How To Mount A Rifle Scope

Published on March 31, 2021
Duration: 29:11

This guide, presented by Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo, details the essential steps for properly mounting a rifle scope, focusing on an AR-15 platform. It emphasizes the importance of correct mounting hardware, tools like torque wrenches and bubble levels, and precise techniques for setting eye relief, leveling the optic, and torquing screws to prevent damage and ensure accuracy. The instruction highlights critical details such as cheek weld, recoil compensation, and the use of thread locker and witness marks for long-term reliability.

Quick Summary

Properly mounting a rifle scope involves using essential tools like a torque driver and bubble level. Key steps include ensuring the rifle is clear, setting correct eye relief at maximum magnification, torquing the mount to 35 in-lbs (for Swampfox Independence), and applying thread locker. Witness marks are crucial for verifying screw tightness.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Scope Mounting
  2. 01:40Choosing Rings and Mounts
  3. 08:30Essential Tools for Mounting
  4. 09:57Firearm Preparation and Bases
  5. 12:27Setting Eye Relief
  6. 15:06Torquing the Mount
  7. 16:30Leveling and Ring Torquing
  8. 18:27Witness Marks and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential tools needed to mount a rifle scope?

You'll need a rifle rest or gun vice, a torque driver (in inch-pounds), a small bubble level, thread locker like Purple Loctite 222, and a paint marker or nail polish for witness marks. These ensure precise and secure installation.

How do you properly set the eye relief on a rifle scope?

To set eye relief, place the scope loosely in the rings. Shoulder the rifle at maximum magnification and adjust the scope's position forward or backward until you achieve a full, crisp field of view without dark shadows at the edges.

What is the correct torque specification for mounting a scope on an AR-15?

For the Swampfox Independence mount to a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail, the specified torque is 35 in-lbs. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for both the mount and the scope rings, as ring torque is significantly lower.

Why is using thread locker and witness marks important when mounting a scope?

Thread locker prevents screws from loosening due to recoil, maintaining zero. Witness marks (paint lines) provide a quick visual check to ensure screws remain tight, indicating any potential loosening immediately.

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