How to Mount a Scope the Right Way

Here I show you step by step how to precision mount a scope and what equipment you need.
Scope Mounting Bundle:
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Gary Melton is a former U.S. Army Special Forces Green Beret, Weapons Sergeant, and Sniper Team Leader with 4 combat tours. He has worked full time as a Unit Chief and Special Tactics Instructor at a federal agency and is the owner and Lead Instructor for Paramount Tactical Solutions.
Paramount Tactical Solutions is staffed by Special Operations veterans and cadre that are required to have high level operational experience and to have worked full time as a tactical instructor for Federal Law Enforcement and/or the military. Paramount specializes in training Military and LE units as well as civilians in firearms, tactics, security, and tactical medicine. Most of our courses are located 1.5hrs from Washington DC, near Winchester, VA. We are mobile and can provide onsite training as well.
Survival IS Paramount

[@doctorres896]

My personal opinion as a 25 year veteran (55 y/o) who worked with SOC South in multiple missions, this is by far the best instructional video I’ve ever seen. Gary is a true professional, thank you for putting out great useful information.

[@paramounttactical]

Hey brother, thank you for that endorsement. It means a lot. I appreciate you watching and your support. Join us for our Livestream podcast tonight at 7pm EST. DOL -Gary

[@equalleftrights3130]

If you're retarded and shoot 20 rds twice a year at 300yds, then yes. If you shoot long distances over 1000, this is akin to a 12 year old giving life advice. This is how beginners learn to do it..later you find out about things like coriolis and other aspects of LR and realize this is the retarded way of doing it and why your .5 mil left firing solution missed the target completely at 1400yds. Go learn about an ancient, incredible tool called a plumb bob and go from there.

[@NSWvet83]

What does working with SOC have to do with the opinion? Everyone has worked with SOC because SOC/JSOC is everywhere. Even a cook would could say they worked with SOC.

[@airborne350g]

@@NSWvet83agreed… I have met at least 5000 Seals that served in Vietnam. 😂 ​​⁠​⁠​⁠Also this instructor could have easily mounted the rifle better in the rifle vise so it wouldn’t move and use the leveling feet on the vise to level it. And he said he doesn’t us the plum bob because it is difficult for him to keep it level looking through. You don’t look through the scope, you shine a light through it to show the reticle on the wall where the plum bob is mounted. Not all turret caps are level to the reticle.

[@skysurferuk]

Useful information given at 100mph! 🤣

[@allenfackler]

The Wheeler level-level-level kit is a must have, IMO. Been using it for years with good results. One good way to adjust eye relief is to shoulder the rifle with the scope in the rings, but loose enough to slide with some effort. Once you get close, shoulder your rifle with your eyes closed, then open your eyes. If you're good, you will have a nice clear picture from your natural hold.

[@Mr.Riojas]

Useful and applicable as always, thank you sir.

[@jessearroyo3927]

Excellent video. Thank you!

[@bobbriggs8730]

This is the best video on mounting a scope correctly on KZbin.

[@kylemckee5333]

Thanks for taking time and going through each step slow so everyone can learn from you 👍

[@augmar3826]

Great video. Excellent how-to! Thanks so much

[@TexasGuitarTech]

Great information! Thanks

[@trentfrancis4646]

Simple, easy to understand. Great job

[@911saltlife]

I used this method and it turned out great. First time mounting a scope and there are so many different suggestions on KZbin but this seemed to make the most logical sense. Thanks for the video!

[@blkcivicsi2k0]

Great video and very concise!

[@flext6166]

Happy New Year Gary!! Thanks again for a very informative vid.

[@gregrauscher4524]

I went and bought a gun vice. Over the years I have mounted quite a few scopes and you have now taught me all that I was doing wrong. Much appreciated. My oldest brother was LRRP sniper in 'Nam 63-65 before regular hit boots on ground. We talked about his working with 'Nards going into Camcodia BUT he refused to shoot after he got back. So much respect for what you guys do and in 1 video I learned more than my previous 62 years shooting. Subscribed!

