Rifle Scopes Newbie question on rings

[trailman]

I installed a set of Seekins Precision 30mm rings with my SWFA scope. One side of the rings does not fully come together like by a mm or so. Is this normal? Shot it for the first time yesterday with no obvious problems. I would imagine that both side of the rings would mesh. All 8 screws are hand tightened with the wrench from the box. i don't think I can tighten it anymore without damage. Thoughts? Suggestions?

 

[diverdon]

When using rings like that I tighten the screws a bit at a time until when the proper torque is set the gap is uniform on both sides. It can be a PITA so now I mostly use ARC mounts.

 

[Krazy_jim]

I agree with the above. Need to slowly tighten all screws, paying attention to the gap on both sides.

Once you have them barely finger tight and even, then torque them to spec.

 

[Wyzrd]

That’s one of the reasons why I sold all my other rings and only use the ARC M10’s now. Scope mounting doesn’t get any easier IMO.

 

[scudzuki]

The gap does not need to be exactly the same on both sides, but there should be a gap on both sides.

If you went to the expense of buying Seekins rings, I suspect your scope was somewhat expensive, too.
Don't rely on hand tightening ring screws on your nice optical instrument.
Get a low value torque wrench for the ring screws and tighten them to 20 to 22 in/lbs. max (that's INCH pounds not foot pounds).

I like the Wheeler FAT wrench myself.