How To Mount A Scope On Ar 15?

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

How to Mount a Scope on an AR-15

The AR-15 is a versatile and popular rifle that can be used for a variety of purposes, from hunting to self-defense. One of the most important modifications you can make to an AR-15 is to add a scope. A scope will allow you to make more accurate shots at longer distances, and it can also be helpful for target shooting.

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.

What is a Scope?

A scope is a telescopic device that is used to magnify objects that are far away. Scopes are typically used for hunting, target shooting, and other activities that require accurate shooting at long distances.

There are many different types of scopes available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Some of the most common types of scopes include:

  • Hunting scopes: Hunting scopes are designed for quick target acquisition and accurate shooting at short to medium ranges. They typically have low magnification powers (4x to 10x) and wide fields of view.
  • Target shooting scopes: Target shooting scopes are designed for precision shooting at long distances. They typically have high magnification powers (10x to 20x) and narrow fields of view.
  • Tactical scopes: Tactical scopes are designed for use in a variety of situations, including self-defense and law enforcement. They typically have variable magnification powers (3x to 12x) and a variety of features, such as illuminated reticles and night vision capabilities.

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 and secured.

The following are the steps involved in mounting 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, so it is important to choose one that is right for your intended use.
2. Install the scope rings. Scope rings are the mounting hardware that attaches the scope to the rifle. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so it is important to choose the right ones for your rifle and scope.
3. Mount the scope to the rifle. Once the scope rings are installed, you can mount the scope to the rifle. This is typically done by tightening the screws on the scope rings.
4. Adjust the scope. Once the scope is mounted, you will need to adjust it for proper eye relief and accuracy. Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece when you are looking through the scope. Accuracy is the ability of the scope to accurately hit targets at different distances.

Tips for Choosing the Right Scope for Your AR-15

When choosing a scope for your AR-15, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

  • Your intended use: The most important factor to consider when choosing a scope is your intended use. If you plan on using your AR-15 for hunting, you will need a scope with a low magnification power and a wide field of view. If you plan on using your AR-15 for target shooting, you will need a scope with a high magnification power and a narrow field of view.
  • 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 choices.
  • Your skill level: If you are a beginner shooter, you may want to choose a scope with simple features that are easy to use. If you are an experienced shooter, you may want to choose a scope with more advanced features, such as illuminated reticles and night vision capabilities.

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 and secured. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right scope for your needs and mount it on your AR-15 with confidence.

How to Mount a Scope on AR-15?

Choosing the Right Scope

The first step in mounting a scope on your AR-15 is choosing the right scope. There are a number of factors to consider when making this decision, including:

  • Your intended use for the rifle. If you plan on using your AR-15 for hunting, you will need a scope with a different set of features than if you plan on using it for target shooting or home defense.
  • 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 shooting skills. If you are a novice shooter, you may want to choose a scope with a simple reticle that is easy to use. More experienced shooters may want a scope with a more complex reticle that offers more features.

Here is a more detailed look at each of these factors:

  • Your intended use for the rifle. If you plan on using your AR-15 for hunting, you will need a scope with a high magnification power. This will allow you to see your target clearly at a distance. However, a scope with a high magnification power will also make it more difficult to track your target as it moves. For this reason, it is important to choose a scope with a magnification power that is appropriate for the type of hunting you will be doing.
  • Your budget. Scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of a scope will depend on a number of factors, including the quality of the optics, the features included, and the brand name. If you are on a tight budget, you can find a good quality scope for a few hundred dollars. However, if you are willing to spend more money, you can get a scope with better optics and more features.
  • Your shooting skills. If you are a novice shooter, you may want to choose a scope with a simple reticle that is easy to use. A simple reticle will make it easier for you to aim and track your target. More experienced shooters may want a scope with a more complex reticle that offers more features. A complex reticle can be helpful for making precise shots at long distances.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your options. There are a number of good scopes available on the market, so you should be able to find one that meets your needs and budget.

Types of Scopes

There are a number of different types of scopes available for AR-15s. The most common type of scope is a variable-power scope. This type of scope allows you to change the magnification power, which is useful for different shooting applications. For example, you can use a low magnification power for hunting at close range and a high magnification power for hunting at long range.

Other types of scopes that are available for AR-15s include:

  • Fixed-power scopes: These scopes have a fixed magnification power, which means you cannot change it. Fixed-power scopes are typically less expensive than variable-power scopes, but they offer less flexibility.
  • Red dot sights: Red dot sights are a type of scope that uses a red dot to help you aim. Red dot sights are very quick to acquire targets, but they do not offer as much magnification as traditional scopes.
  • Holographic sights: Holographic sights are similar to red dot sights, but they use a holographic image to help you aim. Holographic sights are very clear and easy to use, but they are also more expensive than red dot sights.

