Been using AI at work to manage process documentation. Thought I would try it with this thread.
None of this is me, just an AI summary..
Scope Mounting to Maintain Zero
This document summarizes the detailed scope mounting procedure shared by
@Formidilosus on the Rokslide Forum. The goal is to ensure the lowest possibility of losing zero during use, especially in hunting scenarios.
Key Principles
The following principles guide the mounting process:
- Things don't shoot 'tight', they shoot 'loose'.
- Oil and grease help things move and prevent sticking (including finger oils).
- Under-torquing screws causes them to shoot loose; over-torquing breaks components.
- Manufacturers apply oil to all metal components to prevent rust.
- Ring and scope manufacturers provide conservative torque specs to reduce customer service issues.
- Wider ring spacing provides better support for the scope tube.
Materials Used
- Howa 6.5 Grendel rifle
- SWFA SS 3-9x42mm scope
- Seekins Picatinny rings
- Burris XTR bases
- Hand tools
- Acetone or brake cleaner
- Blue Loctite, paint pen, or nail polish
- Napkins and Q-Tips
- Torque wrench
Mounting Procedure
Disassemble the rifle and degrease all screws, bases, and holes using acetone or brake cleaner.
Apply thread locker to screws and screw holes.
Install and torque base screws appropriately.
Install rings and push them forward into the lug if using Picatinny or Weaver rings.
Degrease scope tube and ring cap screws, apply thread locker.
Set eye relief and align the reticle, then torque ring screws to about 18 in-lbs.
Spin power ring, parallax knob, and turrets to check for binding.
Seal screw heads with paint pen or nail polish to prevent oil ingress and monitor loosening.
Final Notes
After mounting, test the rifle at the range to verify integrity of the rifle, mounts, scope, and ammo. A 10-round group at 100 yards should show minimal deviation. Most issues with optics moving or screws loosening are due to improper degreasing, lack of thread locker, or incorrect torque.
I saved and printed this for my work bench. Handy reference guide to make sure I don't miss anything.
