Smyth Busters: Is It Important To Level Your Scope?

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  • Опубліковано 19 гру 2022
  • ‪@CalebSavant‬ recently discovered a spate of videos on the Interwebs that claim it doesn't matter if your scope is crooked when you mount it on your rifle. Do people actually believe this? After losing a few nights' sleep over this trend, Caleb has enlisted his fellow Smyth Buster Steve to tackle the matter head on. Normally, a scope is mounted with its center axis aligned with the rifle's the bore and the crosshairs level relative to the gun itself. Advocates of the "Crooked is OK" school of thought say you should shoulder your rifle and then adjust the crosshairs to make them level based on how you hold the gun.
    When you aim, you will have to tilt the rifle to get the crosshairs level with the horizon. As a result, the rifle will be canted, and due to "mechanical offset," the scope will not be aligned directly over the bore. The point-of-aim and the bore centerline are not parallel. They actually cross each other at some point and then diverge. The scope will be accurate at that point where those invisible lines intersect. But at other ranges, it is not. You can use the scope's windage and elevation adjustments to compensate for some of this, but no scope has adjustment knobs for DIAGONAL adjustment!
    Example: Your rifle has a properly aligned scope zeroed at 100 yards. If you want to hit a target 300 yards away, you just have to aim higher. With the Crooked Method, you have to aim higher AND off to the left or the right, depending on which way you're canting the gun, to compensate for an imaginary "windage."
    The effects of the Crooked Method get worse the farther away the target is. The longer the range, the more the bore and line-of-sight diverge, and your target groups will open way up. If you're shooting an AR-15, it's even worse. The higher mechanical offset of the typical AR-15 scope mount means a crooked scope will be even more dramatically inaccurate at long range! If you're shooting rapid fire at close targets, a canted scope probably won't make a noticeable difference in your rifle's accuracy.
    So this myth is thoroughly BUSTED. Don't let the way you hold your rifle determine how you mount your optic. Mount the optic correctly, and teach yourself how to hold the rifle correctly! There's a reason why folks who shoot at small targets at long-ranges have their scopes perfectly leveled out, often with the aid of a bubble level.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 463

  • @CalebSavant
    @CalebSavant Рік тому +97

    On a side note, when shooting with an offset red dot or offset irons, its important to keep the bore of the rifle as close to vertically under the optic as possible when tilting or you will notice that your accuracy will suffer for the same reason.

    • @joshuabennett7334
      @joshuabennett7334 Рік тому +1

      Offset sights are just stupid anyway

    • @JacobWinkle
      @JacobWinkle Рік тому +4

      @@joshuabennett7334 It's nice to have offset Iron sights when you have a scope on. Some scopes and iron sights sit too high or too low and won't line up when you look through the iron sights when the scope is in the way. Depends on the person and what they are used to and comfortable with. I guess you don't like offset sights and that's fine. That's your preference but it's not stupid, it's just a preference you prefer is all. I like offset Iron sights but that's a backup in case my scope goes down, breaks, fogs up, rain on the scope lenses kinda thing. That's why I keep offset Iron sights as a backup instead of a red dot. To me, red dot being offset sits too far out away from the firearm and iron sights, depending on the one you get. You can get iron sights that are offset and they fold down and away when not in use. Making it less of a chance to snag it anything or just be in the way when not needed.

    • @joshuabennett7334
      @joshuabennett7334 Рік тому

      @@JacobWinkle the philosophy of your optic going down needing backup sights offsets in my opinion is not valid. If your optic goes down get it off and flip up regular back ups. Backups in normal civilian situations is pointless. We went to the desert without iron backup sights worked our rifles through about the worst condition and never even thought man I wish I could run irons. If you have a quality optic that works for your situation then if it goes down you have done something devastating to your gun and rolling to a side arm to get you out of the situation is probably your best bet. I have backup irons the flip up style on my AR with a dot because I don’t trust that my battery won’t be dead but if I was to run them on a LPVO set up gun I would just run a QD and flip up sights underneath

    • @JacobWinkle
      @JacobWinkle Рік тому +7

      @@joshuabennett7334 Not everyone sets up there firearm like you. If they did, manufacturers would sell one firearm, with one set of red dot, with one set of iron sights etc. If offset sights were the worst thing ever, manufacturers wouldn't be selling them and people wouldn't be buying them. I learned that when people hate something, they either don't know how to use them right or they aren't set up for that kinda shooting. If someone can shoot great with offset sights (45 degree angle sights and you can't. Of course you're going to hate them.

    • @dvig3261
      @dvig3261 Рік тому +1

      @@joshuabennett7334 it seems to me that the acceptable inaccuracy induced by offsetting optics would render them unnecessary anyway...