[@mikewithers299]

Just found your channel as I'm looking to mount a scope on my AR, and wanted to get it right the 1st time. You nailed it for me! It's not my first time, just a first for AR's. You gave me a lot of good tips to consider, and my OCD thanks you. Subbed and liked! Thank you for your service 🇺🇸

[@TheJuls630]

Great video. Thanks for the info.

[@bobwiese6128]

Great job Gary. Cheers!

[@butchshootingidiot8721]

This is the most informative video on scope mounting I have ever seen. I have mounted a lot of scopes over the years but now I see a lot of mistakes I have done. Thank you so much for producing this video. And thank you for your time in the service. I too am a first-time viewer and just subscribed to your channel. Thank you again for the lesson on mounting scopes.

[@paramounttactical]

Butch, thank you for the kind words, it’s appreciated. I’m dumb and a visual/kinesthetic learner, so I break things down step by step,the way I would need it shown to me. I’m glad you subscribed. Definitely check out our other videos and join us on a Friday’s at 7pm ET for our livestreams. Glad you’re part of the Paramount family now. Thanks for watching! -Gary

[@joeyrittierodt6958]

Very good vid ! As a hunter and all the glass I've installed on my hunting rifles have always worked just fine. Now I'm wanting to get into long range PRS and this is going to help A LOT Thank you for the vid and Thank you for your service!

[@wxexw]

Brilliant process! Excellent tool reference too. Thank you for the time and information.

[@camcordertv]

Wow !!! Amazing video. Thank you 🙏🏽

[@Happ465]

I just happen to come across your channel this morning, thankfully. I have seriously been looking at getting a Ruger Precision in 17 hmr. I’ve been researching scopes as well. I had no idea how precise you need to be to make all this work. Once I saw the how and why it was so obvious. Thank you so much. I’m a reasonably new shooter but I’m learning quickly as I am already changing out parts and improving my guns. This will be another extension of my knowledge with this new project. I will be looking at your courses for sure.

[@paramounttactical]

Glad you found us. You’ll get a lot out of our Long Range Course and it will ultimately save you time, money, lots of wasted rounds, and frustration. There a Long Range playlist on our channel. Lots of informative videos there to get you started. Thanks for watching! -Gary

[@nunaburger]

Thank you for the great content. I found the tutorial and recommended products very helpful. I’m just getting into marksmanship after many years and really wanted to up my scope knowledge. Thanks again

[@paramounttactical]

Thanks for watching. Definitely join us on Wednesdays at 7pm EST for our Live Dangerous Liberty podcast. Besides covering a wide range of topics and having on special guests you can ask questions live. Thanks, Gary

[@josephgroff4131]

Great video, I will certainly use your tips

[@pookmartinez2583]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge 🙏🙌💪

[@silsdad]

As a retired SeaBee who knows very little about this stuff, I am grateful for the “plain speak” delivery of knowledge and information that is necessary now that I’m craving an understanding of distance shooting. Thank you. You’ll hear from me again.

[@vincef5832]

I use plain ole line levels. They work fine. Very practical advice offered on this video. Beginners will find it useful. Not all receivers are the same. So there are times the barrel mounted level will come in handy. I manage fine with my line levels, but the barrel mounted level is worth getting.

[@nitaistein]

Thank you for the advice

[@jeremywood357]

Thanks for the awesome tutorial!

[@slimjim7671]

I am so glad I found this channel! Thank you Gary for your service, and for making these awesome videos! Great content!

[@paramounttactical]

Jim, we’re glad you found us too! Thanks for watching and your kind words. I hope to see you in the comments often! -Gary

[@ArkansasBadBoy]

I was always a bit skeptical of this method since I'm a long range person and have my own system. I went ahead and bought the Wheeler kit and replicated your process, then proceeded to look through the scope at a plumb line I set up ahead of time (verified zero degree cant every 4 inches all the way to 60 inches with my digital degree/angle finder). I also turned on my Tough Tactical precision digital scope level, which I mounted ahead of time. I was delighted to see that everything was perfect and I'm convinced your method is indeed a good one.

[@outdoorsinaz1909]

Thanks for the tutorial!

