Scope rings - how tight? Tricks to keep the scope in place?

[mhmr623]

Hi All,

Just curious about how much I can tighten the scope rings on the scope. I'm having a problem with the scope shifting as I shoot. I tighten it as much as I can using the shorter side of the allen wrench. I can probably go tighter, but I'm afraid I'll damage the scope. Any tips on how tight to make it or any tips on how to get the scope to stop shifting?

Thanks!

P.s. I'm shooting a 10/22

[pennys dad]

question are the rings for a dovetail/tip off bases?
or is it tapped?

[diverwcw]

I heard a high end pistolsmith recently say, turn it finger tight then a quarter turn.

[mhmr623]

Oh sorry... To clarify - I meant the scope to the scope rings, not the scope rings to the mount.

[Stoopy]

You could always lap the rings to make sure you are getting the most contact between the scope and rings. Lapping the rings takes off the high spots and makes everything straight so you won't put unwanted stress on your scope. Uneven receivers, bases, and rings can put things out of alignment causing ring marks and also can damage scopes.

[Stoopy]

What scope and rings are you using? I use an inch pounds screwdriver to tighten scope rings. Different rings call for different torques.

[mhmr623]

I'm using a Nikon prostaff 2-7x32 with these rings http://www.midwayusa.com/Product/186...er-10-22-matte.

[Stoopy]

Try tightening them down a little more with the other end of the Allen wrench. If that doesn't work I would try lapping the rings.

[mhmr623]

Any guidelines at all on when to stop? Just afraid I'll damage the scope.

[stevec223]

rings

i lap them....then watch gap on both sides between rings to tighten evenly...alternate between screws on both sides....stop when allen wrench bends more than turns....throw allen wrench in trash and get a torx driver or whatever....much better to feel the tightness...cheers...

[Stoopy]

Any guidelines at all on when to stop? Just afraid I'll damage the scope.

Do you have a inch pound screwdriver? If not its hard to describe the feel of how tight to tighten them. I would probably start with 20 inch pounds, depending on screw size.

[GM4spd]

Go EASY,it's only a 22, not a rifle/pistol that is generating recoil where
super tight may be required. Pete

[Izzy43]

Any guidelines at all on when to stop? Just afraid I'll damage the scope.

If you don't have or can't borrow a torque screwdriver I suggest you take it to a gunsmith. Couldn't cost that much. Normal torque for aluminum rings is between 16-20 in/lbs.