  • @dameander
    @dameander Рік тому +120

    "No turret caps for diagonal adjustment" 🤣🤣🤣

    • @jammbbs1688
      @jammbbs1688 Рік тому +3

      Some person out there is now 3d printing a cog and cam system to make a device that when you screw right the cross hair moves up and to the right and if you turn it left its down and to the left

    • @willo7734
      @willo7734 Рік тому +10

      I just turn both at the same time like an etch-a-sketch

    • @kx8960
      @kx8960 Рік тому +2

      I've got diagonal astigmatism, so I cant the scope 45deg and it all re-zero's perfectly....🤣

    • @DD-gi6kx
      @DD-gi6kx 9 місяців тому +1

      that is why you mount so your scope is level (vertical reticle plumb) even if you don't hold the gun perfectly up/down....gravity does not know how you held your gun and as long as the up/down adjustment is in line with gravity you are good

    • @derekjohnson8219
      @derekjohnson8219 2 місяці тому

      I almost spit water everywhere when he said that

  • @PS-rr2jt
    @PS-rr2jt Рік тому +108

    I think of it this way, if your scope is canted, your elevation adjustments will contain a little windage and your windage adjustments will contain a little elevation.

    • @C_oprator89
      @C_oprator89 Рік тому

      Is the Arisaka wedge better than a plumb bob? I think so Tim

    • @kx8960
      @kx8960 Рік тому +2

      EXCELLENT way of putting it! Well Played Sir, Well PLAYED!

  • @shrimuyopa8117
    @shrimuyopa8117 Рік тому +58

    Now the discussion needs to be about, "Is my $10 Home Depot level good enough to level my scope"?

    • @19Clutch69
      @19Clutch69 Рік тому

      🤪 ya open the hole

    • @crazydave1145
      @crazydave1145 Рік тому +12

      What about my plastic harbor freight level🤣

    • @shawncarter569
      @shawncarter569 Рік тому +9

      maybe, maybe not, but wheeler makes a set that is pretty cheap and is designed just for this purpose.

    • @crazydave1145
      @crazydave1145 Рік тому +9

      @@shawncarter569 I have the Wheeler kit & being a carpenter, I'd never trust plastic

    • @robertdoyle4650
      @robertdoyle4650 Рік тому +8

      Most people think just because the bubble is between the lines “it’s good” there is a reason a Stabila level costs a lot more than an Empire level

  • @hairydogstail
    @hairydogstail Рік тому +65

    I have a shooting buddy I shoot long range with and he still believes his crooked scope is still over the bore. I have drawn pictures even to explain why he is wrong, yet he is quite stubborn about it. The humerus part is he has never beaten me in any long range shooting match and keeps changing rifles, calibers, etc. I just have to shake my head and laugh..

  • @shinaiandbogu
    @shinaiandbogu Рік тому +26

    I've always mounted my scopes perfectly horizontally to rifles clamped perfectly horizontally because my dad and uncle taught me to do it 45 years ago. But now I know exactly why. Thanks to you guys!

  • @skepticalobserver2135
    @skepticalobserver2135 Рік тому +18

    Thank you very much, guys. As someone who is an avid lifetime math and geometry student, my eyes roll when is see crooked scopes and hear people say "it's OK'.

  • @strangleholdoutdoors
    @strangleholdoutdoors Рік тому +51

    I'm a part-time gunsmith, and when I do scope jobs, even for friends, they will sometimes be displeased because they think I or my boss did it wrong. 10 out of 10 times, they're not holding the rifle level. They don't like hearing that, but it's true, and they probably just don't know because they've never looked down a level scope before.

    • @flyingfalcon8999
      @flyingfalcon8999 Рік тому +8

      Almost no one holds a rifle level.

    • @leojensen9270
      @leojensen9270 Рік тому +6

      @Flying Falcon almost noone is actually good at firing rifles long range

    • @Kyle-sr6jm
      @Kyle-sr6jm Рік тому

      "Almost no one holds a rifle level"
      Yep
      And most people shoot like shit

    • @kassilewis5511
      @kassilewis5511 Рік тому +2

      Thats precisely why I recommend a scope mounted level(anti cant device). I do a mock up of the scope in the rings on the rifle, find the best location to accommodate the level and be seen while behind the rifle, make light pencil marks of my ring location and level location, remove from the rifle, set the scope up in a fixture and align the vertical stadia to a plumb bob at 75 yards on the lowest power I can see the 1/8" string clearly, lock down the scope in the fixture, and adjust the level to show dead nuts while the reticle is perfectly plumb with gravity. Take the scope out of the fixture, level the rifle with an ACCURATE level in a barrel vise(I level the bolt raceways, not the scope bases), align and lap rings(if needed) and mount as normal using the newly mounted scope level as reference. This method will take out the guesswork and provides solid proof that most people don't hold rifles level but hold them to what they perceive as level....while tilting there head.