[@warbuzzard7167]

I've been doing this stuff for a long time, with nary a lesson other than logic, some personal experience working on car stuff, and looking around for data from the optics companies. I do this exactly (almost to a "T") like you do. I am delighted to find out my own method meets your considerable experience and that my skills were honed by doing things incorrectly - which means I learned how to do it right by doing it wrong many times.

[@paramounttactical]

I’m glad to hear! Just remember that regardless of mounting method, the key is to shoot a tall target test. That’s what confirms that you’ve mounted plumb, that your reticle is straight, and that your optic is tracking properly. Thanks for watching! -Gary

[@Quality_Guru]

Great intel - thanks for sharing. I specifically like that you turn the screws 1/8 at a time and constantly check the gap as you make the adjustments.

[@Bubba_Fett_]

Very solid instructions! Thank you so much!!!!

[@bmblb69]

Great informative clear video!

[@steve6548]

Great video. As a mechanic who has built engines, and torqued many bolts to spec, I will add that if you remove a fastener that has loctite applied, the loctite needs to be cleaned off the threads and fresh loctite applied before retorqueing. This is necessary for accurate torqueing of the fastener. This would be difficult to do in the field. I know I would probably lose the fastener, being a bit of a butter fingers. I an glad you instructed your viewers to use the proper stuff for torqueing scope fasteners. Thank You.

[@truthvfiction]

I’ve used the bubble method as well effectively. My dad was a WWII sharpshooter and he taught me the same way of leveling that you use. Recently I found a device called “Fix it Sticks Scope Jack”. It works without a rifle vise, no bubble centering and it works easily as well as bubble leveling and just as accurate. It takes about 3 minutes. Love it more than words can say.

[@scott2228]

I use something similar. The Arisaka scope level. It uses similar principals. And all you need is…. Almost nothing else. But a bench vise comes in handy.

[@grantgladish616]

Well done! Much appreciated.

[@josephchargualaf90]

Enjoyed the thoroughness...ty much

[@theindooroutdoorsman]

I'm watching this, like I'm capable of taking advantage of a properly mounted scope.

[@BimmerDudeXi]

This past weekend I mounted my strike Eagle 5-25 onto my bergara b14r. I used the wheeler leveling system you have there. I noticed the little reference bubble level was not equal. Meaning If i sit the level with the logo facing forward the bubble is in one position then turn the level 180 degrees with the logo facing rearward the bubble has moved with in the level to a different position. I checked it against a few different carpenters levels I have in my workshop and it showed it was off. I adjust the level myself til it was good. The wheeler is a great product but this is a heads up for those who own it and be sure the little reference bubble level is still good.

[@paramounttactical]

You are absolutely right and I should probably have mentioned that. You can however adjust the level with the two different screws on the level. I adjusted mine based on a machinist level that I have. Even after trying to calibrate it so it's the same on both sides, I know that for it to be accurate I need the side that says "wheeler" facing a certain direction. Good observation and great comment. Hopefully you subscribed and I look forward to seeing you in the comments often! -Gary

[@willieeverett8978]

As always another great video Gary.

[@butchcassidy622]

Thank you for your service and your knowledge

[@maximus208]

As a veteran and former Correctional Officer on a Super Max Prison SRT squad for 10 years; I can definitely say this is the most complete and comprehensive scope mounting tutorial I've ever seen. Very informative and accurate. You absolutely do it the correct way. I have the exact same set up as well as the Wheeler Digital F.A.T Wrench. You have gained another follwer.

[@paramounttactical]

Well first, thank you for your service and thanks for following. I recently released an update to this video with even more info. Check that out at link below and welcome to the Paramount Family! Complete Guide To Precision Scope Mounting - Part 1 of 2 kzbin.info/www/bejne/hXibdJaeh76fetk

[@apd1004]

I was a tanker for 32 years so I don't have much experience with Little Guns, but your credentials and professional instruction are enough for me. This video helped me set up my rifles the right way and also got me to spend a few hundred bucks to enhance my tool kit. Thank you!

[@paramounttactical]

Thanks for your service! Thanks for watching and your trust. -Gary

[@kennethromero5765]

Awesome job

[@JSmith-nn5mi]

Thanks for your service.

