Mounting a scope on your AR-15 can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and overall experience. However, it's a process that requires precision and understanding. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you achieve a secure and reliable scope mounting setup. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer, this detailed walkthrough will equip you with the knowledge to perform the task correctly and safely.
Choosing the Right AR-15 Scope Mount
Before you even think about mounting, you need the right equipment. The selection of your scope mount is crucial for both accuracy and the longevity of your firearm and optic. Here's what to consider:
Type of Mount:
- Picatinny/Weaver Rails: Almost all modern AR-15s feature a Picatinny rail system (sometimes called a Weaver rail, though there are subtle differences). This provides a standardized mounting platform for scopes and other accessories. Ensure your scope rings or mount are compatible with this rail system.
- Offset Mounts: These allow you to mount your scope at an angle, useful for certain shooting positions or when using a red dot sight in conjunction with a magnified scope.
- Low Profile vs. High Profile: Low-profile mounts sit closer to the receiver, offering a lower sight picture. High-profile mounts provide more clearance for larger objectives lenses, but can raise the overall height of your scope. Choose based on your scope's size and your personal preference.
Material:
- Aluminum: The most common material, offering a good balance of strength and weight. Look for high-quality aluminum alloys like 6061-T6 for superior durability.
- Steel: Stronger and more durable than aluminum, but significantly heavier. A good choice for high-recoil applications.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Mounts:
- One-Piece Mounts: These offer greater rigidity and are generally preferred for their superior stability and accuracy.
- Two-Piece Mounts (Rings): More affordable and allow for some adjustability in scope height. However, they can be slightly less rigid than one-piece mounts.
Tools and Materials You'll Need:
- AR-15 Scope Mount: Choose the appropriate type and size based on your scope and rifle.
- Scope: Your chosen optic.
- Torque Wrench: Absolutely essential for properly tightening screws without damaging your equipment. Use the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications.
- Screwdrivers: Appropriate sized for your mount's screws.
- Allen Wrenches: Often required for tightening rings or mount components.
- Gun Cleaning Kit: Clean your rifle's upper receiver before mounting to prevent debris from interfering.
- Gun Oil/Lube: Lubricate the rail and screws for smoother operation.
- Level (optional): Helpful for ensuring your scope is perfectly level.
Mounting Your AR-15 Scope: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Rifle: Ensure your AR-15 is unloaded and clear of ammunition. Clean the upper receiver's Picatinny rail thoroughly.
2. Attach the Mount: Carefully align the mount to the Picatinny rail. Make sure it's seated properly and evenly before tightening the screws. Use your torque wrench to tighten to the manufacturer's specifications. Do not overtighten.
3. Mount the Scope: Carefully place the scope into the rings or mount. Ensure it's securely seated and centered.
4. Tighten the Rings or Mount: Use your torque wrench to tighten the rings or mount screws to the manufacturer's specifications. Again, avoid overtightening.
5. Level Your Scope: Use a level to ensure your scope is perfectly level. Slight adjustments may be necessary.
6. Test and Adjust: Take your rifle to the range and perform a thorough zeroing process. You may need to make minor adjustments to the scope's windage and elevation turrets to achieve optimal accuracy.
Zeroing Your AR-15 Scope
Zeroing your scope is critical for accurate shooting. This typically involves shooting at various distances and making adjustments to the scope's windage and elevation turrets until you achieve consistent bullet impacts on your target.
Safety First!
Remember, always prioritize safety. Handle firearms responsibly, treat every weapon as if it were loaded, and always follow proper gun safety procedures. If you're unsure about any aspect of this process, consult a qualified gunsmith or experienced shooter for assistance.
This detailed guide provides a solid foundation for mounting a scope on your AR-15. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your equipment's manuals for specific instructions and torque specifications. Happy shooting!
