How to Select and Mount the Nearly Perfect Safari Rifle Scope | MidwayUSA Gunsmithing

Published on October 11, 2013
Duration: 2:50

This guide details the expert process for selecting and mounting a nearly perfect scope for a safari rifle, emphasizing the Leupold VX-7 1.5x6 power scope and its quick-detachable mounting system. It covers crucial steps like receiver preparation, screw degreasing, precise torque settings for bases and rings, and proper scope positioning to ensure optimal eye relief and prevent scope cuts. The instruction highlights the importance of specific tools and techniques for a secure and reliable optic installation.

Quick Summary

For safari hunting, a low-power scope with a wide field of view, like the Leupold VX-7 1.5x6, is nearly perfect. It offers excellent peripheral vision at 1.5x and sufficient magnification for 300-yard shots at 6x, while its generous eye relief prevents scope cuts.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Safari Scopes vs. Open Sights
  2. 00:10Quick Detachable Mounting System
  3. 00:20Leupold QD System Mechanism
  4. 00:30Scope Preference and Low Power
  5. 00:49Low Power Field of View
  6. 00:54High Power Performance
  7. 01:06Generous Eye Relief
  8. 01:12Mounting Preparation
  9. 01:22Screw Degreasing
  10. 01:30Base Installation and Torque
  11. 01:41Low Ring Selection
  12. 01:53Ring Installation
  13. 02:03Scope Placement for Eye Relief
  14. 02:09Avoiding Scope Cuts
  15. 02:19Leveling and Final Torque
  16. 02:36Conclusion on Scope Perfection

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal scope for thick bush safari hunting?

For dangerous game like buffalo or elephant in thick bush, open sights are often preferred. However, a low-power scope with a wide field of view, such as the Leupold VX-7 1.5x6, can serve as a nearly perfect compromise for safari rifles.

What are the key features of a good safari rifle scope?

A good safari rifle scope should offer a wide field of view at low power, comparable to open sights, and possess generous eye relief (over 4.5 inches) to prevent injuries from heavy recoil. It should also provide adequate magnification for longer shots when needed.

What torque values are recommended for mounting a rifle scope?

When mounting bases, torque screws to 30 inch-pounds. For the scope ring screws, a torque of 15 inch-pounds is recommended to avoid damaging the scope tube. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.

Why is degreasing screws important for scope mounting?

Degreasing mounting screws and receiver holes is crucial to prevent them from backing out under the stress of heavy recoil. This ensures the scope remains securely mounted and maintains its zero.

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