Mounting scopes right

Flex it ‘til it bends” is a strategy some use when mounting scopes on a gun.

It probably won’t come loose, but it’s not the best approach for the precision instrument you’re mounting.

Adrian Hagar, owner of D&R Sporting Goods in Thunder Bay, regularly sees and hears about improperly mounted optics.

The most common issues are damaged optics, missed shots, or inaccurate rifles. Rifle optics, though hardy, are sensitive pieces of equipment. Hereʼs what you need to know.

“It is easy to over-torque screws even with an Allen key,” Hagar said, recommending using a precision torque driver made for this purpose. I use the Vortex Pro torque wrench, but there are several good options.

Hagar offered some more tips:

• Follow manufacturers torque specs for each component, they are all likely different, so be cautious. Don’t over-torque scope rings — this is the easiest way to damage a scope and cause inaccuracies.
  
• The only thing connecting your scope to your firearm is the base — ensure this is tightened to spec, and that screws are all uniform.
  
• You may not damage the rail, but could affect the alignment.
  
• Tighten screws incrementally. If the rings have four screws, tighten one slightly, then move to the opposite corner. Make gradual adjustments until you reach the proper torque.
  
• Ensure consistent torque on the front and back rings, and on all four screws on each ring. Inconsistent torque can cause scope misalignment.

You can usually find torque specs online or on the packaging. The new Vortex Pro rings show the specs printed on the rings. Specs will vary between the rings around the scope and the rings to the bases, so don’t use the same torque value for everything. Confirm what each part requires.

When all your effort, scouting, and preparation come down to that one shot, make sure you’ve done everything to set yourself up for success.

Leveling

Use a bubble level on your barrel or pica-tinny rail to get the rifle perfectly level. Then, with the optic loosely mounted in the rings, set a small level on the top turret and level the scope.

Originally published in the Ontario Out of Doors 2025-2026 Hunting Annual

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