Introduction
Picture this: You’ve spent hours at the range, meticulously zeroing your rifle, only to have your shots scatter when the pressure is on. The target? A trophy buck you’ve been dreaming about for months. Or worse, your scope loses zero completely, rendering your firearm useless. The culprit? Often, it’s the seemingly humble scope rings. They are the unsung heroes, the vital link between your Remington 700 rifle and the scope that allows you to reach out and touch your target.
The Remington 700, a legend in the world of bolt-action rifles, is celebrated for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility. From hunting big game to precision target shooting, this rifle has proven itself a mainstay in the hands of serious shooters for generations. But even the finest rifle is only as good as its weakest link, and that link often comes down to how you mount your optic. The quality and suitability of your Remington 700 scope rings are paramount to achieving consistent accuracy and optimal performance. This article provides a comprehensive guide, designed to help you navigate the sometimes-confusing world of scope rings and make informed decisions for your specific needs. We’ll explore the critical factors that contribute to ring selection, from understanding the fundamentals to recommending trusted brands and providing valuable mounting tips.
Understanding the Essentials: The Significance of Scope Rings
What exactly are scope rings? Simply put, they are the mechanical devices that securely attach your riflescope to your Remington 700 rifle. They are the bridges that connect your aiming device to the platform, ensuring that it stays in place and aligns correctly with the bore of your firearm. Sounds simple, right? The truth is, the design, material, and installation of these rings are critical for achieving the best possible results.
The importance of scope rings is primarily tied to accuracy. A poorly chosen or poorly installed set of rings can ruin even the most expensive and high-quality scope. The rings must securely grip the scope tube without damaging it, maintaining a consistent point of impact with every shot. When your Remington 700 scope rings are not properly aligned or are of subpar quality, they can introduce stress to the scope tube, leading to shifting in your point of impact. This inconsistency can cause you to miss your target, even when you’ve done everything else correctly.
Consider the consequences of using the wrong rings. You might experience inconsistent groups, where shots land all over the target. You might find your scope slowly loosening, or the zero shifting over time, meaning you’ll constantly need to re-adjust your scope. In extreme cases, poor-quality rings can even damage your scope, rendering it useless. Investing in quality rings is not just a convenience; it is a necessity for anyone serious about maximizing the potential of their Remington 700.
Important Considerations When Choosing Remington 700 Scope Rings
The selection of the right scope rings can be daunting, but by understanding the key factors involved, you can make an informed decision that significantly impacts your shooting success.
Matching the Correct Diameter
One of the first and most crucial considerations is the diameter of the scope tube. Scopes come in several tube diameters, with the most common being one-inch and thirty-millimeter tubes. You *must* choose rings that match your scope’s tube diameter. The wrong diameter will simply not fit, and attempting to force them will either damage your scope or render the rings unable to secure the scope properly.
Locating the tube diameter is usually straightforward. It’s often printed directly on the scope itself, usually on the tube near the objective lens or the eyepiece. You might also find this information in the scope’s product specifications, either in a printed manual or on the manufacturer’s website. If you can’t find it, you can always measure the tube diameter yourself using calipers, but be sure to measure the *outside* diameter of the tube.
Determining the Right Height
The height of your scope rings determines how far the scope sits above the rifle’s receiver. This is critical for two main reasons: eye relief and cheek weld. Proper eye relief ensures that you can comfortably see the full scope picture without straining your eyes. Proper cheek weld allows you to consistently position your eye behind the scope, which in turn leads to greater consistency in your shots.
Several factors affect the ring height you need. The primary factor is the objective lens size of your scope. A larger objective lens typically requires taller rings to clear the barrel of your rifle. You’ll need enough clearance for the objective lens to not touch the barrel during recoil or while the rifle is being handled. Another factor is the design of your rifle’s stock. Some stocks are designed to promote a high cheek weld, which would require higher scope rings, whereas others may be better suited for lower rings.
To get a good idea of the ring height you need, measure from the top of your receiver (where the base mounts) to the bottom of the scope’s objective lens. Add a bit of extra clearance—usually an eighth to a quarter of an inch—to allow for any potential flex or movement. You can also consult with a gunsmith or experienced shooter for advice, as their recommendations are often invaluable.
Understanding the Material Options
Scope rings are manufactured from several different materials, and the choice of material influences both performance and durability.
Steel rings are renowned for their exceptional strength and durability. They can withstand significant recoil and are less prone to damage. The main downside to steel rings is their weight. They tend to be heavier than other options, which can affect the overall balance of your rifle. Steel is an excellent choice for rifles that experience heavy recoil or for shooters who prioritize durability above all else.
Aluminum rings provide a good balance of strength and weight. They are typically much lighter than steel rings, which can be beneficial for rifles intended for hunting or carrying for extended periods. However, aluminum is generally not as durable as steel. They might be more susceptible to damage from impacts or heavy recoil over time. Aluminum rings are a solid choice for most Remington 700 applications, as they offer a good performance-to-weight ratio.
Although less common, titanium rings represent the high end of the scope ring spectrum. They are incredibly strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant. Titanium rings are premium options for shooters who demand the absolute best in terms of performance and reliability.