[@michaelgiglio5652]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I'm new to rifles and scopes, and this really helped me understand everything I need to do. Subscribed!

[@paramounttactical]

Man I’m glad you’re getting value out of it. Feel free to hit me with questions anytime either on here or our email is on our website. Thanks, Gary

[@markthegunplumber8376]

Many times the turrets are not parallel with the reticle lines I use a machinists parallel rubber banded to the bottom of the scope turret block this allows you to set your level on the parallel. i have seen numerous scopes that look canted but the reticle is dead nuts on. go figure. thanks for the vid. i have been a Smith for 27 years now and have progressed to this method since starting to shoot F-Class about 10 years ago. You'd be surprised (maybe not) how many canted scopes we see daily.

[@paramounttactical]

If the turrets aren’t plumb to the reticle the answer isn’t to just make the reticle plumb, the scope should be sent back to manufacturer. That guarantees you’re dialing elevation into windage and vice versa. I address that myth or misunderstanding here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3WlnoZrhZVroJI

[@eriksjoeberg2197]

Thank you very much for this instruction!

[@stevesetka6521]

Great video, thanks for posting

[@TerminalM193]

Omg this was PERFECT! I'm still rather new to firearms but it's becoming an overwhelming addiction, "in a good way". I finally was able to get my HQL here in Western Maryland so I could finally and legally own a pistol for home defense. Before owning my new Walther PDP I was using a Ruger AR 556 16" 1-8 twist rifle with a compact holosun red dot for home defense. Now that I have the pistol I wanted to turn my AR into a medium - long range firearm and picked up a primary arms 1x-8x LPVO. I've never put a scope on a rifle before and was nervous as hell and apprehensive to start because the last thing I want to do is screw anything up or mount it in a way that may conflict with effectively using the scope in conjunction with the rifle. This video was absolutely perfect! Thank you so much! I'm now in the process of trying to save up for one of your in person classes and can't wait to actually take part of your legendary training!

[@paramounttactical]

That’s awesome man, I’m glad this video helped you! If you run into any questions don’t hesitate to reach out! -Gary

[@rickardolsson2444]

Question: As it seems the anti-cant device on the picatinny rail is plumb right away, why not mount that first, ensuring a plumb rail/barrel? Seems that could save the first few level on rail - barrel level steps (ie basically replacing the barrel level with the anti-cant device's level).

[@sstrongman1667]

That’s basically the same system that Wheelers level level level tool

[@Patriot41776]

Excellent video! Thanks killa

[@davidanderson3721]

Excellent instructional video!

[@whliving]

Gary, the only “problem” with the Wheeler levels is their lack of exactness. I have the same vice and levels that you used. The specific problem with the wheeler levels that I have is that the bubble is too small and there is no line in the very middle that would visually enable one to have greater confidence that the bubble is actually in the center. Or, if the bubble was bigger so that it would touch the two lines on the left and right of center then you would have greater confidence of the scope and rail being level with each other. With all that said, your video was excellent! On guns that will be used for long distance I still use a plumb bob AFTER I have mounted the scope to verify that it is level. I do this because I don’t trust the levels (or at least my aging eyes) to know (or trust) both levels are actually perfectly aligned. Further, it’s an issue of stacked tolerances. It you level the rail, and then establish another new level on the barrel with the first level, and then establish the scopes level with another level…. Well, you can understand, I hope, that stacked tolerances can come into play. I only mount a couple scopes a year and I am sure that I would have greater confidence with your experience in mounting so many scopes. So, with all my blather I hope you can see why I verify everything with a plum bob (gravity doesn’t lie, but my eyes might with the level). I mount my plumb bob in the depth of my garage (no wind) and then set my bench up at the end of my driveway, chuck the gun in my Tipton vice, and see if it tracks while adjusting the elevation. But, as I said, excellent video. I have it saved as a video to share with others on how to mount a scope. Also, it appreciate you mentioning VC-3. I have started using that in the past year after finding out about it from C&H precision while using their plates to mount my dots on my handguns. I have subscribed and shared this video and look forward to seeing more of your videos. Thanks.

