Understanding the Ruger American Rifle’s Design and How It Affects Mount Selection
The Ruger American Rifle. A name synonymous with affordability, reliability, and accuracy. It has rapidly become a favorite among hunters and shooters alike, a testament to its well-designed action and consistent performance. But to truly unlock the RAR’s potential, you need more than just a great rifle. You need the right optic, and crucially, the right *Ruger American scope mount*. This article serves as your comprehensive guide, navigating the world of scope mounting solutions, ensuring your shots hit their mark, and maximizing your rifle’s capabilities.
Precision shooting starts with a solid foundation, and the scope mount is the cornerstone of that foundation. A poorly chosen or installed scope mount can ruin the accuracy of even the finest rifle and optic. This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision, ensuring you select the perfect mount to fit your needs, budget, and shooting style. We’ll delve into the various types of mounts, discuss crucial considerations, and offer practical advice to help you achieve optimal performance from your Ruger American Rifle. Let’s dive in.
Before exploring scope mounting options, understanding the Ruger American Rifle’s action is key. The RAR is a bolt-action rifle, a design known for its simplicity and strength. The bolt action involves a bolt that moves back and forth, loading and extracting cartridges from the chamber. This design contributes to the rifle’s inherent accuracy and ease of maintenance.
The receiver, the heart of the rifle, is the part that houses the bolt and supports the barrel. Ruger has engineered the RAR’s receiver with pre-drilled and tapped holes specifically designed to accept scope mounting hardware. This standardized system simplifies the mounting process, allowing for a wide range of scope mounting solutions. Typically, the receiver will accommodate a specific screw pattern. Knowing this pattern is essential when selecting the appropriate scope mount; make sure the chosen mount is compatible with the RAR’s receiver design.
The RAR’s receiver design is fundamentally sound for mounting a scope. The robust construction, coupled with the standardized screw pattern, allows for a secure and stable platform for your optic, which, in turn, allows for consistent and accurate shot placement. Understanding these structural elements informs your choices. It ensures the selected scope mount can properly mate with the rifle, enabling the proper alignment and stability needed to hold zero and deliver precise results. This ultimately leads to a satisfying shooting experience, allowing you to push your rifle to its limits, whether you are taking down game, or punching holes in paper targets.
Exploring the Different Types of Scope Mounting Solutions
Selecting the right scope mount can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. A clear understanding of the options helps. We’ll explore the common types, their respective advantages, and the scenarios where they perform best.
Rails: The Versatile Platform
Rails are among the most popular scope mounting solutions. They offer a long, continuous platform for mounting scopes, and they come in two primary types: Picatinny and Weaver.
Picatinny Rails: Picatinny rails, also known as MIL-STD-1913 rails, are the industry standard. They feature a standardized spacing of slots and grooves, allowing for a wide range of scope rings and accessories to be mounted. Their standardized design is the primary reason for their high degree of popularity. Picatinny rails are exceptionally versatile and provide a rock-solid foundation for a variety of scopes, from compact models to larger, heavier optics. They are a favorite choice for tactical shooting, hunting, and target shooting.
Weaver Rails: Weaver rails are an older standard. While similar to Picatinny rails, they have wider slots that don’t have the standardized spacing, which means some accessories may not be compatible. Weaver rails are still a viable option, especially for older rifles, but Picatinny rails are more prevalent and offer greater compatibility.
Both types of rails come in various lengths. Consider your scope’s size and the desired eye relief when selecting the rail length. A longer rail provides more mounting options, allowing for greater flexibility when positioning the scope.
The material used to construct a rail has a significant impact on its durability and longevity. High-quality rails are typically made from either aluminum or steel. Aluminum rails are lightweight and often more affordable, but they may not be as durable as steel rails, especially under heavy recoil. Steel rails, while heavier, offer superior strength and are more resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for high-recoil rifles or demanding applications. When selecting a rail, prioritize quality construction and material.
Bases: The Foundation for Rings
Bases serve as the interface between the rifle’s receiver and the scope rings. They provide a secure platform for attaching the rings, which in turn, hold the scope.
Two-Piece Bases: Two-piece bases, as the name suggests, consist of two separate bases that attach to the receiver. These are often favored for their ease of installation and lighter weight. They can be adjusted to accommodate variations in receiver hole spacing, making them a versatile option for various rifles. However, because they are separate components, they may not be as inherently rigid as one-piece bases.