  • @NoNo_IStay
    @NoNo_IStay Рік тому +15

    Biggest pet peeve. Ever.
    So tired of picking up a rifle and the scope is canted. Like.....obviously canted. Buy a level and learn. Hell, even a plumb line hanging from a tree outside will get you there with most ARs. Just the topic alone gives me chills.

  • @tretre1692
    @tretre1692 Рік тому +23

    Now you guys need to do a video on properly leveling it!

    • @DOWNFORLIFE954
      @DOWNFORLIFE954 Рік тому +3

      put gun on rest. level gun. then put scope on rings. level scope to gun. then tighten scope rings checking if still level after the fact

    • @elitetrader5468
      @elitetrader5468 Рік тому

      @@DOWNFORLIFE954 If the scope is leveled perfectly to the mount (i.e. Scalarworks) doesn't that suffice as well?

  • @MiGallagher
    @MiGallagher Рік тому +14

    Lol you two are great, no script needed. Thanks for bringing this topic up gentlemen

  • @dave_1958
    @dave_1958 Рік тому +8

    Now the video on leveling your gun and your scope to the level gun!! Great video 👏

  • @edwardabrams4972
    @edwardabrams4972 Рік тому +7

    I have been hunting and reloading and collecting for about 60 years and each day I always see somebody who’s elevator doesn’t go to the top floor when it comes to guns and scopes as well as reloading! Always looking for a good laugh!

  • @itsapittie
    @itsapittie Рік тому +16

    I didn't even know this was an issue. I thought the need to level the scope to the rifle was so obvious that there wasn't any controversy about it. I guess I give people too much credit.

  • @Nerotique
    @Nerotique Рік тому +8

    I learn things when I watch Smyth busters. Nice presentation, guys.

  • @brorjordas1979
    @brorjordas1979 Рік тому +2

    Oh man! This was worth gold to watch!
    Been so annoyed on some videos about setting up and sighting in scopes.. and now finally a sweet Smythbusters episode to go thru it. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

  • @waruikoneko1635
    @waruikoneko1635 Рік тому +4

    I think I may have watched the same video Caleb was referring to. I remember thinking that seemed 'off'. I'd always been told to level the scope to the gun, not to the shooter. Thanks for setting the record straight, guys! 💯

  • @PD722
    @PD722 Рік тому +8

    I just hold the scope to my eye like a monocle and hip fire my rifle.

  • @motonut007
    @motonut007 Рік тому +2

    Love all the topics and discussions. Thanks guys and
    MERRY CHRISTMAS!

  • @JohnJones-op8uf
    @JohnJones-op8uf Рік тому +2

    Steve and Caleb.. you guys are Great! Really appreciate these videos. Thank You Gentlemen

  • @braxtonoverby7122
    @braxtonoverby7122 Рік тому

    Being new at gunsmithing...professionally that is, I find these videos very informative and think about things that have really never crossed my mind or workbench for that matter. Thank you.

  • @Ja2808R
    @Ja2808R Рік тому

    Thank goodness I only have quality stuff like this pulling in my algorithm. Thanks for taking one for the team Caleb.

  • @yeyito3676
    @yeyito3676 Рік тому +4

    this was an incredibly important video! thank you so much

  • @Wirenutby
    @Wirenutby Рік тому

    Your video is on the level and 100% right on target. Level/plumb all work with gravity close and far. Keep up the great videos.

  • @larrythompson5617
    @larrythompson5617 9 місяців тому +1

    You guys have never been more correct. I had an elderly friend whose crosshair turned several degrees inside his very inexpensive scope and he was adamant that it would make no difference in points of impact at any distance. I tried to explain this to him but being stubborn he refused to accept my explanation. Great job.

  • @jakeoutdoors9600
    @jakeoutdoors9600 Рік тому +5

    I have heard the 'level the scope to how you hold the rifle' approach before. I once saw someone at the club with his scope off set 45 degrees. He said he likes the way it looks when he's looking at a target. Some people just amaze me.

    • @michaelgraziano8038
      @michaelgraziano8038 Рік тому +2

      I saw someone at the range a few weeks ago sighting in a scope set up like that, and just.... why do you hate yourself man?
      I guess it works to an extent: If you get that scope zeroed at 100 yards in zero wind your "X" crosshair will be correct for 100 yards zero wind forever, but at that point IMHO you just have expensive magnified fixed iron sights.

    • @jakeoutdoors9600
      @jakeoutdoors9600 Рік тому

      @@michaelgraziano8038 I'm glad I'm not the only one who has seen someone like that. At least with iron sights you can walk up with them like Elmer Keith did or you can use it like a buckhorn.

  • @criagcundiff2469
    @criagcundiff2469 Рік тому

    Once again, I thank you for the good information.