[@paramounttactical]

I agree with everything you said. I think verifying with a plumb bob is great. I also certify by shooting a tall target and with the line of the tall target that is a straight line I either align using a plumb bob or a level held vertical that I verify with a plumb bob. I don’t have an issue with the precision of the Wheeler level but more than one has arrived way off. Luckily they are adjustable. I also use multiple levels because I have OCD. I think we’re saying the same thing as far as stacking tolerances or redundant verification. Thanks for watching and subscribing! I look forward to reading more of your thoughtful comments in the future! -Gary

[@whliving]

@@paramounttactical - Those “multiple levels” that you mention are different brands? I was online searching and checking KZbin (and found your video) for a better level to use because I have a scope I’m about to mount but was dissatisfied with the precision of the Wheeler (my OCD). Do you have any recommendations? The only other way I know of that seems to work 100% is with a Tough Tactical Tools Scope Leveler Combo for Rifle Scope. I found them several years ago when doing a similar search. They are a set of wedges that fit between the rail and the flat base of the scope and mechanically make the rail parallel to each other. Further, if you maintain pressure on them it mitigates the movement of the scope while tightening the rings. The only problem with them is that you must have enough clearance between the rail and the flat base under the turrets (not much but enough). For my current build I’m using low rings (0.850) with a scope with a 30mm tube which does not have enough space to use them. They almost will fit, but don’t. So, I’m stuck with the levels. If you have found other levels that have better quality at a reasonable price for someone who occasionally mounts I would love your suggestions. Thanks.

[@paramounttactical]

@@whliving I like the stabila pocket levels. If you get one that reads the same when you turn it 180 degrees it’s going to be more than accurate enough. I have a few other levels that I check smaller levels with. I have a $200+ machinist level and 2 others guaranteed within like .0001 degree or something ridiculous. I did have 2 stabila levels I sent back because they didn’t read the same when turned 180 degrees.

[@wowguy3562]

I bought a digital level it is very accurate, it has helped me mount many scopes, I use it to also first basically get the rifle barrel level front to back then the scope, works like a charm

[@williamforrest5405]

Congrats, you're the first person that I've seen talk about leveling the rifle muzzle to stock. Yes it is important, you cannot get an accurate cross level unless the rifle is level muzzle to stock. The slightest incline will give false readings across the pic rail unless you're lucky enough to hit it perfect. It takes out potential error. Nice video.

[@bobbysmith1200]

What if you have a 20 moa rail. Then the rail and scope are no longer lever from muzzel to stcok?

[@williamforrest5405]

@@bobbysmith1200 You would level the rail along the axis. That's your mounting surface.

[@privatepilot42]

Thanks for the video!

[@terencebigt3825]

Excellent video. Just ordered a new scope and will follow your instructions!

[@owned323]

Just to mention, the flashlight/plumb bob method is still a very viable way to check your work, especially when using cheaper scopes. Sometimes the reticle and scope body are not perfectly in line and can need adjustment to level the reticle properly. Also the tops of scopes are rarely completely level and can also be checked using the flashlight/plumb bob method, but I wouldn't use that method to begin with but rather as a check and balance.

[@paramounttactical]

You’re absolutely right. They both work. It’s just been my experience that they both introduce too many variables. Both methods are difficult to do correctly and yield wildly inconsistent results. How do you get your gun locked down and confirm level while tracking a plumb bob at a decent distance and then attach rings and tighten screws while ensuring your gun maintained level? (That’s rhetorical) The flashlight method presents similar questions. Then… how do you confirm? Have you actually done a tracking test or tall target test? Your reticle can be decently off but you could still engage targets at distance and simply mistaken a missed shot due to reticle cant for a wind call. You can get the bullet to the target eventually but it just takes more dialing or hold offs than it should. My entire point is that based on actual testing, the method I outline reduces variance. I disagree with you on scope caps though. Basic modern machining, even CNC used by cheap scope manufacturers can easily achieve flat surfaces with a .001 tolerance. I’m sure there are exceptions. I love taking gun nerd stuff and your points are 100% valid. I always enjoy any good faith discussion or debate! I appreciate you watching and hope to see you in the comments often! Sincerely, Gary

[@jasonslamen6672]

@@paramounttactical thanks for explaining your reasoning, Gary. I have started using a construction laser level that shoots an X and Y axis in place of the plumb bob. I level the rifle using the same gun vise and levels you use, then I shoot the laser (on a tripod) at a wall. I adjust the tripod height and position to match the scope reticle closely and then I fine tune the reticle position and tighten the screws. It has worked great so far. I already had the laser from my job. They can be had for well under $100 at big box stores. Thanks for the great content, Jason.

