Gunsmithing Scope Eye Relief - Maximum, Minimum or Optimum

[bravetoast]

I have a scope, Swarovski Z5 2.4-12x50, which says has an eye relief of 3.74". Is that a maximum, minimum, or optimum distance? Is that the correct distance to mount the scope from my eyeball or are there other more important considerations? If the distance varies depending on if I am prone or standing, what is the correct thought process for choosing a distance?

 

[Wannashootit]

Published distance is optimal.

How To Adjust Your Riflescope

A quick how-to about adjusting your Leupold rifescope to get the most out of your scope.

www.leupold.com