  • @TTT-du6oj
    @TTT-du6oj 9 місяців тому

    Excellent explanation on this subject,Thank’s guy’s 👍

  • @mace8873
    @mace8873 9 місяців тому

    Thank You! I had the exact suspicion that your crosshair _should_ be in line with your bore, for the very specific reason mentioned here, I even asked a supposedly very knowledgeable guy here on youtube, and got the explanation that "you can just adjust your way out of that", and that might work for him, but as far as I could tell that would only work on _one_ distance. I didn't bother explaining that, and just gave it a rest, but I'm glad it turned out that I was correct all along, and that there's a good reason why it _is_ a good idea to get your scope centered over the barrel. So much for being a world champion, looks like the rest of us aren't totally stupid, and I'll continue to center my scopes!

  • @skitterman5
    @skitterman5 Рік тому

    I've nearly gone crazy trying to get everything lined up perfectly. When it all works together it's a beautiful result.

  • @stevenfranks3629
    @stevenfranks3629 Рік тому

    Great video!!

  • @FreedomAirguns
    @FreedomAirguns Рік тому +1

    I'm extremely paranoid when it comes to leveling/zeroing.
    This is my routine:
    -I place the rifle on supports and I level X, Y.
    -I then proceed to level a RETICLE I place on a wall 10 yards away.
    -I reset windage/elevation on the scope if it was used/zeroed on another platform.
    -I then place the optics on the rifle loosely tightened and I focus on the wall so that the crosshair matches the reticle.
    -I then proceed to level X,Y on the optics/scope, slowly tightening it on the rail.
    -I recheck if the crosshair is perfectly aligned with the reticle on the wall while/after tightening.
    -I then weigh ammo with a balance scale, to remove outliers.
    -I then proceed to zero at the target distance.
    So far, so good. Bullseyes all the time, I just can't miss. Perfect groupings all the time.
    Yet, I thought this was "the standard" and it's hard to believe otherwise.
    I only just recently discovered that, for the vast majority out there, all that matters is spitting lead out of a tube that goes bang...Where that lead is going to land, is none of their business...
    Scary times.
    Suggestions are welcome if you have anything that can improve my routine.

  • @Matt43
    @Matt43 3 місяці тому

    I watched a video recently with the "align it how you hold it" and even as a newcomer to shooting I had a crooked head like a confused dog... thinking "this can't be right".
    Thanks gents!

  • @diamondheat9
    @diamondheat9 Рік тому

    I also started searching about leveling a few weeks ago and the number of people who said just level your scope to the earth is astounding. They are soo confident in what they are saying in videos and in the comments.

  • @murphymmc
    @murphymmc Рік тому +6

    If your scope is aligned with the rifle, as in plumb and level to the rifle and the human eye's tendency to level with the horizon is in effect, as Caleb stated, then your rifle hold should also be plumb and level to the horizon. To those folks who don't have an innate ability to see level/plumb, get some tools cuz you ain't gonna hit that long range varmint consistently or at all, (then you can do a YT video explaining why it's the gun's fault) 😅

  • @sixoffive
    @sixoffive Рік тому

    You guys have the best job, you don’t have to look for subject matter, it comes to you.
    Now I gotta dig up my plumb Bob.

  • @tommykawasaki9676
    @tommykawasaki9676 Рік тому +2

    I used to just level the scope by eye.
    Close enough I said.
    Then I started shooting 200 yard competition. Very poorly I might add.
    Now we make very sure things are level.
    I shoot consistently better than when I started.
    Still no champion, but I’m on my way.

  • @VincitOmniaVeritas7
    @VincitOmniaVeritas7 Рік тому +3

    Real Avid makes a great scope leveling kit that uses a projection of your reticle instead of just bubble levels (the turrets might not be perfectly leveled).
    I also have a SiteLite bore sighter with the option of a collimated laser that can be used in tandem with a special target to level the scope indirectly. It works well, but I find the Real Avid solution easier to set up, specially indoors.
    Just make sure you have a stable gun vise. I use the Tipton Ultimate Gun Vise as it firmly holds the rifle in at least two points.

    • @breckfreeride
      @breckfreeride Рік тому

      I like real avid stuff... The barrel holder for AR-15 is awesome

    • @friendofenkidu3391
      @friendofenkidu3391 Рік тому

      R M: Tipton does not currently make an "Ultimate" gun vise. Did you mean their "Ultra" gun vise?

  • @mikemcmanus116
    @mikemcmanus116 6 місяців тому

    Thanks. Very helpful

  • @shrek2bm
    @shrek2bm 7 місяців тому

    you guys are hilarious love your content❤

  • @grassroots9304
    @grassroots9304 6 місяців тому +1

    I like your videos and they reflect well on Brownell's as a company. This "level or screwed up" debate should be filed under "Duh". Those who don't understand the mechanics of how a scope works with falling/arcing projectiles won't understand any explanation.

