How To Mount A Riflescope - OpticsPlanet.com

Published on April 24, 2014
Duration: 37:48

This comprehensive guide details the professional process of mounting a riflescope on a bolt-action rifle. It covers selecting appropriate bases (one-piece vs. two-piece, dual dovetail), preparing the receiver, installing and torquing bases and rings, lapping rings for perfect scope contact, setting eye relief, and bore sighting. The video emphasizes meticulous attention to detail, proper torque values, and alignment techniques for optimal accuracy and scope longevity.

Quick Summary

Proper riflescope mounting involves preparing the receiver, installing bases with correct torque (30 in-lbs for steel bases), aligning rings using bars, lapping rings for 100% contact, and setting eye relief at maximum magnification for a full field of view.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Equipment Overview
  2. 01:15Selecting Mounting Bases
  3. 04:26One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Bases
  4. 05:50Receiver Preparation & Degreasing
  5. 11:08Installing and Torquing Bases
  6. 15:42Ring Installation and Alignment
  7. 21:12Lapping the Rings
  8. 27:30Setting Eye Relief and Leveling
  9. 32:49Final Ring Torquing
  10. 35:03Bore Sighting Methods

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended torque values for mounting a riflescope?

For steel bases, torque screws to 30 inch-pounds. For steel rings, tighten ring screws to 15-20 inch-pounds. Aluminum rings typically require 10-15 inch-pounds. Always consult manufacturer specifications for your specific mounting system.

How do you ensure rifle scope rings are properly aligned?

Use 1-inch alignment bars inserted into the rings. If the points of the bars do not meet perfectly, gently tap the rings with a wooden mallet until they are parallel to the rifle's bore, preventing scope damage.

What is the purpose of lapping rifle scope rings?

Lapping removes high spots inside the scope rings, ensuring 100% surface contact with the scope tube. This prevents stress on the scope, maintains optical integrity, and ensures consistent mounting.

How do you determine the correct eye relief for a riflescope?

Set the scope to its highest magnification. Shoulder the rifle naturally and slide the scope forward or backward in the rings until you achieve a full, clear field of view without seeing scope shadow.

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