Budget Considerations

Scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of a scope will depend on a number of factors, including the quality of the optics, the features included, and the brand name. If you are on a tight budget, you can find a good quality scope for a few hundred dollars. However, if you are willing to spend more money, you can get a scope with better optics and more features.

Here is a general price range for different types of scopes:

  • Fixed-power scopes: $100 – $500
  • Variable-power scopes: $200 – $1,000
  • Red dot sights: $100 – $300
  • Holographic sights: $300 – $1,000

Mounting the Scope

Once you have chosen the right scope for your AR-15, you need to

3. Zeroing the Scope

What is zeroing?

Zeroing a scope is the process of aligning the point of impact of the bullet with the crosshairs of the scope. This ensures that when you aim at a target, the bullet will hit it.

How to zero your scope

To zero your scope, you will need:

  • A rifle with a scope
  • A shooting rest
  • A target
  • Ammunition

1. Mount the scope to the rifle and attach the shooting rest to a stable surface.
2. Set up the target at a distance of 25 yards.
3. Load the rifle with ammunition and fire a shot at the target.
4. Adjust the scope’s windage and elevation turrets until the point of impact of the bullet is aligned with the crosshairs of the scope.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you are satisfied with the zero.

Tips for getting a good zero

Here are a few tips for getting a good zero:

  • Use a quality scope and ammunition.
  • Make sure the rifle is properly sighted in.
  • Use a steady shooting position.
  • Take your time and make sure each shot is accurate.
  • Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you are satisfied with the zero.

4. Maintaining Your Scope

How to clean and maintain your scope

To keep your scope in good condition, it is important to clean and maintain it regularly. Here are a few tips:

  • Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior of the scope.
  • Use a lens cleaning kit to clean the lenses.
  • Avoid getting moisture inside the scope.
  • Store the scope in a safe place when not in use.

How to store your scope

When storing your scope, it is important to protect it from damage. Here are a few tips:

  • Store the scope in a hard-sided case.
  • Use a desiccant pack to absorb moisture.
  • Store the scope in a cool, dry place.

Signs of a damaged scope and when to replace it

There are a few signs that your scope may be damaged and need to be replaced. These include:

  • The lenses are scratched or cloudy.
  • The scope is not holding zero.
  • The scope is leaking.
  • The scope is damaged in any way.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to replace your scope as soon as possible. Using a damaged scope can be dangerous and may lead to injury.

How to Mount a Scope on an AR-15?

Q: What tools do I need to mount a scope on my AR-15?

A: You will need the following tools:

  • A set of AR-15 scope rings
  • A torque wrench
  • A set of Allen wrenches
  • A screwdriver
  • A cleaning cloth

Q: What kind of scope rings do I need?

A: The type of scope rings you need will depend on the type of scope you are using. For most AR-15s, you will need a set of low-profile scope rings. These rings are designed to sit close to the rail, which helps to improve your sight picture.

Q: How do I install scope rings on my AR-15?

A: To install scope rings on your AR-15, follow these steps:

1. Remove the rear sight from your AR-15.
2. Clean the area where the scope rings will be installed.
3. Apply a small amount of thread locker to the screws that come with the scope rings.
4. Align the scope rings with the rail on your AR-15.
5. Tighten the screws on the scope rings until they are snug.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 for the front scope ring.

Q: How do I level my scope?

A: To level your scope, follow these steps:

1. Mount your scope on your AR-15.
2. Place your AR-15 on a flat surface.
3. Look through the scope and adjust the elevation turret until the crosshairs are level.
4. Look through the scope and adjust the windage turret until the crosshairs are centered on a target.

Q: How do I zero my scope?

A: To zero your scope, follow these steps:

1. Find a safe location to shoot.
2. Set up a target at a known distance.
3. Mount your scope on your AR-15.
4. Load your AR-15 with ammunition.
5. Aim at the target and fire a shot.
6. Adjust the elevation turret until the bullet hits the target.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until the bullet is consistently hitting the target.

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:

  • Using the wrong type of scope rings.
  • Not using enough thread locker.
  • Not tightening the screws on the scope rings enough.
  • Not leveling the scope.
  • Not zeroing the scope.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your scope is properly mounted and that you are able to achieve accurate shots.

mounting a scope on an AR-15 is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the steps carefully in order to ensure a secure and accurate installation. By taking the time to properly mount your scope, you can improve your accuracy and enjoy the benefits of using a magnified optic on your AR-15.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

  • The first step is to choose the right scope for your AR-15.
  • Once you have selected a scope, you will need to mount it to the rifle.
  • There are two main types of scope mounts: rings and bases.
  • Rings are typically used for lightweight scopes, while bases are more suitable for heavier scopes.
  • The next step is to align the scope with the bore of the rifle.
  • This can be done using a bore sighter or by using a laser collimator.
  • Once the scope is aligned, you can tighten the screws on the mount to secure it in place.

By following these steps, you can easily mount a scope on your AR-15 and start enjoying the benefits of using a magnified optic.

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