You're Mounting Your Scope To Low?

Published on June 25, 2022
Duration: 5:56

This video from Banana Ballistics explains that while traditionally scopes are mounted as low as possible, a higher scope mount can offer advantages. A higher scope mount requires less elevation adjustment for longer range shots, saving valuable turret clicks. The video details how scope height affects bullet drop compensation and discusses factors like objective lens size and barrel contour that may necessitate higher mounts. Drawbacks include potential loss of a consistent cheek weld on non-adjustable stocks and increased snagging potential in brush.

Quick Summary

Mounting your rifle scope higher can offer advantages, primarily by reducing the amount of elevation adjustment needed for long-range shots. For every quarter inch of added scope height, you can save approximately a quarter inch of adjustment per 100 yards, assuming a 100-yard zero. However, consider factors like cheek weld and potential snagging.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Scope Mounting Height
  2. 00:20Defining Scope Height
  3. 01:17Common Scope Ring Configurations
  4. 01:45Why Mount a Scope Higher?
  5. 02:10Real-World Example: Bullet Drop Comparison
  6. 03:37How Scope Height Affects Trajectory
  7. 04:20Other Reasons for Higher Mounts
  8. 04:41Drawbacks of High Scope Mounts
  9. 05:27Conclusion: When to Mount High

Frequently Asked Questions

What is scope height and how is it measured?

Scope height is the distance from the center of the rifle's bore to the center of the scope. On bolt-action rifles, the gas port, which is in line with the bore, can serve as a reference point for measurement.

What is the main advantage of mounting a scope higher?

Mounting a scope higher generally requires less elevation adjustment for longer range shots. For every quarter inch of added scope height, you can save about a quarter inch of adjustment per 100 yards.

What factors might necessitate a higher scope mount?

Larger objective lens diameters on scopes and the contour of the rifle's barrel, such as a bull barrel, may require a higher mount to ensure clearance and prevent interference.

What are the disadvantages of mounting a scope too high?

A significant drawback is the potential for a poor cheek weld on rifles without adjustable combs, leading to parallax error. High mounts can also increase snagging potential on brush.

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