How to Properly Mount a Rifle Scope

How to Properly Mount a Rifle Scope

Properly mounting your rifle scope is essential for accuracy and repeatable performance. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your scope is securely installed and aligned for consistent shooting.

Tools You'll Need:

• Torque wrench or torque driver (inch-pounds)
• Bubble level or scope leveling kit
• Gun vise or sandbags
• Degreaser or rubbing alcohol

Note: We strongly recommend investing in the right tools for your hobby. Having the proper equipment helps ensure your scope is mounted correctly, safely, and without damage to your rifle or optic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Rifle and Scope

• Ensure the rifle is unloaded and safe.
• Clean all mounting surfaces with alcohol to remove oil and debris.

2. Install the Base (if applicable)

• Align the base with the mounting holes on the rifle.
• Tighten base screws to 30 in-lbs—this is our general recommendation.
• Important: Always confirm the recommended torque setting with the manufacturer of the base or rail you purchased. Some systems may vary.

3. Mount the Lower Ring Halves

• Place the lower halves of the rings on the base or rail.
• Ensure they are evenly spaced and not over-tightened.

4. Position the Scope

• Lay the scope in the lower rings.
• Turn any variable power scope to its highest magnification setting before setting eye relief.
• Variable power scopes have variable eye relief from low to high power.
• Low power typically has longer, more forgiving eye relief.
• Setting eye relief on low power will often result in poor alignment or scope shadow when zoomed in.
• Neglecting this step can lead to less-than-ideal results, including an inconsistent or limited sight picture.
• The actual shooter should be the one to set eye relief.
• Every individual is shaped differently, with different shoulder width, length of pull, cheek weld, and head position.
• Having a store associate or gunsmith shoulder the rifle may result in poor fit and eye relief for the person who will actually use the rifle.
• Adjust the scope forward or backward until you have a full and clear field of view while maintaining a natural, comfortable shooting position.

5. Level the Reticle

• Level the rifle using a bubble level on the receiver or action.
• Place a level on the turret cap of the scope and rotate the scope until the reticle is perfectly horizontal.

6. Install the Top Ring Halves

• Carefully place the top halves of the rings on the scope.
• Alternate screws in an X-pattern to gradually tighten.
• Tighten ring top screws to 20 in-lbs maximum for standard scopes.
• For the Eliminator 6, do not exceed 18 in-lbs on ring tops. Overtightening can damage the electronics and internal components of the scope.
• Ensure the gap between ring halves is even on both sides.

7. Final Checks

• Confirm eye relief and reticle level again after tightening.
• Cycle the bolt to ensure there is no interference.
• Check torque settings again after a few range sessions.

Tips for Best Results

• We always recommend using Burris Signature Rings for superior fit, durability, and performance.
• We also recommend Burris XTR Signature Rings as an excellent option.
• For AR rifle platforms, we recommend the AR PEPR Scope Mount or the AR Signature QD PEPR Mount for optimal fit and durability.
• Use a quality set of rings and base that match the scope tube diameter (1", 30mm, or 34mm).
• A scope with a large objective lens may require higher rings to clear the barrel.
• Do not overtighten ring screws—this can damage the scope tube.
• If you experience tracking issues or point-of-impact shift, re-check your mounting setup.

Still Need Help?

If you have questions or would like assistance mounting your scope, please contact our support team at: Burris Customer Service.