[@vwmountainman9701]

Very informative - excellent job. I must point out tho - not everyone can afford the high dollar ( different for everyone ) base mounts & rings. I have done a few scopes. I had a machinist friend make me 2 one inch diameter billet alum. shafts about 4 inches long. Each one is machined down to a point on one end. I place those in each ring. Which tells me how far off the rings or base is out of alignment. Then one would need to lap them in. BUT - one must also use care & have some COMMON sense when doing this. Because one can mess things up in hurry if they are mindful of details. Other than that - excellent detail & explanation !!!!

[@td4836]

Perfect, thank you. Great video

[@squallwilde7713]

Good drills, awesome vid mate 🤙

[@michaelcolorado6107]

Yes, I liked it before I watched it. It was a judgment call. 😏😉

[@paramounttactical]

Appreciate l it brother!! 👊🇺🇸-Gary

[@michaelcolorado6107]

@@paramounttactical Are You welcome. 👊. See what I did there? 🤣🤣🤣

[@Airplane_Stuff]

Thank you Gary for your service!

[@keithallen690]

Thank you for your service.

[@MoSportsUSA]

Great video and timely since my Arken PRS and one-piece mount/rings have recently arrived. I'm now following Paramount Tactical and will be looking for more of your videos and descriptions.

[@MrChessieohio]

Thank you! That’s a great video!👍

[@nexus6999]

Gary, thank you for your time with this video, it is very informative.

[@kevinfinch126]

Great content. Thank you

[@smoochmcguire5291]

Great video thanks again

[@txranger58]

Outstanding. I essentially do it this way but you have some good tips. Thanks for taking the time to share this.

[@MuleyFreak]

Great video!

[@TheRINOShow]

Thanks, very professional presentation.

[@troyhuddle1196]

Most informative video I have found to properly mount a rifle scope. Thanks for the information and a HUGE THANKS for your Service!

[@randyw.1252]

Very thorough presentation. Loved it!

[@SoCalCigars]

Outstanding video. Very much appreciated.

[@jimmycummings8164]

Thanks for posting

[@user-mp8vk8fh5u]

I’m glad I found this channel it very helpful

[@ChaskeJohnson]

Great video, thanks

[@jld8204]

Great segment, after seeing it done in one of the PTS long range courses, it's good to get a refresher again. I will need to upgrade to the Tipton Ultra, maybe for my birthday. See you in the spring.

[@robertbarham-ki6zq]

Great information to get off to a good start when mounting a scope.

[@coldsteelsteel8689]

Very informative. Thanks

[@katrinagwen]

Meticulous work, thank you.

[@doogioats8678]

Very simple and straight to the point. Thanks

[@themando900]

very informative and professional. Thank you

[@davidmcadams3929]

great video and information..thank you

[@terrycampbell9719]

Truly a useful video Thank you

[@GeraldM-of2fv]

Best instuctional video on scope mounting ever. Awesome step by step instructions and product recommendations.

[@w.t.pstandforyourlife.5639]

Nice brother love it thank you

[@Tonyblaine73]

great job

[@msantos210]

Great video, thanks bro

[@lourodriguez962]

thanks for the content.

[@DavidMoyers]

Thanks! I've been struggling with this more than I should have.

[@gtrules46]

18 bravo... Much respect brother!!!

[@andreasmyles5342]

This was a very good class thank you for showing us how to mount a scoop 👍🇺🇸😇

[@johnfernandez3166]

I appreciate all the info. A lot of good knowledge. No one has Ever broke it down like you did thanks for your time.

[@rfpowell2606]

Great information, thank you

[@HADI1234567890123456]

Awesome stuff

[@mrgreengoldthumb]

great video ty