  • @bobawful3198
    @bobawful3198 Рік тому +1

    Similar experience with pistols, give me adjustable sights I adjusted it to how I hold it. Then I got a trench sight on my carry & that taught me to adjust myself to the sights. Iron sights on the 22 kinda cement it. Basically I’m better off without the options I guess

  • @qedsteve
    @qedsteve Рік тому

    I've recently enjoyed long(er) range shooting. I spent a LOT of time leveling the scope to the rifle and have put a bubble level on the scope itself to ensure when I set up a shot, the rifle is now level to the horizon. My first range trip took a 6 foot construction level and set a level line at the 100yd target as an additional reference when sighting in. NONE of this makes me a better shooter but mis-aligning the scope can certainly make me a worse shooter for the reasons you described! (and if I were serious about tighter groups, I'd have to kick my coffee habit)
    Reloading 6.5 PRC for long range shooting is a relaxing hobby compared to my .223, 45 ACP and 9mm "plinking."

  • @eddiexoc8430
    @eddiexoc8430 Рік тому

    Great points.

  • @hughgerhart4011
    @hughgerhart4011 Рік тому +1

    I used to mount scopes @Bass Slow Shops, I had a customer who wanted me to mount and boresight his rifle, perfectly for 100 yards but with the crosshairs like 45 degrees off, like an X, he did not want to see the vertical line, I had to ask, How are you going to adjust your scope? He told me that was my job. I laughed, he got mad. You guys should do a video on bore sighting. I can get anyone on paper and really close, Its up to the shooter get on target.

  • @davidanderson5259
    @davidanderson5259 Рік тому +1

    This is a very timely video, as I suspect more than few shooters will be getting a nice scope for Christmas. It makes more sense, IMO, to set up your gun correctly and adapt to it, than to try to set up your gun for incorrect stance and hold. Seems to me that it would just compound the problem. I wonder how many 'inaccurate rifles' are created this way? Subject suggestion: What's better/strengths and weakness of scope rings VS. unitized mounts...?

  • @cervus-venator
    @cervus-venator Рік тому

    I'm glad that I do it correctly. Leveling the gun with a level and leveling the scope with a level and sometimes using a plumb line just as an extra step. Once I get it set I don't have to fool with it for a long time as long as I use loctite on the screws and torque them to correct inch pounds.

  • @bulletproofkarma
    @bulletproofkarma Місяць тому

    Love these guys.

  • @casualobserver3145
    @casualobserver3145 Рік тому

    I leveled & aligned my AR scope as per instructions with all the bubbles on my leveling tools as perfectly centered as possible. But due to the way I hold the rifle it appears ever so slightly canted. I wondered if I should adjust it to the horizon and my eyes but thought, due to reasons Caleb stated, that it wouldn’t be a great idea. I’m glad I didn’t because the rifle performs flawlessly.

  • @project86xero
    @project86xero Рік тому

    If you're using a bdc or going to dial ever hell yes. Especially at distance. If your using a simple duplex I can see why you wouldn't care. But I'd still do it because it'll make dialing easier at the very least. That's not to mention the offset of the bore. Which can get supper annoying past every a hundred yards.
    Personally I level most of my scopes with a normal wood working level and a metal ruler. I put the ruler on the rail and level on the scope cap. Making sure they are parallel and at 90° angles to the barrel. It's a bit rough but it works well for my ARs and stuff.
    However when I bought my precision rifle I had it done by a gun smith at Euro Optic when I bought the gun. I still double checked it later at home but I figure they'd be fare more precise about it because it is important.

  • @patb7723
    @patb7723 Рік тому

    Would love to see a Smyth edition always wondered if say shooting with rifle straight up right and scope leveled and used plumber line to verify straight and the holds for bdc drop and wind are dead on with flight of projectile would using a canted backup optic or sights even if lined up at certain distance would having the rifle canted change the trajectory of the round to through off holds for certain distance and windage, does a barrel fired sideways follow the same arced flight of path a firearm positioned straight up does?

  • @xnavyro
    @xnavyro Рік тому

    Kaleb, could you include some graphics explaining optics & scope alignment? I’m not sure what you are teaching us? Thanks, love your videos!

  • @ralphday4842
    @ralphday4842 Рік тому

    Steve should just leave that empty cup on the table. ( We're onto him ) 🤣🤣

  • @andyd2960
    @andyd2960 Рік тому +1

    I have always used two levels to align my optic. My dumb moment is when I put the scope on sideways and don't catch it until I'm at the range. I always want to put the elevation knob off to the left side of the rifle.

  • @EMTevjorgensen
    @EMTevjorgensen Рік тому

    I use my Triton Gun Vise and Empire level to line up my scope, loktite on the threads and a laser bore sight to line everything up. Loose Tighten and check then a final hard tightening to snug everything down.

