So you’ve finally decided to replace the stock rifle scope that comes with your ol’ reliable sharpshooter and try scope mounting.
Maybe the old rifle scope started conking out, maybe you just happen to get a great new scope on a deal.
Nevertheless, getting a new scope is an exciting time for hunters and sharpshooters alike.
As such, we hope to help you through the basic steps of getting your new rifle scope set up with your rifle. Keep reading for tips on how to mount a scope.
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What You’ll Need to Mount a Rifle Scope
Preparation goes a long way when modifying anything regarding firearms and learning how to mount a scope.
So before you get started fiddling with all the different base screws and start to mount a scope, you’ll need the following basic tools and additional attachments.
Basic Tools & Mounting Hardware
The standard tools for any gunsmith who wants to mount a scope are as follows:
- Torque screwdriver
- Gunsmithing screwdrivers set
- Rosin
- Electrician’s tape
- Scope Level/Bubble Level
- Gun cradle/Gun vise/Gun Mount
- Removable thread locker (avoid using Loctite)
Why you need these parts to mount a scope:
- The torque wrench, along with the gunsmithing screwdrivers, will definitely help tighten the ring screws.
- The dowel rods will help torque dovetail rings to place while rosin will keep the scope in the rings without too much movement.
- The Gun cradle/vise/mount is important to stabilize your rifle while working on it. Make sure you find a flat spot to work on to properly get your scope leveled.
- Lastly, a thread locker for screw threads is useful to make sure that the screws remain secure in the screw holes. However, make sure you use a removable thread locker, as permanent ones like blue Loctite can be a headache to remove when you need to make some adjustments.
Once you’ve collected all the following, you’ll also need the following key parts alongside the scope proper: the scope base and the scope rings.
The Scope Base: One Piece vs. Two Piece Types
A scope base is basically the foundation of your rifle set-up.
If you are spending all your time picking out a quality scope, you’ll need to make sure you’ll have a quality scope base as well.
Most bases come in two variants: one-piece and two-piece bases.
- A one-piece base is, as the name suggests, a rifle base that comes in a single continuous construction. Because it’s a single body, you’re guaranteed more stability with each shot; useful for long-range shots using heavy rifle scopes and/or heavy-calibered rifles.
- Two-piece scope bases, on the other hand, are more versatile when it comes to dealing with a bolt-action rifle.
Normally these would have the bolt cartridge positioned near where the scope would be, so a two-piece base for bolt-action rifles would allow you to leave that area clear while mounting a rifle scope.
Scope Rings
After you get your scope base, make sure to get some quality scope rings that FIT just right with the scope you have.
Want a good point of reference?
Pick rings with the right circumference and height that position the scope body closest to the rifle body.
This will help you keep sighted accuracy, especially when sighting a new rifle scope.
For added assistance, you can look to get a scope ring alignment lapping kit. This will make sure that your scope rings are properly aligned to keep your scope tube aligned.
Mounting a Rifle Scope: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now it’s time to see how to mount your new rifle scope.
We’ll be explaining how riflescopes work and will walk you through the basic process of mounting your rifle scope (as well as the additional steps you’ll want to take to make sure your scope is accurate for rifle shooting.)
Step 1: Rifle Mount and Scope Base Installation
First things first.
Position your rifle on a gun mount on a flat surface. Make sure your rifle is unloaded for extra safety.
SERIOUSLY. Check it ahead of time.
Install the scope base on your rifle.
Again, depending on your rifle, you’ll be using one-piece or two-piece scope bases (i.e., you probably have a one-piece mount if you’re using M1A scope base mounts)
For this quick guide, we will assume you’re using a one-piece scope base.
Gun oil can be useful to help lubricate any contact areas.
RECAP: We mentioned that a thread locker would be useful in keeping the screws from going loose through long use or heavy recoils, so make sure you have some on hand now.
Next, follow this guide:
- Secure the screws (especially each base screw) to the rifle body and secure it more with your removable thread locker.
- Tighten the screws and ensure they’re all flush so no protruding screws will affect your scope level.
- Use a bubble level to make sure your base is installed level and flat. This starting foundation is key to get right as it will dictate all the additional parts that will follow.
Once you’ve gotten your scope base installed, you can move on to the installation of the scope rings.