Weatherby Rifle and Winchester Model 70

Why Have Your Scope Mounted by a Professional?

Published on March 08, 2025 by Cameron Gunsmith

Rifle scopes have revolutionized long-range accuracy, but their performance depends entirely on proper installation. Many shooters assume that mounting a scope is as simple as tightening a few screws, but there’s much more to it. Incorrect mounting can lead to poor accuracy, misalignment, scope damage, and even firearm malfunctions.

At Cameron Gunsmith, we’ve seen too many rifles come in with loose, crooked, or damaged scopes—often installed incorrectly by the owner or a big-box retailer lacking gunsmithing expertise. In this article, we’ll cover why having your scope mounted by a professional is a decision that directly impacts your shooting performance and equipment longevity.

What Happens If a Scope Is Mounted Incorrectly?

A misaligned scope affects more than just your ability to hit a target. Here’s what can go wrong:

  • Loss of Accuracy: Even a minor misalignment will cause significant deviation at long ranges.
  • Scope Canting: If the reticle isn’t perfectly level, shots will drift, especially at longer distances.
  • Improper Eye Relief: Poor placement can cause scope shadow or “scope bite” (injury from recoil).
  • Over-Torqued Screws: Excessive tightening can crack scope tubes or damage rings.
  • Loose Mounting: If not properly torqued, vibration and recoil will shift the scope, throwing off zero.

The Science Behind Professional Scope Mounting

Mounting a scope requires precision and expertise. A professional gunsmith follows a step-by-step process to ensure perfect alignment and stability.

🔹 Step 1: Selecting the Right Rings and Base

Scopes come in different tube diameters (1-inch, 30mm, 34mm, etc.), and not all rings are compatible. The mounting base also needs to match the rifle’s action (Weaver, Picatinny, dovetail, etc.). A gunsmith ensures the perfect fit, preventing stress and misalignment.

🔹 Step 2: Lapping the Rings

Factory scope rings are rarely perfectly aligned. A professional uses a lapping tool to smooth out imperfections and create full contact between the rings and scope tube. This prevents uneven pressure, which can cause tube bending.

🔹 Step 3: Leveling the Reticle

The reticle must be perfectly horizontal. Even a 1-degree tilt can lead to drift at long distances. A gunsmith uses precision levels to align the reticle exactly parallel to the rifle’s bore.

🔹 Step 4: Setting Proper Eye Relief

Eye relief determines how far your eye is from the scope. If it's too close, you risk recoil injury. If it's too far, you’ll struggle with poor sight picture. A professional ensures the correct distance for a clear, full field of view.

🔹 Step 5: Torqueing to Specification

Every screw has a torque specification. Over-tightening can crack the tube, while under-tightening can cause movement. Gunsmiths use torque wrenches for exact tightness, ensuring maximum durability.

Signs You Need Professional Scope Adjustment

Even if your scope is already mounted, here are signs it may need professional correction:

  • Inconsistent Groups: Your shots should form tight clusters. If they don’t, your scope may be shifting.
  • Reticle Not Level: If horizontal crosshairs don’t align with the rifle, long-range shots will drift.
  • Frequent Zeroing Issues: If you constantly adjust your zero, your scope may be moving under recoil.
  • Blurred or Dark Image: Incorrect eye relief can lead to vignetting or poor sight picture.

Alternative Scope Mounting Systems

Not all mounts are traditional. Here are some modern alternatives:

🔹 Quick-Detach (QD) Mounts

Ideal for tactical setups, these allow easy removal and reattachment without losing zero.

🔹 One-Piece Mounts

Provides superior alignment and strength compared to two-piece rings.

🔹 Adjustable MOA Mounts

For long-range shooters, these add elevation compensation without using internal turret adjustments.

Final Thoughts

Scope mounting is more than just tightening screws—it’s a precision process that directly impacts your rifle’s performance. Whether you’re hunting, competing, or shooting for recreation, having your scope professionally mounted ensures accuracy, longevity, and reliability.

At Cameron Gunsmith, we specialize in expert scope mounting using industry-best tools and techniques. Don't leave accuracy to chance—let us mount your scope the right way.

Need your scope professionally mounted? Contact us today and experience the difference precision makes.