How to Mount a Scope

Scopes are mounted to rifles, shotguns and handguns and are used by target shooters, hunters, law enforcement and military personnel. Scopes allow a shooter to zoom in and see the target in much greater detail, especially at greater distances, so that a shot can be accurately placed. One particular method of attaching a scope to a weapon involves a rail that is attached to the rifle, shotgun or handgun and accepts a removable scope mount. This is a convenient method for changing scopes without disturbing the adjustments.

Things You'll Need

  • Rifle, shotgun or pistol
  • Scope rings
  • Allen wrench or screwdriver
  • Scope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Separate the scope mounting rings by loosening and removing the screws on both sides of the rings. Use a small screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the screws as needed.

    • 2

      Loosen the adjustment knob on the side of the base mounting ring, but do not completely remove the knob.

    • 3

      Slide both of the base mounting rings on the mount so they are positioned in a mounting groove.

    • 4

      Ttighten the adjustment knobs only slightly at this point to temporarily hold the rings in place.

    • 5

      Place the scope on the base mounting rings to check for spacing between the base mounting rings. Determine if the rings are properly spaced to provide support to the scope while not interfering with adjustment features of the scope.

    • 6

      Tighten the adjustment knob on the base ring mount securely and place the scope in the base ring mount. Place the top ring mounts so they align with the base mounts and install a screw on both sides but do not tighten.

    • 7

      Position the scope so it is correctly positioned based on the horizon. Hold the rifle, shotgun or handgun and adjust the scope forward or back for proper viewing distance. Tighten the screws in the ring mounts with a screwdriver or Allen wrench to hold the scope securely in place.