  • @chrlsraines
    @chrlsraines Рік тому

    Caleb, ABSOLUTELY! On all points, absolutely… & if you know, you KNOW!

  • @SargeUSMC
    @SargeUSMC Рік тому +2

    A couple of questions…
    Is the effect only “serious” at longer ranges vs “up close and personal”? And, if so, what would you consider to be the distance where it really starts to be noticeable? I presume that if you zero at 100 yards, the effect would start, if only slightly, once you’re beyond that range.
    Does this only apply to optics with a reticle or does it also apply to other types of optics? A lot of the offset secondary optics are red dots or other “non-scope” types that don’t have a typical reticle on them.

    • @99wolfspider
      @99wolfspider Рік тому

      It technically has an effect at all ranges. This effect won't matter much until your zero distance and will get gradually worse beyond your zero. Instead of your bore offset being purely vertical you will be introducing horizontal offset as well, rather than the bullet just rising/falling to line up with your scope it will also be approaching from the left or right. The reason this won't matter much until your zero distance is it can't start any worse than the initial mechanical offset, which in the worst case would be you mounting your scope sideways so the barrel is ~1.5 inches to the side rather than below the scope (so your impact is 1.5 inches off to the side at very close range). The effect that is created is similar to the scope mount on an M1 Garand Sniper with its offset scope. When done on purpose like on an M1 Garand, what you would do to prevent the divergence issue is zero to scope to be horizontally parallel such that your point of impact is offset from your crosshair by the same amount as the scope is offset from the bore, so you would always hit about an inch or so to the right instead of it varying with distance.

  • @crude4u1948
    @crude4u1948 Місяць тому

    `I have actually wondered about the importance of holding your rifle plumb or true vertical and whether it made a difference I decided for myself that it did because in a couple of situatons I tilted my head to the side while sighting in on a target and I missed the target. So, I recently saw a video about properly setting up your optics and the guy had a rifle horse that he mounted the rifle in, made sure the rifle was plumb and level and then set the scope up exactly the same way. When you are required to have taller scope rings, it seems the angle of compensation between the scope and the rifle would be too much to be able to account for. Is this true?

  • @shopdog2
    @shopdog2 Рік тому

    I level the rifle then use the arisaka level tool if scope style allows and or a level on the scope. I then check alignment at a distance using a plumb bob and string against the vertical reticle.

  • @giovannipena9650
    @giovannipena9650 9 місяців тому

    So for my rings do I get low profile or the medium profile I have a Remington 770 and a sig whiskey 3 3x9x40 the low profile is 0.80” and the medium is 1.00”

  • @1982rrose
    @1982rrose Рік тому

    Is there a formula, way to figure what height of mount/rings to select based on your objective, rail, barrel set up? More re bolts than AR's. A data base would be handy to reference.

  • @juneasce1865
    @juneasce1865 3 місяці тому

    Your son looks exactly like you. Great video!

  • @Tedcz2e
    @Tedcz2e Рік тому

    The horizontal recticle line on my scope is slightly curved. I set the scope up so that the vertical recticle is vertical. I can get a near 1 inch group at 200 yards with Premium ammunition. I look through the scope and ignore the curve. Also I do not really know if my scope is canted or what!

  • @buckshotaaa
    @buckshotaaa Рік тому

    The times i've shot mates rifles at the range (as you do) and found the ret is "on the wonk" amazes me. When i comment on that, i get "Oh it's okay how i hold the rifle". Why on earth don't they just level the optic correctly and get an adjustable butt pad?
    My way of fitting a scope to a rifle works for me. Mount rifle in a stable platform, level it with a bubble on the pic rail, then i have one of those level clamps that sits at the muzzle and get both bubbles level so i can see if i knock the rifle during scope fitting.
    Put a bubble on the elevation turret and match it up with the muzzle bubble and "Robert is your mothers brother". Job done.

  • @YetAnotherJohnDoe1776
    @YetAnotherJohnDoe1776 Рік тому +1

    Thank you both for busting this myth. Caleb, I’m so sorry your Recommended is flooded with such misinformation, and I hope you get some good sleep now! 😃 Makes one wonder why use a scope at distances where not leveling doesn’t matter? Maybe just use iron sights, but maybe that’s not tacticool enough or something 😂 Happy holidays!

  • @darronsmith6059
    @darronsmith6059 Рік тому

    I use the plumb bob method to set the vertical part of the reticle perpendicular to the receiver. Hopefully, the barrel is square to that.

  • @MikeA817
    @MikeA817 Рік тому

    doesn't the Sig Tango6 (and MSR) LVPO have lines etched on the tube to help with level mounting? I thought was a cool and helpful little feature.

  • @Redacted-Information
    @Redacted-Information Рік тому

    Yea, we are looking at you Center Axis Relockers!

