Lapping scope rings on the cheap.

[Occams Rasor]

I was in the process of up-grading my rail and rings on Ruger RAR.
Always wanted to try lapping scope rings but did not want to spend the
bucks on a lapping kit. Real reason for doing this, I just like working on guns.
So found 1" dia x 12" carbon steel rod from McMaster Carr for $10.
Part number: 4416T21
Found valve lapping compound at O'Reilly's auto parts for $5.
Versachem Part number: 13209 (two tubes, coarse & fine)
The rod from Mcmaster mic'ed out at 0.997", perfect.
Worked out quite well. Does it shoot any better? Will find out
this weekend. Either way, still a fun project. Two more scoped rifles to
go.

[Divernhunter]

It is a mistake to use valve lapping compound. The stuff used for scopes is a non-impeding type.

[sholling]

It is a mistake to use valve lapping compound. The stuff used for scopes is a non-impeding type.

I'm not disagreeing, I'm just curious how it avoids embedding. Lapping usually involves abrasive embedding into the softer of the two materials which then acts like sandpaper. Note that both are abraded by the process and the compound is easily washed away.

[Divernhunter]

That was the info I got from several sources(Sinclair was one) when I got my lapping bars and compound.
I also read an article about it before buying and it was in there.
Other than that I can add nothing.

[thomashoward]

I used Burris signature rings and don't worry about it

[Babblu0]

So I got a great deal on the Weaver Kaspa-z 1.5-6x32. I was looking for a qd mount that would clear the rear sight. Well, the UTG medium profile (15mm saddle height) wont clear the rear sight. Anyone have any suggestions?