How To Mount A Scope On An Ar 15?
How to Mount a Scope on an AR-15
The AR-15 is a popular rifle for both hunting and self-defense. One of the most important modifications you can make to your AR-15 is to add a scope. A scope will help you to make more accurate shots, especially at longer distances.
In this article, we will show you how to mount a scope on an AR-15. We will cover the different types of scopes available, the steps involved in mounting a scope, and some tips for choosing the right scope for your needs.
So, whether you’re a new AR-15 owner or you’re just looking to upgrade your current scope, read on for all the information you need to know!
What is a Scope?
A scope is a telescopic sight that is mounted on a rifle. It allows the shooter to see a magnified image of the target, making it easier to aim and hit the target.
There are many different types of scopes available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of scopes for AR-15s include:
- Hunting scopes: These scopes are designed for long-range shooting, and they typically have high magnification powers and large objective lenses.
- Tactical scopes: These scopes are designed for self-defense and law enforcement use, and they typically have lower magnification powers and smaller objective lenses.
- Red dot scopes: These scopes are designed for fast target acquisition, and they typically have a red dot or holographic reticle.
How to Mount a Scope on an AR-15
Mounting a scope on an AR-15 is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the scope is properly installed.
The following steps will show you how to mount a scope on an AR-15:
1. Choose the right scope for your needs. As we mentioned above, there are many different types of scopes available. Take some time to research the different options and choose a scope that is best suited for your needs.
2. Install the scope rings. The first step is to install the scope rings on the rifle. Most AR-15s have a Picatinny rail on the top of the receiver, which is where the scope rings will be mounted.
3. Attach the scope to the rings. Once the scope rings are installed, you can attach the scope to them. Most scopes come with a set of rings that are specifically designed for that scope.
4. Adjust the scope. Once the scope is attached, you will need to adjust it for proper eye relief and focus. Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope when you are looking through it. Focus is the ability to see the target clearly.
Tips for Choosing the Right Scope for Your AR-15
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a scope for your AR-15.
- Your intended use: The first thing you need to consider is what you will be using the scope for. If you are planning on using it for hunting, you will need a scope with a high magnification power and a large objective lens. If you are planning on using it for self-defense, you will need a scope with a lower magnification power and a smaller objective lens.
- Your budget: Scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your options.
- Your skill level: If you are a beginner shooter, you may want to choose a scope with a simple reticle that is easy to use. If you are an experienced shooter, you may want to choose a scope with a more complex reticle that offers more features.
Mounting a scope on an AR-15 is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the scope is properly installed. By following the steps in this article, you can easily mount a scope on your AR-15 and start taking advantage of the increased accuracy that a scope provides.
| Step | Instructions | Image |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose the right scope for your AR-15. |  |
| 2 | Mount the scope rings to the rifle’s receiver. |  |
| 3 | Attach the scope to the rings. |  |
| 4 | Adjust the scope’s eye relief and focus. |  |
Choosing the Right Scope for Your AR-15
What factors to consider when choosing a scope
When choosing a scope for your AR-15, there are a few factors you need to consider. These include:
- Your intended use for the scope. Are you planning on using it for hunting, target shooting, or self-defense? The intended use of the scope will determine the features you need, such as magnification power, field of view, and reticle type.
- Your budget. Scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so you can narrow down your options.
- Your shooting skills. If you’re a beginner shooter, you may want to choose a scope with a lower magnification power and a simple reticle. This will make it easier to aim and track your target.
- The size and weight of the scope. You need to make sure the scope is compatible with your AR-15 and that it’s not too heavy or bulky for you to comfortably use.
Types of scopes available
There are a variety of different types of scopes available for AR-15s. The most common types include:
- Hunting scopes: These scopes are designed for long-range shooting and typically have a magnification power of 4x to 12x. They often have a wide field of view and a duplex or crosshair reticle.
- Target shooting scopes: These scopes are designed for precision shooting at short to medium ranges. They typically have a magnification power of 6x to 10x and a fine crosshair or dot reticle.
- Self-defense scopes: These scopes are designed for close-range shooting and typically have a magnification power of 1x to 4x. They often have a red dot or holographic reticle.
Budgeting for a scope
The price of a scope can vary significantly, depending on the features it offers. You can find scopes for AR-15s for as little as $100, but you can also spend thousands of dollars on a high-end scope.
When budgeting for a scope, it’s important to consider the intended use of the scope, your shooting skills, and the size and weight of the scope. You should also factor in the cost of mounting rings or a mount for the scope.
Choosing the right scope for your AR-15 can be a challenge, but it’s important to take the time to do your research so you can find a scope that meets your needs. By considering the factors listed above, you can narrow down your options and find a scope that will help you improve your shooting accuracy.
Mounting the Scope to Your AR-15
The different types of scope mounts available
There are a variety of different types of scope mounts available for AR-15s. The most common types include:
- Ring mounts: These are the most popular type of scope mount for AR-15s. They consist of two rings that are attached to the receiver of the rifle. The scope is then attached to the rings.
- Picatinny rail mounts: These mounts are attached to the Picatinny rail on the top of the receiver. The scope is then attached to the rail.
- Bolt-on mounts: These mounts are attached to the receiver of the rifle using bolts. The scope is then attached to the mount.
How to install a scope mount on your AR-15
Installing a scope mount on your AR-15 is a relatively simple process. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the mount is installed correctly.
