How to Disable Default Scope Rails

Hunters and shooting enthusiasts often modify their weapons in order to help improve accuracy. The modification process often includes adding a scope or other sight work. Many rifle manufacturers install scopes or scope rails on rifles in the factory, however not all gun owners prefer the factory installed "default" rails. Not all scopes fit factory rails either. If you have a new scope or sight that you wish to mount, you'll need to remove the factory rails in order to install it properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Padded gun vise
  • Torque bit driver (with fitting screw-head bits)
  • Finished receiver plugs (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unload the weapon completely. Visually inspect the chamber to ensure that no live ammunition is present.

    • 2

      Secure the weapon in a padded gun vise. Ensure that the scope rails are accessible to work.

    • 3

      Unscrew the scope rings and remove the scope and rings from the scope mount rail, if so installed on the rail. As all scopes vary in installation, consult your owner's manual for specifics.

    • 4

      Locate the screws on the scope mount rail. As all weapons vary, consult your rifle manufacturer's instruction manual for the proper tools to use to remove the screws. Typically a torque driver with appropriate screw-head bits will suffice for screw removal.

    • 5

      Remove all of the screws from the rail, applying firm pressure. Lift off the rail from the weapon. You'll notice that the weapon now has holes in the receiver from the scope rails. You can either leave the holes empty for mounting a new scope later, or plug the holes by screwing in finished receiver plugs.