  • @TK.Wicked
    @TK.Wicked Рік тому

    How long did it take u to learn pretty much the basics of firearms and how would you recommend I learn them.

  • @ronaldmontgomery8446
    @ronaldmontgomery8446 4 дні тому

    I shoot long range off a caldwel tri pod that I modified to fit the flat of my gun stock, everything is level and it works. 300, 600, 900, 1200 yards my only adjustment is vertical.

  • @americanfreedomoutdoors8372

    I would love to see you do a video on how to correctly mount a scope and zero on a AR platform rifle

  • @PentiumThorn
    @PentiumThorn Рік тому

    Facts...If uve ever been to the special Forcials Sniper Course u would know that u have to level the scope to a leveled gun....1 degree offset at 1000m means about 10m off target. Plus wind and humidity and elevation.

  • @jimmychavez8653
    @jimmychavez8653 Рік тому

    Caleb went to a dark place in this video. Well done

  • @crazydave1145
    @crazydave1145 Рік тому

    I'd expect to see this topic on April 1st 😉

  • @jameskennerly9748
    @jameskennerly9748 Рік тому

    Totally agree with y'all!!!

  • @garrettgutierrez2677
    @garrettgutierrez2677 2 місяці тому

    Here's another reason why it matters: a canted scope is extremely annoying. Asked the guy behind the counter at the gun store if he could mount my primary arms slx and he slapped it on no leveling or anything and I could tell as soon as I got to the range it was canted. Unmounted it, mounted it again myself (no vice no levelling kit) and it was still not level. It was so annoying I took the scope off completely and put on a reddot until I can get a gunsmith with the right equipment to mount it. Get it done right the first time!

  • @Oldhogleg
    @Oldhogleg Рік тому +1

    My personal pet peeves are examples of illiteracy used as firearms nomenclature like: the calling the monoblocks on AK stamped receivers "trunnions". Trunnions are fixed hinge pins, not assembly blocks. Calling a 45 Colt a "Long Colt" when there's no such thing. Or defining a stadia mill as a miliradian when in reality it's a tangent ratio of one thousandth, radians are just an approximate equivalent used for angels less than 6°. And so on.

    • @alexisdetocqueville9964
      @alexisdetocqueville9964 Рік тому +2

      It's humorous that you misspell 'nomenclature' in the same sentence as talking about illiteracy. Just poking fun though, I do agree with your point otherwise.

    • @Oldhogleg
      @Oldhogleg Рік тому +1

      @@alexisdetocqueville9964 Lol, yeah, not as young as I used to be with my eye sight and missed the e. Classic Murphy's law. It's fixed now 👍

    • @alexisdetocqueville9964
      @alexisdetocqueville9964 Рік тому +1

      @@Oldhogleg Kind of a funny story - the first time I heard the word was in my high school chemistry class. The teacher apparently thought it was funny to spell it as "gnomenclature" and drew a picture of a gnome as a way to remember it (I forget the exact phrase/joke though), which resulted in me misremembering that as the ACTUAL spelling. As I never saw the word written anywhere else, it wasn't until college when I used it in a typed paper that Microsoft Word highlighted it as misspelled. Imagine my embarrassment when I realized I had been spelling it in my handwriting that way for years!

    • @Oldhogleg
      @Oldhogleg Рік тому

      @@alexisdetocqueville9964 Lol, no doubt.

  • @bradfanspach
    @bradfanspach Рік тому

    What is important is that your vertical reticle line intersects the center of your bore. A level on a surface of a rifle may or may not facilitate that.

  • @RHG48
    @RHG48 Рік тому +4

    Your vertical crosshair should be aligned with a plumbob, aka gravity. It is the only way your reticle subtensions and turrets will track correctly. Once that is set, match a bubble level attatched to your scope that verifies level when you shoot.

  • @versoarmamentcompany
    @versoarmamentcompany Рік тому

    Good video

  • @Frankie-Bleddyn
    @Frankie-Bleddyn Рік тому +1

    If you are only concerned with center of your cross hairs accuracy then no, it does not matter. However and without due diligence with my research (I didn't look it up at all) it seems that if you have a caliber specific scope that is calibrated so that when you site the scope in a given recommended distance, you are supposed to be able to change your aiming point, per distance by using the graduated markings on the scope, for example if you calibrate at 100 meters and move to a target at 200 meters then you would simply move the aiming point down on your scope by two graduations to have your bullet still strike your 100 meter calibration point. If you had your scope angle wrong then you are going to have angle error. But....since I don't like being shackled to only one type of ammunition I completely ignore the graduations on my scope because it is only calibrated to be used with just one bullet of a specific caliber, grain and some other specification I can't remember off the top of my Cro Magnon head. Like the guys said though, if you are trying to hit center at a significant distance, then basically everything matters, hell no moon on a Thursday might make the round float a bit at 800 yards. (I totally made that up)

  • @gregrburnett3400
    @gregrburnett3400 Рік тому

    I think I've seen that video. I have taken to referring to aligning the vertical stadia with the axis bore as "plumbing" rather than "leveling".