To install a scope mount, you will need the following tools:
- A set of Allen wrenches
- A screwdriver
- A torque wrench
- A scope mount
- A scope
1. Remove the factory iron sights. If your AR-15 has factory iron sights, you will need to remove them before you can install a scope mount. To do this, use an Allen wrench to loosen the screws that hold the sights in place. Once the screws are loose, you can carefully pry the sights off of the rifle.
2. Install the scope mount. Once the factory iron sights are removed, you can install the scope mount. To do this, align the mount with the receiver of the rifle and tighten the screws that hold it in place.
3. Attach the scope to the mount. Once the scope mount is installed, you can attach the scope to it. To do this, align the scope with the mount and tighten
3. Using a Scope with Your AR-15
Once you have mounted your scope on your AR-15, it is time to learn how to use it. Here are a few tips:
- Start with the basics. Before you start taking long-range shots, practice shooting at close range with your scope. This will help you get used to the way the scope works and how to make adjustments.
- Use the right magnification. The magnification of your scope will determine how far away you can see your target. For close-range shooting, you will want a lower magnification, such as 4x or 6x. For long-range shooting, you will want a higher magnification, such as 10x or 12x.
- Make adjustments. Your scope will have a number of adjustments that you can make to fine-tune your aim. These adjustments include windage, elevation, and focus. You will need to make these adjustments based on the conditions you are shooting in.
- Practice, practice, practice. The best way to learn how to use a scope is to practice. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with it and the better you will be at making accurate shots.
Common Problems with Scopes and How to Fix Them
There are a few common problems that you may encounter with your scope. Here are some tips on how to fix them:
- The scope is not sighted in properly. If your shots are not hitting where you are aiming, the scope may not be sighted in properly. You can fix this by adjusting the windage and elevation knobs on the scope.
- The scope is blurry. If the scope is blurry, you may need to adjust the focus knob.
- The scope is fogging up. If the scope is fogging up, you can try to clear it by wiping it with a dry cloth. If the fogging is persistent, you may need to purchase a scope defogger.
- The scope is damaged. If the scope is damaged, you may need to have it repaired or replaced.
Maintenance and Care for Your Scope
To keep your scope in good condition, you should follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean the scope regularly. You should clean the scope with a dry cloth after each use. If the scope is dirty or dusty, you can use a mild cleaning solution.
- Store the scope in a safe place. When you are not using the scope, you should store it in a safe place where it will not be damaged.
- Protect the scope from the elements. You should protect the scope from the elements, such as rain, snow, and dust.
A scope can be a valuable asset for any AR-15 owner. By following these tips, you can learn how to use a scope effectively and get the most out of your AR-15.
Q: What tools do I need to mount a scope on an AR-15?
A: You will need the following tools:
- A screwdriver
- A torque wrench
- A scope ring alignment tool
- A level
Q: What type of scope should I use on my AR-15?
A: The type of scope you use will depend on your intended use for the rifle. For general purpose shooting, a 1x-4x variable power scope is a good option. For hunting, a 3-9x variable power scope is a good choice. For long-range shooting, a 4-12x or 6-24x variable power scope is a good option.
Q: How do I mount a scope on an AR-15?
A: To mount a scope on an AR-15, follow these steps:
1. Remove the factory iron sights from the rifle.
2. Clean the mounting surfaces of the rifle and the scope rings with a degreaser.
3. Apply a thin coat of threadlocker to the screws that will attach the scope rings to the rifle.
4. Align the scope rings on the rifle and tighten the screws until they are snug.
5. Use the scope ring alignment tool to make sure that the scope rings are parallel to each other.
6. Tighten the screws on the scope rings until they are snug.
7. Level the scope by adjusting the windage and elevation turrets.
8. Mount the scope to the rifle by attaching the scope rings to the scope.
Q: What is the best way to zero a scope on an AR-15?
A: To zero a scope on an AR-15, follow these steps:
1. Find a safe shooting range.
2. Set up a target at 25 yards.
3. Load your rifle with a round of ammunition.
4. Aim the rifle at the target and fire a shot.
5. Observe where the bullet hit the target.
6. Adjust the windage and elevation turrets on the scope until the bullet hits the center of the target.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until the bullet hits the center of the target consistently.
Q: What are some common mistakes people make when mounting a scope on an AR-15?
A: Some common mistakes people make when mounting a scope on an AR-15 include:
- Not using the correct tools.
- Not cleaning the mounting surfaces before mounting the scope.
- Not using threadlocker on the screws that attach the scope rings to the rifle.
- Not aligning the scope rings properly.
- Not tightening the screws on the scope rings enough.
- Not leveling the scope.
- Not zeroing the scope properly.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can mount a scope on your AR-15 correctly and ensure that it is accurate.
mounting a scope on an AR-15 is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the scope is properly aligned and secured. By taking the time to do this, you can improve your accuracy and make the most of your AR-15.
Here are some key takeaways from this article:
- The first step is to choose the right scope for your AR-15. Consider the magnification, reticle, and eye relief.
- Once you have chosen a scope, you need to mount it to the rifle. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a scope mount.
- Once the scope is mounted, you need to align it. This can be done by using a bore sighter or by using a laser boresighter.
- Finally, you need to secure the scope to the rifle. This can be done by tightening the screws on the scope mount.
By following these steps, you can easily mount a scope on your AR-15 and improve your accuracy.