Bedding scope rings - Why?

[Usmc0844spare]

So over the last couple days, I bedded a couple sets of scope rings.

Really just for something to tinker on.... was bored and seemed like a nice simple "can't hurt!" project. Honestly, I think I just like the smell of JB Weld.

But why did I do it? What is the rationale for bedding (or on the other end of the spectrum, lapping) scope rings? Even with unbedded rings, the scope ain't going anywhere with the ring screws torqued down reasonably (I use 10 inch pounds).

[HUTCH 7.62]

[Usmc0844spare]

Yes, there is ample opportunity for debate here.... I added in a bonus debate topic (torque values for scope rings).

[smoothy8500]

Bedding the receiver mount or rail makes sense since there is usually a significant space between rail and receiver.

Considering decent scope rings are fairly well machined to be concentric, it leaves very little "space' for JB Weld or other epoxies. A certain thickness of the material is necessary for adhesion or shear/compression strength.

You are probably better off just dusting the scope body with rosin...Of course someone will come along and debate that bedding the rings is a benefit.

[Usmc0844spare]

Bedding the receiver mount or rail makes sense since there is usually a significant space between rail and receiver.

Considering decent scope rings are fairly well machined to be concentric, it leaves very little "space' for JB Weld or other epoxies. A certain thickness of the material is necessary for adhesion or shear/compression strength.

You are probably better off just dusting the scope body with rosin...Of course someone will come along and debate that bedding the rings is a benefit.

Maybe here is another way to pose the question... can you convert cheapo rings to "OK to decent" with bedding?

One set I bedded probably really didn't need it. But the other set (super cheap Amazon stuff) probably benefited since, now really looking at the rings for the first time, had a sort of hourglass profile to them at the bottom... not much contact between the rings and the scope really... so now, having taken care of that, are my $15 Monstrum Tactical rings all fixed?

[FeuerFrei]

Jonesing for that White Oak barrel are we? Tinkering to take your mind off it?

Please don't skimp on good rings. Look at Warn? LaRue? etc...

People will report in on what they suggest I'm sure.

[DrewN]

Heck, I probably haven't had to lap (much less bed) a set of rings in 10 years easily. Modern rings,mounts and rails are a lot better than the old days.

[Dirtlaw]

I think pressure and twist on the optical assembly are the concerns. As stated in other posts, however, machining has improved over the years so maybe not such a big deal. Still, those seeking to squeeze the last ounce out of their weapon may want to take everything as far as they can.

[Usmc0844spare]

Jonesing for that White Oak barrel are we? Tinkering to take your mind off it?

Please don't skimp on good rings. Look at Warn? LaRue? etc...

People will report in on what they suggest I'm sure.

LOL.... FWIW the crap cheapo rings are on my 10/22, which was perking right along with them regardless of bedding.

For the AR I am using a better one piece cantilever mount. I won't risk incurring the wrath of the purists by stating the brand, but suffice it to say it rhymes with "Bimary Barms".

[Divernhunter]

once you lap a set of rings, even more costly ones, you will understand why it is a good idea.

[ExtremeX]

Maybe here is another way to pose the question... can you convert cheapo rings to "OK to decent" with bedding?

One set I bedded probably really didn't need it. But the other set (super cheap Amazon stuff) probably benefited since, now really looking at the rings for the first time, had a sort of hourglass profile to them at the bottom... not much contact between the rings and the scope really... so now, having taken care of that, are my $15 Monstrum Tactical rings all fixed?

[Usmc0844spare]

I think something I honed in on, which is probably an issue on the cheapos, is when the rings are not parallel with each other and/or are not perpendicular to the long axis of the rifle. I can see that putting a lot of stress on the scope, if not corrected with bedding.

[nedro]

I can only imagine bedding one of those ring sets that have bushings in them. I wouldn't use one of those at any cost.

Then consider how closely a normal ring is machined to the diameter of the scope you are installing; only an extremely out of alignment set would have any benefit of bedding.

Lapping, on the other hand is always a good idea. Even for the best sets of rings. It just makes them more trued. And I have never seen a set of rings that are 100% in alignment from the factory. But I've never owned a Bobro.

[pacrat]

once you lap a set of rings, even more costly ones, you will understand why it is a good idea.

^^^THAT^^^

I've had quality rings properly mounted. With less than 50% contact, NOT GOOD.

I bed bases, I lap rings, I bed rings, I Loc-tite screws. I in essence, remove all possible doubt of any optic moving in relation to the receiver. Same reason that if I plan on keeping a rifle, and/or hunting with it. It gets bedded to stock before I ever fire it.

[ocabj]