When putting a scope on a rifle, it is critical to ensure that the scope rings are properly tightened. Tightening scope rings too loosely can cause the scope to shift during usage while tightening them too tightly might cause the scope or the rifle to be damaged.
To guarantee uniformity and avoid over-tightening, tighten your scope rings with a torque wrench. The suggested torque setting varies by manufacturer, but it is usually between 15 and 25-inch pounds.
Start tightening the scope rings with the bottom screws and work your way up, alternating between screws in a criss-cross manner. This ensures consistent pressure and protects the scope.
After tightening the scope rings, carefully move the scope in multiple directions to assess the tightness. If the scope moves, the rings are probably too loose and must be tightened even further. If the scope does not move, it has most likely been tightened to the proper level. Examine the scope and the rifle for evidence of damage or tension after tightening the scope rings. If you detect any problems, stop using the scope right once and seek expert assistance.
Furthermore, many experts advise that while mounting the scope on the rings, it should be no closer than 3/8″ from the magnification adjustment rings located on the back, center, or slightly in front of the center of the scope tube.
What Is the Significance of Tightening In Scope Rings?
If your rings are too loose, your scope will slip in the rings when hit, bumped, or vibrated. Remember that your scope is a precise instrument, and even a small change can throw your point of contact off by inches or feet, costing you a clean shot or causing a miss.
If the screws are overly tight, they might harm your scope, or they can peel, making removal difficult to impossible. That is why scope manufacturers include torque recommendations for scope rings. With smaller weight scopes and thinner tubes, they can be as low as 15 inch-lbs. Always check the torque specifications of your scope’s manufacturer.
How Can You Tighten Your Scope Rings?
To tighten scope rings:
Collect the following tools
- Vise
- Hex wrench or screwdriver/ torque driver
- Mounting base
- Levels (optional)
Take the scope from the rings
To avoid damage to the scope, remove the scope from the rings before tightening the rings.
Apply thread locker
Before putting the screws into the rings, apply a little quantity of thread locker to the threads. This will assist in keeping the screws in place and preventing them from backing out over time.
Tighten the screws
Tighten each screw a little at a time, alternating between screws in a criss-cross manner. Verify the manufacturer’s suggested torque setting and tighten the screws to the right level using the torque wrench.
Tightness testing
After tightening the screws, carefully move the scope in different directions to assess the tightness. If the scope moves, the rings are probably too loose and need to be tightened even further. If the scope does not move, it has most likely been tightened to the proper level.
Replace the scope
After tightening the rings to the desired level, reinstall the scope and confirm that it is properly aligned and leveled.
FAQs
What happens if I tighten the scope rings too much?
Tightening the scope rings too tightly might harm the sight or the weapon. It can also cause the scope to be misaligned or have an impact on its precision.
Is it possible to tighten scope rings without even a torque wrench?
While tightening scope rings without a torque wrench is doable, employing one ensures uniformity and prevents over-tightening. It is advised that you use a torque wrench to check that the scope rings are properly tightened.
Can old scope ring screws be reused?
Reusing old scope ring screws is not recommended since they can become worn or damaged over time. Installing new screws assures a stable and safe rifle scope mount.
How often should I check the tightness of my scope rings?
It is advised that you check the tightness of your scope rings after each usage. This confirms that the rings are still secure and that the scope is aligned and leveled appropriately.
How can I know if my scope rings are too tight?
If the scope moves while you try to adjust it or fire the rifle, the scope rings are probably too loose and have to be tightened even further. To guarantee a stable and safe attachment for your rifle sight, inspect for tightness after tightening the rings.
Conclusion
Finally, tightening scope rings is a vital step in rifle scope mounting. It is critical to establish the proper amount of tightness to provide a secure and safe installation for your sight while avoiding damage to the scope or the firearm.
Using a screwdriver, tightening the screws in a crisscross pattern, and checking for tightness are all necessary procedures to verify that the scope rings are properly fastened.
To preserve the lifetime and dependability of your scope mount, check the rings for tightness after each usage and use fresh screws. You can assure a safe and accurate rifle scope mount by following our suggestions.
