How often should I check my scope’s mounting screws?
It’s a good habit to check them before a big hunting trip or after transporting your rifle. Some people check them annually. If you drop your rifle, check them immediately.
Can I mount a scope without a torque wrench?
While possible, it’s not recommended. Guessing the torque can lead to damaged scopes or screws that work loose. A proper wrench ensures even, correct pressure.
What does “eye relief” mean and why is it important?
Eye relief is the distance your eye must be from the rear lens to see the full picture. Correct eye relief prevents scope eye—the scope hitting your brow during recoil—and ensures a quick, clear sight picture.
Setting up your rifle scope correctly takes patience and attention to detail, but the reward is a rifle that shoots true. By following these steps, you’ll build a solid foundation for accuracy. Remember, a good shot starts with good preparation. Now that your scope is set, you’re ready to hit the range with confidence.