How to mount your scope correctly
Mount your rifle scope with precision and peace of mind. Discover how matched scope rings and proper torque can reduce optic stress and improve accuracy.
Mounting a rifle scope may appear to be a straightforward task, but doing it correctly is far more critical—and nuanced—than simply bolting it onto your rifle. Proper scope mounting is foundational for consistent accuracy and long-term reliability. When done carelessly, it can lead to internal scope damage, unpredictable shot placement, or even voided warranties. But when done right, it creates a rock-solid system that holds zero through recoil, rough weather, and extended field use.
This comprehensive guide walks you through how to mount a scope with minimal stress on the optic tube. By using matched scope rings, applying proper torque, and following a series of simple but precise steps, you can ensure your optic is secured with care and confidence.
Why Scope Mounting Matters
Your rifle’s receiver is built from robust, often forged steel, but your scope is a far more delicate instrument. Encased in a lightweight aluminium tube, a rifle optic houses a complex mix of lenses, springs, and adjustment mechanisms—all of which demand precise alignment. The rings that mount your scope are the critical link between these two very different components. When improperly installed, they can create distortions, stress, or shifting that compromise performance and even shorten the life of your optic.
Common issues caused by improper mounting include:
· Over-tightened ring caps: Excessive torque can crush or dent the scope tube, damaging internal mechanisms.
· Misaligned rings: Poor alignment can twist or torque the optic, impairing its internal tracking and precision.
· Uneven clamping pressure: This can cause the scope to drift during recoil or shift over time, causing you to lose zero.
These problems aren't just minor annoyances—they can significantly reduce the performance of your setup and may require professional repair or replacement. Proper scope mounting protects your investment and ensures reliable, repeatable shooting results.
What Are Matched Rings—and Why Should You Use Them?
Matched scope rings are a step above the standard, mass-produced sets commonly sold in pairs. These rings are precision-machined and finished together as a unit, meaning their alignment is far more consistent out of the box. While two separate rings might individually seem fine, even slight differences in height or bore angle can introduce misalignment, especially when tightened.
Benefits of using matched rings include:
· Improved alignment: Minimizes internal stress on the scope tube and optics.
· Even pressure distribution: Helps maintain zero over time by preventing any one area from bearing excessive force.
· Better fit with less torque: Because matched rings are more precise, you don’t need to over-tighten to achieve a secure hold.
Some high-end matched rings even feature unfinished interior surfaces, which increase grip through friction without damaging the scope’s finish. This approach provides a firm yet gentle hold—perfect for securing expensive optics without risking damage.
Wet Mounting: A Simple Trick for Better Torque Control
One of the most overlooked but effective techniques in scope mounting is “wet mounting.” This simply involves applying a small amount of high-quality grease to the ring screws and clamp surfaces prior to tightening. Professional gunsmiths and precision shooters often swear by this trick, as it helps ensure that your torque wrench readings translate into actual clamping force—not lost effort overcoming dry-thread friction.
Advantages of wet mounting include:
· Smoother, more controlled installation
· More accurate torque application
· Lower risk of over-tightening and stripping screws
You don’t need much—just a small dab of firearm-specific grease (like those used on bolt lugs or trigger assemblies) on each screw and mating surface is enough to do the job.
Step-by-Step: How to Mount Your Scope the Right Way
Follow these steps carefully to mount your scope securely and with minimal stress on the optic tube. Patience and precision now will pay off for thousands of rounds down the line.
1. Install the Rings Loosely Begin by loosely attaching the rings to the rifle’s mounting rail. If you're using a matched set, make sure each ring stays paired with its original counterpart to preserve the factory alignment. Position them roughly where you expect the scope to sit, but don’t tighten them down just yet.
2. Apply Grease to Threads and Clamp Surfaces Lightly coat the screw threads and clamp surfaces with firearm grease. This will help ensure smooth tightening and more accurate torque application without over-stressing the components.
3. Set the Scope and Adjust Eye Relief Place the scope gently into the rings. Slide it back and forth until you find the ideal position for eye relief. To fine-tune this, use the rifle’s highest magnification setting, which narrows the exit pupil and makes it easier to see when your eye is properly positioned.
4. Adjust Ring Spacing and Scope Height Make sure the rings are spaced to provide even support along the optic tube, ideally avoiding turret
housings or other non-uniform sections. Keep approximately 1/4” clearance between the scope and barrel, handguard, or other surfaces to prevent contact during recoil or flex.
5. Lightly Snug the Rings Install the ring caps and gently tighten them just enough to keep the scope from shifting. At this stage, you should still be able to rotate the scope and make fine adjustments to its position.
6. Torque the Ring Caps Evenly Using a torque wrench set to 18 in-lbs (or as recommended by the ring manufacturer), tighten the ring caps in a crisscross or “X” pattern. This ensures even pressure is applied to all contact points, reducing the risk of distortion.
7. Secure the Ring Bases to the Receiver Once your scope is level and secured in the rings, tighten the base screws that mount the rings to the rifle. Most manufacturers recommend 40–50 in-lbs, but always check the specific guidelines for your hardware.
8. Level the Reticle Use a bubble level or specialised scope levelling tool to ensure the reticle is perfectly aligned with the rifle bore. A canted reticle can throw off your windage and elevation adjustments, especially at long ranges.
Final Tips for a Trouble-Free Mount
· Always use matched rings when possible—they’re worth the investment for precision optics.
· Avoid overtightening. More torque does not mean more security—it often means more damage.
· Recheck your mount periodically, especially after traveling or shooting sessions with heavy recoil.
· Tailor your setup to your shooting position. Whether you're shooting prone, from a bench, or in the field, your scope’s height and eye relief should match your natural head position.
In Summary
Proper scope mounting is not just about securing your optic—it’s about protecting it, aligning it correctly, and setting yourself up for consistent, reliable shooting. By using matched rings, applying accurate torque, and taking your time during setup, you can avoid common mounting mistakes that lead to frustration and damage.
This extra care during installation pays dividends in the field, where accuracy and confidence in your gear matter most. Whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or weekend plinker, a well-mounted scope helps ensure every shot counts.
If you’d like help choosing the right scope rings, mounting tools, or accessories, or want to explore more tips for dialling in your setup, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you get it right the first time.