Finding the right scope mount for your lever-action rifle is crucial for achieving accurate and consistent shots. The unique design of lever-action rifles, often featuring a loading gate and receiver that may interfere with traditional scope mounting solutions, necessitates careful consideration. This guide dives deep into the world of lever action scope mounts, exploring different types, installation techniques, and factors to consider for optimal performance.
Understanding the Challenges of Mounting Scopes on Lever Actions
Unlike bolt-action or semi-automatic rifles, lever actions present specific challenges when it comes to scope mounting. The primary obstacle is the lever itself, which requires sufficient clearance to operate smoothly without interfering with the scope or rings. The location of the loading gate also plays a significant role, often limiting the available space for mounting hardware. Additionally, the receiver's design and dimensions influence the type of mount that will work best.
Types of Lever Action Scope Mounts
Several types of mounts are specifically designed to overcome these challenges:
1. Side-Mount Scopes:
- Functionality: Side mounts attach the scope to the side of the receiver, usually on the left side for right-handed shooters. This design avoids interference with the lever's operation.
- Advantages: Excellent clearance, allows for easy lever manipulation.
- Disadvantages: Can affect shooting position and cheek weld; may present a less-than-ideal sight picture, especially for extended shooting sessions.
2. Receiver Mounts:
- Functionality: These mounts attach directly to the receiver of the rifle, often utilizing drilled and tapped holes.
- Advantages: Generally provide a lower and more stable mounting position, often resulting in a better sight picture compared to side mounts.
- Disadvantages: Requires modifications to the rifle (drilling and tapping) in many cases; incorrect installation can damage the rifle; finding a mount that clears the lever can be challenging.
3. Scope Bases and Rings:
- Functionality: These act as an intermediary between the receiver and the scope itself. Scope bases attach to the receiver, and rings then secure the scope to the base.
- Advantages: Offers flexibility in scope placement and height; a variety of configurations are available to match different rifles and scopes.
- Disadvantages: Careful selection is crucial to ensure proper clearance and avoid interference with the lever. Incorrect installation can lead to alignment issues.
4. One-Piece Mounts:
- Functionality: These integrate the base and rings into a single unit, simplifying installation and ensuring alignment.
- Advantages: Streamlined installation, generally more robust than separate bases and rings.
- Disadvantages: Less flexibility in customization compared to separate bases and rings.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lever Action Scope Mount
Several critical factors influence your choice of lever action scope mount:
- Rifle Model: Different lever-action rifles have varying receiver dimensions and loading gate positions. Ensure the mount is compatible with your specific rifle model.
- Scope Size and Weight: Heavier scopes require more robust mounts to withstand recoil and prevent shifting.
- Eye Relief: Choose a mount that provides sufficient eye relief for comfortable and safe shooting.
- Mounting Height: Consider the height of the rings and base to achieve a proper cheek weld and sight picture.
- Durability and Material: Opt for mounts constructed from high-quality materials, such as steel or aluminum, for long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
Installation and Adjustment
Proper installation is paramount to ensure the accuracy and safety of your setup. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific mount. Always prioritize safety and double-check your work before firing the rifle. Properly aligning the scope is also essential, which may require use of a bore sighter or initial range time to zero the weapon.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lever action scope mount is crucial for transforming your lever-action rifle into an accurate and reliable shooting platform. By understanding the various mount types and carefully considering the factors outlined above, you can select a setup that ensures safe, enjoyable, and accurate shooting for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow manufacturer instructions during installation.
