While it seems that mounting a scope should be easy, if you miss a few steps, it can become a nightmare.
Even though mounting also takes on a different perspective depending on whether we’re hunting, plinking, or competing, they all start the same way.
Steps on How to Mount a Scope
Whether it’s learning how to mount a scope on an AR15 or a Ruger, the core steps are the same. Each one impacts how well the scope sits on our rifle.
1. Check the Threads
Riflescope mounts depend on the screw threads to be clean and in good shape. If they’re not clean and instead covered in oil, residue, or anything else that could keep the scope from mounting, it’s a problem waiting to happen.
If you notice the threads aren’t clean, it’s best to clean them with a microfiber cloth to get rid of the debris. Clean the threads thoroughly so the screws will fit properly.
2. Mount the Rings
After the threads have been checked, it’s time to mount the rings. The rings must be done precisely when preparing to mount a scope or sight.
Having an eye for alignment is crucial in getting this step correct. If you aren’t sure about your capabilities, there are scope mounting kits available to be confident that the rings are perfectly lined up.
3. Proper Torque is Crucial
Depending on the rings, scope, or sight that we’re installing, the torque can change. For the mount to be secure, it has to be tight enough that it won’t move as a result of the recoil.
Torque ranges from 15 inches per pound upwards of over 65 inches per pound necessary to stabilize a scope or a sight. The best thing is to check with the manufacturer to ensure we have the right amount of torque not only to hold the scope but to also keep it from getting damaged.
4. Don’t Forget Adjusting Scopes for Eye Relief
When we forget to adjust for eye relief, we risk getting smacked in the face by the scope upon shooting.
Eye relief is simply the distance from our eyes to the preferred field of view or FOV. We want to make sure that our eyes are a safe distance from the edge of the scope without compromising FOV, so finding the right adjustment takes time and practice.
The Consequences of Improper Mounting
When it comes to learning how to mount a rifle scope, there are potential dangers both to you and your equipment if it isn’t installed correctly.
For one, if the threads aren’t clean, we could face stripping the screws or at least wearing down the threads prematurely. Should that happen, even if the scope seems secure, one good recoil could loosen the entire scope assembly.
If it gets loose, then we’re looking at damaged equipment like the lenses, the various dials, and the mounting assembly.
The same could be said for not precisely mounting the scope. A scope that is off-center of the rifle can cause improper shooting leading to potential injury since our shots wouldn’t go in the right direction.
When it comes to torque, if it’s not tight enough, the entire thing could fly off and hit you in the face, potentially causing significant injury.
Extra Steps When Issues Arise
Occasionally, we use rifles that may have belonged to other people and come across issues like cross-threading. Cross-threading happens when other people are not familiar with how to properly mount a scope.
Other issues like over-tightened screws or using the wrong adhesive can occur, too. When we see it, some extra steps need to be taken to make the receiver threads usable again.
Removing problem screws or rings is best left up to a gunsmith. Without proper training or knowledge, it’s incredibly easy to ruin the firearm. When in doubt, seek out a pro.