Rifle Scopes aligning scope on rifle
- Thread starter Elohim1
- Start date
Re: aligning scope on rifle
http://www.google.com/advanced_search?hl=en
By far this is the best way to get info here.
It will save the caustic replys to the answers you seek.
Also include "feeler guage" in the search and you will get more info than you could probably read.
Good luck
http://www.google.com/advanced_search?hl=en
By far this is the best way to get info here.
It will save the caustic replys to the answers you seek.
Also include "feeler guage" in the search and you will get more info than you could probably read.
Good luck
Re: aligning scope on rifle
What is the feeler gauge method? I have a problem with this as I've tried using levels to level it to the rifle, but it always looks off when I do this and then bring the rifle to my shoulder? I'd like a new method. I often do it by eye and it's always a little off. I can get it closer like this than with the level though.
What is the feeler gauge method? I have a problem with this as I've tried using levels to level it to the rifle, but it always looks off when I do this and then bring the rifle to my shoulder? I'd like a new method. I often do it by eye and it's always a little off. I can get it closer like this than with the level though.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
ALso, I saw a video on youtube that demonstrates the feeler gauge method. I cant find it, but when I do, Ill add the link.
ALso, I saw a video on youtube that demonstrates the feeler gauge method. I cant find it, but when I do, Ill add the link.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just watched that video and that little level he used on the base to level the rifle then used on the scope looks handy. Anyone know where I can get one of those? </div></div>
I didn't watch the video but Wheeler makes a level set for scope mounting and Midway carries them. I cant really recommend their system though, a small machinists level is much more accurate and I believe the feeler gauge/parallel method is superior.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just watched that video and that little level he used on the base to level the rifle then used on the scope looks handy. Anyone know where I can get one of those? </div></div>
I didn't watch the video but Wheeler makes a level set for scope mounting and Midway carries them. I cant really recommend their system though, a small machinists level is much more accurate and I believe the feeler gauge/parallel method is superior.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
I use a standard small level you can get anywhere and level the rifle then level the scope and tighten a single ring cap slowly and not moving the rifle. Been doing it like that for years and it works just fine and is plenty easy.
I use a standard small level you can get anywhere and level the rifle then level the scope and tighten a single ring cap slowly and not moving the rifle. Been doing it like that for years and it works just fine and is plenty easy.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
The easyest solution of all is my method (patent pending........)
where I have a 10 degree grove in the base, and am using a 10 degree key to the underside of the scope.
Just puch in the 10 degree key and the scope rotates to the proper position.
Håkan
The easyest solution of all is my method (patent pending........)
where I have a 10 degree grove in the base, and am using a 10 degree key to the underside of the scope.
Just puch in the 10 degree key and the scope rotates to the proper position.
Håkan
Re: aligning scope on rifle
My latest technique-
If the bottom of scope is flat you can use a allen that just fits in the space between the rail and bottom of erector housing, then turn it so the flats of the angles keep the scope square to the base while you tighten the cap screws.
My latest technique-
If the bottom of scope is flat you can use a allen that just fits in the space between the rail and bottom of erector housing, then turn it so the flats of the angles keep the scope square to the base while you tighten the cap screws.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Spuhr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The easyest solution of all is my method (patent pending........)
where I have a 10 degree grove in the base, and am using a 10 degree key to the underside of the scope.
Just puch in the 10 degree key and the scope rotates to the proper position.
Håkan </div></div>
Too bad you won't make one in 35mm or I would have already ordered one.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Spuhr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The easyest solution of all is my method (patent pending........)
where I have a 10 degree grove in the base, and am using a 10 degree key to the underside of the scope.
Just puch in the 10 degree key and the scope rotates to the proper position.
Håkan </div></div>
Too bad you won't make one in 35mm or I would have already ordered one.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
SPUHR:
I saw this a while back on your other posts on here and have to say, that is thinking outside the box sir!
Very well done and such a simple method as well. Somebody was paying attention in geometry class that day!
I could easily see that as being a standard method eventually.
How about having a line centered on the top of the rings or on the sides. You'd think that the ring makers could easily make a centered line on their product and the same goes for scope makers. Bring them together and everybody wins!
Problem solved, just takes people/companies sticking to a standard.
sobrbiker883:
Very good idea as well. I'll try that one tonight!
Mike
SPUHR:
I saw this a while back on your other posts on here and have to say, that is thinking outside the box sir!
Very well done and such a simple method as well. Somebody was paying attention in geometry class that day!
I could easily see that as being a standard method eventually.
How about having a line centered on the top of the rings or on the sides. You'd think that the ring makers could easily make a centered line on their product and the same goes for scope makers. Bring them together and everybody wins!
