Rifle Scopes Getting the rings tightened properly

[SquarePizza]

Well, I thought I had my rings tightened properly, but when my groups went wonky today and I noticed that my parallax ring wouldn't turn because it was jammed against the rings, I realized that I didn't have the set properly. Funny thing is the scope is still tight enough where I can't move it by hand, but during recoil it is shifting around.

Therefore, what is the proper tightening method/ torque specs? Does it vary by scope or by the scope rings, or is it pretty much a set torque figure for everything?


Sorry for the silly question, but I have never encountered this before. =P

 

[The_FNG]

What are the rings?

 

[SquarePizza]

Scope: SWFA 6x
Rings: Burris XTR

 

[SquarePizza]

Scope: SWFA 6x
Rings: Burris XTR

 

[Keneida]

You should look at manufacturers site for both the scope and mount. Torque setting can vary from 12-25 in/lb for the scope but in cases like Larue mounts, they recommend 30 in/lbs to properly mount.

 

[Sako man]

I go 50-65 normally with rings to base then the scope clamp bolts 15-20 inLB depending on steel or aluminum. Never had a problem with those settings.

30 seems excessive but im sure that depends on bearing contact surface.

 

[JByrd]

Torque to ring mfg specs. I picked up a snap on torque driver off ebay. I use armstrong torque wratchet on cross bolts. The spec is in the middle of each wrench's range respectively. Im an OCD mechanic. All about that right tool for the job to me. Torque it perfect on setup and then you dont have to worry about it in the field. A friend of mine stripes the bolt heads with a paint marker so he knows they havent moved by just glancing at them. Ive been meaning to do this extra step myself, knights a sharp fella.

 

[dieselgeek]

I go 25inch lbs and I use the Borka PTL. He can custom make you PTLs so I had him make me a set.

25 for the my ring screws
45 for the Sphur Mount to the pic rail and for my Manners Mini-Chassis
65 for standard action screws on my Manners and McMillan stocks.

Pretty awesome to have sitting on your bench, but I also keep a set in my pack for when I'm shooting at matches.

 

[KNIGHT11B4]

Thanks Pro...

It provides piece of mind and one thing you can immediately identify if it is in question. With quality rings and torque wrench, if you ever have to take off and remount the scope the lines should center back up.

I have taken the scope off my 260 4 times for new barrels and every time when torqued they have lined back up. (Seekings rings)

 

[cookie91/38]

What did you torque them to? I have the same rings and mine are set at 15 inch/lbs and are working good.

 

[Sako man]

The Borka is great, I carry one on every shoot.