Choosing the right scope ring height is crucial for proper firearm zeroing and safe shooting. An incorrect height can lead to obstructed views, inaccurate shots, and even damage to your scope or rifle. This guide will walk you through the precise steps to determine the ideal scope ring height for your specific setup.
Understanding Scope Ring Height
Scope ring height refers to the vertical distance between the top of your rifle's receiver and the centerline of your scope's tube. Getting this measurement right ensures optimal clearance and eye relief. Too low, and the scope may interfere with the ejection port or bolt handle. Too high, and you'll end up with an awkward and uncomfortable cheek weld.
Tools You'll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential tools:
- Caliper or Ruler: A precise measuring tool is vital for accurate readings. A digital caliper offers the best accuracy.
- Rifle: Obviously, you'll need the rifle you're mounting the scope on.
- Scope: You'll need your chosen riflescope for this measurement.
- Scope Rings (Optional): Having the rings you plan to use can be helpful, but it's not strictly necessary for the initial measurement.
Step-by-Step Measurement Process
Follow these steps to accurately determine your scope ring height:
1. Prepare Your Rifle and Scope
Ensure your rifle is unloaded and safe. Remove any existing scope mounts or rings. Have your scope ready for the next step.
2. Measure the Objective Bell Diameter
Carefully measure the diameter of your scope's objective lens (the front lens). Record this measurement. This measurement is vital for determining clearance and preventing the objective lens from hitting the barrel.
3. Measure the Distance from Receiver to Barrel
Using your caliper or ruler, measure the distance between the top of your rifle's receiver (where the scope base will sit) and the top of your rifle's barrel. This measurement is critical to determine the minimum necessary clearance. Take multiple measurements at several points along the receiver to ensure consistency.
4. Determine Minimum Scope Ring Height (Low Rings)
The minimum height for the scope rings is dictated by the distance between the receiver and the barrel (step 3). You must add the diameter of the objective bell (step 2) to this distance and leave extra space for a safety margin of at least 1/8" to 1/4". This provides the necessary clearance to prevent the objective lens from striking the barrel.
5. Consider Eye Relief
While step 4 provides the minimum height, the best height is frequently determined by your ideal cheek weld and eye relief. Too low, and you'll have to crane your neck, leading to discomfort and shooting inaccuracies. Too high, and your cheek weld will be too high or uncomfortable. Ideally, experiment with different mounts or high rings to find your ideal cheek weld and eye relief.
6. Measure Scope's Tube Diameter
Measure the diameter of your scope's tube. This ensures you purchase rings of the correct diameter.
7. Consult Manufacturer Specifications
Many manufacturers provide detailed specifications and guidelines for their scopes and rifles. Always consult the relevant manuals for recommended ring heights or clearance specifications.
Interpreting Your Measurements
Once you have all your measurements, add them together, accounting for the safety margin. This provides the minimum height. This will give you a starting point for selecting your scope ring height. You might find that the minimum height is sufficient, or you may need higher rings for optimal cheek weld and eye relief.
Choosing Your Scope Rings
Using your calculated minimum ring height, select rings that meet or slightly exceed that height. Remember, it's always better to have slightly higher rings than too low, as you can adjust the eye relief within the scope itself.
Final Thoughts
Precisely measuring for scope ring height is essential for accuracy and safety. Following these steps ensures that you'll enjoy optimal performance and a comfortable shooting experience. Remember to always double-check your measurements and prioritize safety throughout the process.
