Mounting a scope on a rimfire rifle is simpler than it sounds—but getting it right maximizes accuracy, reliability, and shooting comfort. This guide walks you through each step, so you’ll install your scope correctly and be ready to shoot tight groups.
Why Proper Scope Mounting Matters
When it’s done right, scope mounting gives you:
- Consistent accuracy: Proper alignment keeps your point of impact reliable.
- Comfortable shooting: Correct eye relief prevents strain and keeps your cheek weld consistent.
- Reliable zeroing: Solid mounting keeps adjustments steady shot after shot.
1. Gather the Right Tools & Materials
- Scope rings or one-piece mount—matte or low-profile style suited for rimfire action.
- Torx or hex driver (commonly 3–4 mm).
- Bubble level or scope leveler.
- Torque wrench or driver with inch-pound settings.
- Thread locker (blue, medium-strength).
- Clean cloth and mild solvent.
- Protective gloves (optional).
2. Choose Correct Rings and Mount Height
- Height: High enough for clear barrel clearance and scope turret access, but low enough to maintain stable cheek weld.
- Tube diameter: Match rings to your scope (1″, 30 mm, or 34 mm).
- Base type: Rimfire rifles often use Weaver/Picatinny or dovetail; select compatibility.
3. Clean Mounting Surfaces
Unclamp the rings and clean the receiver rail and ring contact points with solvent and a clean cloth. Any oil or debris will affect torque accuracy and mounting stability.
4. Install Rings on the Base
- Loosen ring tops and install ring bottoms on the base—front and rear. Don’t fully tighten yet; leave them snug so they can rotate.
- Spacing: set rings roughly 4–6″ apart (widest permissible for your scope length).
5. Set Scope in Rings and Adjust Eye Relief
- Place scope into rings, ideally with turrets centered between dials.
- Push scope forward and backward while in shooting position until you see a full, clear image when shouldering the rifle.
- Make sure reticle is upright by visually centering a vertical line in your field of view.
- Tighten ring caps just enough to hold, then recheck alignment.
6. Level the Reticle
- Use bubble level tools: one on rifle receiver/rail, one on turret housing.
- Rotate the scope until both levels are parallel and bubble-centred—reticle is now level with barrel.
- Hold levelers in place, then torque ring caps evenly, alternating sides to recommended spec (typically 15–20 in‑lb). Use torque wrench; do not overtighten.
7. Apply Thread Locker (Optional)
For extra security on Picatinny/Weaver setups with removable rings, apply a drop of blue thread locker to base screws before final torque. Wipe away excess afterward.
8. Final Checks
- Ensure scope is centered in rings and level.
- Check eye relief again with rifle shouldered.
- Cycle the bolt (rimfire: .22LR, .17HMR, etc.) to ensure clearance; scope caps shouldn’t contact action.
- Wipe away fingerprints or excess oil.
9. Bore Sighting
Before live firing:
- Mount bolt or remove for bore sight tool.
- Use a laser bore sighter or remove bolt and align iron sights through the barrel.
- Adjust windage and elevation until reticle matches bore alignment.
- This saves ammo and time on the range.
10. Range Zeroing
- Shoot from a stable position at 25 yards—optimal distance for rimfire groups.
- Fire 3–5 shot groups, note point of impact versus aim point.
- Adjust turrets to bring POI to POA; verify with another group.
- Move out to 50 or 100 yards to confirm zero retention.
- Finalize and lock turrets if your model allows.
Common Mounting Mistakes
| Error | Effect | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Over-tightening | Crimped tube, scope damage | Use torque wrench, follow inch-lb specs |
| Unlevel reticle | Holdoff and windage errors | Use bubble levels during installation |
| Poor eye relief | Inconsistent cheek weld, scope shadow | Shoulder and adjust before tightening |
| Bolts screw loose | Mount shift, zero loss | Use thread locker and torque properly |
Pro Tips
- Use a torque wrench: Even small shifts affect rimfire zero.
- Check levels often: Especially if you move rifle between shooting sessions.
- Warm-up screws: Tighten gradually in temperature extremes to avoid distortion.
- Mark screws: Use paint pen to mark torque completion—instant visual inspection before shooting.
- Re-zero with same ammo: Different rimfire brands group differently—consistency improves results.
Conclusion
Mounting a rimfire scope correctly sets you up for consistent accuracy and enjoyable shooting sessions. With the right gear, careful alignment, and proper torque, your rifle will hold zero and feel great to shoot.
Call to Action: Ready to mount your rimfire scope? Gather your tools, follow these steps, and let me know your rifle model—I can recommend perfect rings and eye‑relief measurement guidelines!