How to Install Scope Rings

Scope rings are an integral part of a stable shooting platform. Connecting the scope to the rifle, stabilizing the entire aiming mechanism with the firing mechanism, the scope rings control the rifle's accuracy and consistency at the most fundamental level. They often receive less attention than the scope and the rifle, but the scope rings are as important as the more obvious platform components. Careful alignment and installation are an absolute must for any shooter hoping to get the best out of his gun and scope.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Boresighter
  • Standard gun oil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the distance along the scope tube between the front and rear expansions to determine how far apart you can place the scope rings. The farther apart the rings are, the more stable the mount will be, as long as they are both within the narrow section of scope tube.

    • 2

      Measure the corresponding distance on the scope mount on the top of your rifle and place the lower halves of the scope rings on the mount.

    • 3

      Oil the attaching screws included with the scope rings and attach the bottom halves of the two rings to the mount. Be careful not to over tighten.

    • 4

      Lay the scope in the scope rings facing toward the muzzle end of the barrel, making sure it lays flat in the rings.

    • 5

      Use a boresighter (laser or optical) to ensure that the barrel and scope both point at the same spot 25 yards away.

    • 6

      Place the top halves of the rings over the scope and screw them into the bottom ring halves.

    • 7

      Sight in you gun with live shooting after mounting the scope. Boresighting is not sufficient; it is only the first step of sighting in. To sight in your newly mounted scope, you will need to fire it at a live range at targets up to 100 yards and beyond, making adjustments with the windage knobs on the side and top of the scope.