Problem solved, just takes people/companies sticking to a standard.
sobrbiker883:
Very good idea as well. I'll try that one tonight!
Mike
Re: aligning scope on rifle
Hi
Thanks a lot for the kind words, but actually I hated school, mathematics definitely and language most definitely.
So I am a poor at mathematical, but i do have some feeling for mechanical solutions.....
And now there is all those great programs that helps me with calculations and drawings, so it's not really any disadvantage anymore.
scopemount and line up
I do actually have a line both at the top and at the side.
As I don't want the ring to be missplaced to much, there is only o,o2" space betwen the ring and the base.
The purpose of the line is more for getting a fast easaly seen mark against the knobs.
To use that line for lining up the scope, is most likely a solution that not is precisce enogh, but if you wanna try, the lines are there.
Håkan
Hi
Thanks a lot for the kind words, but actually I hated school, mathematics definitely and language most definitely.
So I am a poor at mathematical, but i do have some feeling for mechanical solutions.....
And now there is all those great programs that helps me with calculations and drawings, so it's not really any disadvantage anymore.
scopemount and line up
I do actually have a line both at the top and at the side.
As I don't want the ring to be missplaced to much, there is only o,o2" space betwen the ring and the base.
The purpose of the line is more for getting a fast easaly seen mark against the knobs.
To use that line for lining up the scope, is most likely a solution that not is precisce enogh, but if you wanna try, the lines are there.
Håkan
Re: aligning scope on rifle
Maybe this is to simplistic but I hang a weighted string in my garage and allign the vertical crosshair with the string. Gravity hasn't failed me yet.
Maybe this is to simplistic but I hang a weighted string in my garage and allign the vertical crosshair with the string. Gravity hasn't failed me yet.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
Maybe I am lucky but I have a Simmoons 4-12AO mounted on an AH the has worked fine for years. I usually don't buy inexpensive scopes but thought i'd give it a try on the AK. 2000 rounds later still good to go.
Maybe I am lucky but I have a Simmoons 4-12AO mounted on an AH the has worked fine for years. I usually don't buy inexpensive scopes but thought i'd give it a try on the AK. 2000 rounds later still good to go.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
Level across the bolt race rails, another level across the flat on the scope, turn scope slowly while watching both levels - no, it's not hard. Tighten ring caps carefully. No problem. Works the same on Picatinny rail if the rail is of good quality - that is, level in itself.
This is a good time to put the external clamp-on level on the scope or P-rails.
Level across the bolt race rails, another level across the flat on the scope, turn scope slowly while watching both levels - no, it's not hard. Tighten ring caps carefully. No problem. Works the same on Picatinny rail if the rail is of good quality - that is, level in itself.
This is a good time to put the external clamp-on level on the scope or P-rails.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
I can't remember where I got this but it was one of the smaller online retailers, like woodchuckden, except it wasn't them:
Maybe someone else will recognize it. The top vee rests on the objective end of the scope and bottom vee rests on top of the barrel. When the bubble is centered and your reticle is parallel to a known vertical line (like a plumb bob), all are perfectly aligned.
After I got this I started checking my rifles with scopes already mounted and discovered my "natural" hold of the rifle is never <span style="text-decoration: underline">never</span> perfectly vertical. It always was canted one way or the other. This fixed that but it wasn't cheap. IIRC, it was close to $50.
I can't remember where I got this but it was one of the smaller online retailers, like woodchuckden, except it wasn't them:
Maybe someone else will recognize it. The top vee rests on the objective end of the scope and bottom vee rests on top of the barrel. When the bubble is centered and your reticle is parallel to a known vertical line (like a plumb bob), all are perfectly aligned.
After I got this I started checking my rifles with scopes already mounted and discovered my "natural" hold of the rifle is never <span style="text-decoration: underline">never</span> perfectly vertical. It always was canted one way or the other. This fixed that but it wasn't cheap. IIRC, it was close to $50.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
The tool that Fred Dobbs has pictured is called a "Microlevel" and is made by Long Range Products. It costs $45 and can be seen here:
http://www.microlevel.biz/vertical_retical_instrument.html
You can use the menu on the left of the page above to get pricing and information on their other products.
The tool that Fred Dobbs has pictured is called a "Microlevel" and is made by Long Range Products. It costs $45 and can be seen here:
http://www.microlevel.biz/vertical_retical_instrument.html
You can use the menu on the left of the page above to get pricing and information on their other products.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation?
I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation?
Re: aligning scope on rifle
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation? </div></div>
You don't need a "jig". A small bubble level, some heavy fishing line or some yarn, and a small lead weight or a key is all you need. I use a level on the rail to ensure that the rifle is perfectly level, and constantly check that the rifle remains level as I align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with a plumb line. Then I tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. This has always worked well for me.