  • @richwood8650
    @richwood8650 Рік тому

    When you're walkin' 'em in, nobody gonna know if your scopes crooked.

  • @zacharybroussard3183
    @zacharybroussard3183 Рік тому

    So I’ve heard if you use just a bubble level on the scope and gun the cross hair aren’t always level with the turret. So you use a plumb bob on the cross hairs and level your gun? I’m new and confused on what would be more accurate for hunting setup.

  • @cahonas
    @cahonas 6 місяців тому

    Well done.

  • @calgreco8607
    @calgreco8607 Рік тому

    I tend to tilt my lever actions to the left when fast firing. But i switched to a red dot and inside 50 yards I'm golden now.

  • @randybounds2244
    @randybounds2244 Рік тому +3

    If you are level headed tobacco juice runs out both sides of your mouth.

    • @bobbylee7801
      @bobbylee7801 Рік тому

      If they'd dip square snuff and eat plums they'd have a little more confidence.

  • @clayton5584
    @clayton5584 Рік тому

    It's like an etch'n'sketch. Turn both knobs at the same time for diagonal adjustment

  • @snowlothar45
    @snowlothar45 Рік тому

    Me - Lapped and leveled and torqued. The local store with their free mounting service - how does that look, good enough? Syncro sip - 7.5 out of 10.

  • @NoNo_IStay
    @NoNo_IStay Рік тому +1

    Level the reticle based on holding it canted?? That'd be like putting a donut on your left front wheel because your car is pulling right 🤣

  • @tonymannarino8955
    @tonymannarino8955 5 місяців тому

    I naturally shoot with a slight left cant. If I lock my rifle in a vise with my cant but level my scope it seems that would work. Am I right?

  • @aaawman2280
    @aaawman2280 Рік тому

    I thank there reasoning is if it's canted a bit. Level the horizontal post and fire, I'd rather have the scope level, it doubles to let me know my form is off if the post isn't true.

  • @8mmmauserman
    @8mmmauserman Рік тому

    I once had Caleb comment on an Instagram post and I mentioned it in a video. I hope I can someday be an "inflooenshure" that ya'll watch. Merry Christmas gentlemen.

  • @cretzu69
    @cretzu69 Рік тому

    Caleb please tell me which scope is the best for AR 15, 16 inches barrel
    Thank you so much
    I am new on ArmaLite weapons appreciate it

  • @robertdinicola9225
    @robertdinicola9225 Рік тому +3

    My buddy had a cheap red dot acog looking thing that could not be leveled. He took it off, threw it down range, grabbed my gun and dumped a mag into it! Grabbed his gun and said im done!

    • @NoNo_IStay
      @NoNo_IStay Рік тому +3

      Ahh. Gotta love the Tactical Amazon shoppers.

    • @robertdinicola9225
      @robertdinicola9225 Рік тому

      @@NoNo_IStay he always buys cheap crap. All his best guns i built for him. Finally talked him into something other than a kel tec for carry. But its a g3. Some people, you just cant reach!

    • @crazydave1145
      @crazydave1145 Рік тому

      @@NoNo_IStay have you seen the $40 folding stock adapter they have? I tried to get my cheap friend to buy it just so I could see how cheap it is

    • @sinisterthoughts2896
      @sinisterthoughts2896 Рік тому

      @@robertdinicola9225 a g3? What's wrong with that? I've looked at a lot of high round count reviews and it seems to do quite well in all of them. Is there something I'm missing?

  • @urstmcredhead7107
    @urstmcredhead7107 Рік тому

    The one time that I had to buy a scope, and the scope rings separately id kind of did matter.
    Zero was hard to find because horizontal adjustments also changed vertical.

  • @chrissewell1608
    @chrissewell1608 Рік тому +4

    According to Archimedes principal of physics: you should mount you cross hairs on a 45° angle. Because as we all know, bullets arch. And by having the cross hairs diagonally, you account for the rise and fall of the bullet. And when you shoot gangsta style, you is mo ac-rit! ↗️↘️

  • @dohiii
    @dohiii Рік тому

    Level and plumb is how I was taught. Even when my head is at an angle. Scope bubbles will help you realize how much you tilt your head.

  • @robertedwards4215
    @robertedwards4215 Рік тому

    My 3030 the scope is tilled because of the three adjustments on it. Because i could not eject the shell out of it and it is right on at 100 yards

  • @wildcard556
    @wildcard556 Рік тому

    Not sure if you guys have done a video on this, but proper torque would be a sweet follow-up to this if you haven’t done that yet! If someone else has seen Steven and Caleb do a video about it, let me know.