How to Choose Scope Rings

Overview
You just purchased a new rifle and it is time to mount your scope. Quality rifle scopes can provide safer and more-accurate shooting. The link between your scope and rifle are the rings and bases. Deciding what kind of bases and rings you are going to mount to the rifle can be very confusing considering there are so many different types of guns. Choosing scope rings can be much easier if you know how you are intending to use the rifle. A varmint rifle will need different rings than a dangerous game rifle.
Step 1
Determine whether your rifle has been drilled and tapped. Consult the rifle's manual if you have any questions about whether or not your rifle has been tapped. The majority of today's rifles come with pre-drilled holes to install the scope mount bases and rings.
Step 2
Choose your scope and determine the objective size. This is very important when determining the scope rings to ensure that the objective clears the barrel. The goal is to get the shortest rings that the scope allows without the scope actually touching the barrel.
Step 3
Consider steel and aluminum rings. Steel provides the strongest rings, but aluminum can be used if weight is a factor. Also consider quick-release rings if you intend on using your rifle with open sights.
Step 4
Determine ring height based on the rifle and objective size of the scope, and make sure that the ring inside diameter matches the scope's tube diameter. Typical measurements are 1 inch and 30 mm. Consider bolt lift, objective size, eye relief, and barrel when choosing ring height.
Skill-Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need
Rifle
Rifle scope
Bases
Rings
Screwdriver

Tips
Choose the strongest rings and bases that you can afford and install correctly with professional help using a gun vise. Always consult the manual if you have any questions about compatibility with your rifle.
Warnings
Do not overtighten or use adhesives once you choose the scope rings. The rings and bases are the weakest link on your rifle so make sure you have a properly fitted connection to the rifle and scope.