Place the small level on top of the base (the level doesn't have to be an expensive one - a $2.00-$3.00 plastic line level works great). If there isn't enough room (common when you have a two-piece base) and/or clearance on top of the base for the level, remove the vial from the housing and place it in one of the slots in the base. If there isn't room you can temporarily tack it in place against the lower ring half using some modeling clay or similar.
Rig a plumb line using the heavy fishing line (I say HEAVY so it is easier to see) or yarn and the weight. Then look through the scope and align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with the plumb line. Tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. Frequently check to see that the scope isn't turning as you tighten the ring tops or you'll have to start all over again. Hope this helps.
BTW, (and I'm not singling you out) - but a "<span style="font-style: italic">jig</span> is a dance. The photo below, which <span style="font-style: italic">Fred_C_Dobbs</span> posted is a <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">fixture</span></span>.
Keith
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation? </div></div>
You don't need a "jig". A small bubble level, some heavy fishing line or some yarn, and a small lead weight or a key is all you need. I use a level on the rail to ensure that the rifle is perfectly level, and constantly check that the rifle remains level as I align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with a plumb line. Then I tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. This has always worked well for me.
Place the small level on top of the base (the level doesn't have to be an expensive one - a $2.00-$3.00 plastic line level works great). If there isn't enough room (common when you have a two-piece base) and/or clearance on top of the base for the level, remove the vial from the housing and place it in one of the slots in the base. If there isn't room you can temporarily tack it in place against the lower ring half using some modeling clay or similar.
Rig a plumb line using the heavy fishing line (I say HEAVY so it is easier to see) or yarn and the weight. Then look through the scope and align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with the plumb line. Tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. Frequently check to see that the scope isn't turning as you tighten the ring tops or you'll have to start all over again. Hope this helps.
BTW, (and I'm not singling you out) - but a "<span style="font-style: italic">jig</span> is a dance. The photo below, which <span style="font-style: italic">Fred_C_Dobbs</span> posted is a <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">fixture</span></span>.
Keith
Re: aligning scope on rifle
Like this method...way to easy...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Aries64</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation? </div></div>
You don't need a "jig". A small bubble level, some heavy fishing line or some yarn, and a small lead weight or a key is all you need. I use a level on the rail to ensure that the rifle is perfectly level, and constantly check that the rifle remains level as I align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with a plumb line. Then I tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. This has always worked well for me.
Place the small level on top of the base (the level doesn't have to be an expensive one - a $2.00-$3.00 plastic line level works great). If there isn't enough room (common when you have a two-piece base) and/or clearance on top of the base for the level, remove the vial from the housing and place it in one of the slots in the base. If there isn't room you can temporarily tack it in place against the lower ring half using some modeling clay or similar.
Rig a plumb line using the heavy fishing line (I say HEAVY so it is easier to see) or yarn and the weight. Then look through the scope and align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with the plumb line. Tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. Frequently check to see that the scope isn't turning as you tighten the ring tops or you'll have to start all over again. Hope this helps.
BTW, (and I'm not singling you out) - but a "<span style="font-style: italic">jig</span> is a dance. The photo below, which <span style="font-style: italic">Fred_C_Dobbs</span> posted is a <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">fixture</span></span>.
Keith</div></div>
Like this method...way to easy...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Aries64</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation? </div></div>
You don't need a "jig". A small bubble level, some heavy fishing line or some yarn, and a small lead weight or a key is all you need. I use a level on the rail to ensure that the rifle is perfectly level, and constantly check that the rifle remains level as I align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with a plumb line. Then I tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. This has always worked well for me.
Place the small level on top of the base (the level doesn't have to be an expensive one - a $2.00-$3.00 plastic line level works great). If there isn't enough room (common when you have a two-piece base) and/or clearance on top of the base for the level, remove the vial from the housing and place it in one of the slots in the base. If there isn't room you can temporarily tack it in place against the lower ring half using some modeling clay or similar.
Rig a plumb line using the heavy fishing line (I say HEAVY so it is easier to see) or yarn and the weight. Then look through the scope and align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with the plumb line. Tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. Frequently check to see that the scope isn't turning as you tighten the ring tops or you'll have to start all over again. Hope this helps.
BTW, (and I'm not singling you out) - but a "<span style="font-style: italic">jig</span> is a dance. The photo below, which <span style="font-style: italic">Fred_C_Dobbs</span> posted is a <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">fixture</span></span>.
Keith</div></div>
Re: aligning scope on rifle
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Testedone</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Like this method...way to easy...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Aries64</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation? </div></div>
You don't need a "jig". A small bubble level, some heavy fishing line or some yarn, and a small lead weight or a key is all you need. I use a level on the rail to ensure that the rifle is perfectly level, and constantly check that the rifle remains level as I align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with a plumb line. Then I tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. This has always worked well for me.