Base Compatibility: The Right Fit
The Remington 700 utilizes different types of mounting bases. It is essential that the scope rings you choose are compatible with the base already installed on your rifle. The most common types are Weaver and Picatinny.
Weaver bases are generally more basic in design, featuring slots cut across the top. Rings designed for Weaver bases typically have a crossbolt that clamps into these slots.
Picatinny bases are similar to Weaver bases but have a more consistent and standardized design, and more precise dimensions. Picatinny bases have wider slots and are more robust. Rings designed for Picatinny bases will lock securely into the base, usually using a crossbolt system, much like Weaver rings.
Make sure the rings you choose have the appropriate clamping mechanism to match the type of base installed on your Remington 700. Improper matching will cause the rings to shift under recoil, ruining your shot.
Features and Design Considerations
Beyond the core considerations of diameter, height, and material, several features and design elements can enhance your shooting experience.
The type of ring refers to the overall design, like a two-piece ring system or a one-piece ring. Two-piece ring systems are the most popular, offering flexibility in positioning the scope. One-piece ring systems, which are mounted directly to the rifle’s base, are often preferred for their increased rigidity and alignment.
The mounting system, how the rings attach to the base, is a critical aspect to review. Rings typically use crossbolts or screws. The crossbolt system locks firmly to the base, ensuring stability. When using screws, make sure you torque the screws to the proper specification, as this is a key part of installing the rings correctly.
Built-in levels are an added feature that can help ensure your scope is perfectly level with the rifle. A level scope is essential for consistent accuracy at all distances, as any cant can shift your point of impact. While helpful, they are not an absolute necessity, as you can use external levels during installation.
Integrated bases are combined rings and a base in one single piece. This design offers extra rigidity and helps improve the alignment. The drawback is that these rings are not compatible with traditional bases, so this requires planning and consideration if you don’t already have an integrated base.
Recommended Brands and Products
Choosing from the many available options can be overwhelming, but here are some well-respected brands in the realm of Remington 700 scope rings, known for their quality and reliability:
- Leupold: A trusted name, Leupold offers a wide range of rings, from economical options to high-end models. Leupold rings are known for their reliability, quality, and excellent value.
- Burris: Burris offers a variety of rings to suit different needs and budgets. Their rings are known for their durability and secure mounting.
- Nightforce: Nightforce is a premium brand that makes some of the strongest and most accurate scope rings available. These rings are often the preferred choice for serious long-range shooters.
- Talley: Talley offers lightweight and durable rings, often preferred for their sleek profile and ease of installation.
- Warne: Warne is known for offering a wide range of rings that are built to handle the recoil of powerful rifles.
Installation and Mounting Tips
The proper installation of your scope rings is just as important as choosing the right rings. The following steps will help guide you through the process, but it is always recommended to consult the ring manufacturer’s instructions or seek assistance from a professional gunsmith if you’re not comfortable with the process.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools: a torque wrench (essential for proper screw tension), a level (to ensure your scope is mounted straight), and a good set of screwdrivers that fit your ring’s screws precisely.
First, install the base, if it’s not already installed. Ensure that the base is correctly installed on the rifle, then secure the base to the receiver of your Remington 700, using the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Next, install the bottom halves of the rings onto the base. Then, place your scope into the rings. At this point, you will likely need to decide on the fore-aft placement of your scope. Ensure you have enough eye relief, as proper eye relief is critical. Place your scope into the position that feels the most comfortable while allowing you to see the entire image through the scope. Finally, place the top halves of the rings onto the scope and secure them to the bottom halves.
Torque the screws to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications using a torque wrench. This ensures that the rings are securely gripping the scope without over-tightening. Over-tightening can damage the scope, and under-tightening can result in the scope shifting under recoil.
Consider lapping your scope rings. Lapping involves using a special lapping bar and abrasive compound to improve the fit between the rings and the scope tube. This can help ensure maximum contact and reduce stress on the scope.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Once your scope rings are mounted, regular maintenance will help keep them in optimal condition. Periodically check the screws for any signs of loosening, and tighten them to the recommended torque as needed. Also, check the scope’s position for any signs of movement. Recoil can cause minor shifts over time.
If you notice your scope isn’t holding zero or is experiencing other issues, a few common troubleshooting steps may help. Check the screws for proper torque. Make sure that the rings are properly aligned with each other. Check your scope for any damage. If problems persist, consider consulting a gunsmith.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Remington 700 scope rings is an important part of maximizing the performance of your rifle and, ultimately, achieving your shooting goals. By understanding the key factors—ring diameter, height, material, base compatibility, and features—and by considering the recommendations provided, you can make an informed decision that enhances your accuracy, reliability, and overall shooting experience. Remember that investing in quality rings is not just a matter of convenience; it’s an investment in your success.
Take the time to research, compare options, and choose the scope rings that best fit your specific needs and shooting style. Proper installation and ongoing maintenance are just as important as choosing the right rings themselves. With careful planning and diligent execution, you’ll be well-equipped to get the most out of your Remington 700.