Place the small level on top of the base (the level doesn't have to be an expensive one - a $2.00-$3.00 plastic line level works great). If there isn't enough room (common when you have a two-piece base) and/or clearance on top of the base for the level, remove the vial from the housing and place it in one of the slots in the base. If there isn't room you can temporarily tack it in place against the lower ring half using some modeling clay or similar.
Rig a plumb line using the heavy fishing line (I say HEAVY so it is easier to see) or yarn and the weight. Then look through the scope and align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with the plumb line. Tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. Frequently check to see that the scope isn't turning as you tighten the ring tops or you'll have to start all over again. Hope this helps.
BTW, (and I'm not singling you out) - but a "<span style="font-style: italic">jig</span> is a dance. The photo below, which <span style="font-style: italic">Fred_C_Dobbs</span> posted is a <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">fixture</span></span>.
Keith</div></div> </div></div>
Easy and basic/simple enough that it's tough to mess up.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Testedone</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Like this method...way to easy...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Aries64</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I need to get one of those jigs I think as I realized I can't do the feeler gauge method since most of my bases are two piece bases. I can't ever get the rifle and scope level with two small levels and when I do it seems like it's always still off center. Is that jig thing posted the best tool to get for my situation? </div></div>
You don't need a "jig". A small bubble level, some heavy fishing line or some yarn, and a small lead weight or a key is all you need. I use a level on the rail to ensure that the rifle is perfectly level, and constantly check that the rifle remains level as I align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with a plumb line. Then I tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. This has always worked well for me.
Place the small level on top of the base (the level doesn't have to be an expensive one - a $2.00-$3.00 plastic line level works great). If there isn't enough room (common when you have a two-piece base) and/or clearance on top of the base for the level, remove the vial from the housing and place it in one of the slots in the base. If there isn't room you can temporarily tack it in place against the lower ring half using some modeling clay or similar.
Rig a plumb line using the heavy fishing line (I say HEAVY so it is easier to see) or yarn and the weight. Then look through the scope and align the reticle's vertical post and crosshair with the plumb line. Tighten the ring tops a 1/4 turn at a time, alternating in a cross pattern front and rear. Frequently check to see that the scope isn't turning as you tighten the ring tops or you'll have to start all over again. Hope this helps.
BTW, (and I'm not singling you out) - but a "<span style="font-style: italic">jig</span> is a dance. The photo below, which <span style="font-style: italic">Fred_C_Dobbs</span> posted is a <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">fixture</span></span>.
Keith</div></div> </div></div>
Easy and basic/simple enough that it's tough to mess up.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Where do you guys get the small levels? I've tried checking Lowes and was unable to find them. Any suggestions on where to pick them up? </div></div>
I got mine from an independent hardware store in my neighborhood run by old-timers store (been owned and operated by the same family for fifty years). If there are any left in your area try a Tru-Value hardware store. A cheapie $1.99, Made in China line-level will suffice as a donor for the bubble vial.
Keith
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: slowr1der</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Where do you guys get the small levels? I've tried checking Lowes and was unable to find them. Any suggestions on where to pick them up? </div></div>
I got mine from an independent hardware store in my neighborhood run by old-timers store (been owned and operated by the same family for fifty years). If there are any left in your area try a Tru-Value hardware store. A cheapie $1.99, Made in China line-level will suffice as a donor for the bubble vial.
Keith
Re: aligning scope on rifle
You can get product at brownells, see website below,
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=6097/Product/EXD_ENGINEERING_VERTICAL_RETICLE_INSTRUMENT
I think it is amazing, and allows more accurate scope leveling to bore than anything else out there that I'm aware of.
You can get product at brownells, see website below,
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=6097/Product/EXD_ENGINEERING_VERTICAL_RETICLE_INSTRUMENT
I think it is amazing, and allows more accurate scope leveling to bore than anything else out there that I'm aware of.
Re: aligning scope on rifle
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vkc</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You can get product at brownells, see website below,
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=6097/Product/EXD_ENGINEERING_VERTICAL_RETICLE_INSTRUMENT
I think it is amazing, and allows more accurate scope leveling to bore than anything else out there that I'm aware of.
</div></div>I really like that, I just can't decide if I want to try smaller levels, or just get one of those.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vkc</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You can get product at brownells, see website below,
http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/pid=6097/Product/EXD_ENGINEERING_VERTICAL_RETICLE_INSTRUMENT
I think it is amazing, and allows more accurate scope leveling to bore than anything else out there that I'm aware of.
</div></div>I really like that, I just can't decide if I want to try smaller levels, or just get one of those.
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