One-Piece Bases: One-piece bases offer a more robust and stable platform. They mount across the receiver as a single unit, minimizing the chance of movement or misalignment. They typically offer a higher degree of accuracy and are a good choice for shooters who value the utmost in stability and precision. They may, however, be slightly more challenging to install, and they can sometimes be more expensive.
The material used to construct bases is similar to rails. Aluminum bases are lighter and more affordable. Steel bases are stronger, and more suitable for heavy recoil rifles and demanding shooting styles. The choice of base often depends on the specific application and the shooter’s preferences.
Rings: The Final Connection
Scope rings are the final link in the scope mounting system. They clamp around the scope’s tube, securing it to the base (or directly to the rail), holding it in place.
Ring Diameter: The ring diameter must match the scope’s tube diameter. Most scopes use either a 1-inch or a 30mm tube. This measurement is a critical factor that must be considered before purchasing. Using an incorrect ring diameter will render the whole set up useless.
Ring Height: Ring height is another crucial factor to consider, and the ideal height depends on several factors, including the objective lens diameter of the scope, the shape of the barrel, and the shooter’s preferences. The ring height needs to allow sufficient clearance for the objective lens, preventing it from touching the barrel and ensuring proper alignment. Correct ring height is important because it directly affects the cheek weld, the position of the shooter’s cheek on the stock. Proper cheek weld is critical for obtaining a consistent sight picture and maintaining accuracy.
Ring Design: Several ring designs are available, each with its unique features. Split rings, the most common type, have two halves that clamp around the scope tube. Tactical rings are often heavier-duty and offer additional features, such as built-in levels or mounting points for accessories.
Choosing the right scope rings is crucial for accuracy and reliability. They play an integral role in properly supporting the scope and must withstand the stresses of recoil and the rigors of use.
Critical Factors for Choosing the Perfect Ruger American Scope Mount
Beyond understanding the different types of mounts, several other considerations influence your final decision. These factors ensure your choice aligns with your specific needs and shooting goals.
Scope Type and Size: The size and type of your scope play a vital role. As mentioned, the objective lens diameter dictates the required ring height. A scope with a larger objective lens (the front lens) necessitates higher rings to provide sufficient clearance from the barrel. Also consider the scope’s tube diameter, because it must match the ring’s diameter.
Shooting Style and Intended Use: Your shooting style, be it hunting, target shooting, or tactical applications, dictates the mount’s durability and features. For hunting, where reliability in harsh conditions is paramount, consider a mount constructed from durable materials, such as steel. Tactical shooters may require a mount with additional features, such as integrated levels or mounting points for accessories. Target shooters often prioritize accuracy and may opt for higher-end mounts designed for precision. The type of shooting you will primarily be doing with your Ruger American rifle is important when making a selection.
Budget: The price range for scope mounts varies significantly. Entry-level mounts are often more affordable, but may not offer the same level of precision or durability as higher-end options. Setting a budget before you start shopping is a smart move. High-end mounts are made with superior materials and offer more refined designs. Balance your needs, intended use, and budget to make an informed decision. Don’t be afraid to invest in a quality mount. A high-quality mount will prove to be an important investment over time.
Ease of Installation: Choose a mount that is easy to install. A poorly installed mount can negatively impact accuracy. Look for mounts that provide clear instructions and are compatible with standard tools. Reviews will often provide helpful information about installation, so reading customer feedback is a good way to determine how difficult a product is to use.
General Installation Guidelines
Installing a scope mount might seem complex, but with care and the right tools, it’s a manageable task. Here’s a general guide:
1. Read the Instructions: Always start by carefully reading the manufacturer’s instructions for both the mount and your scope.
2. Prepare the Receiver: Clean the receiver’s mounting holes.
3. Mount the Base or Rail: Securely attach the base or rail to the receiver using the appropriate screws. Tighten the screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications, using a torque wrench is highly recommended.
4. Attach the Rings: Attach the rings to the base or rail, and carefully align them.
5. Mount the Scope: Place the scope in the rings, ensuring proper eye relief.
6. Tighten the Rings: Tighten the ring screws evenly, using a torque wrench to avoid over-tightening.
7. Level the Scope: Use a leveling tool to ensure the scope is perfectly level.
8. Final Checks: Double-check all screws for proper torque.
9. Bore Sighting: Bore-sight your scope. This is when you align the reticle with the barrel before you move to the range.
10. Range Time: Head to the range for final zeroing.
Following these steps ensures a secure, aligned scope mount.
Recommendations for Superior Scope Mounts
For a high-quality rail, consider rails from brands such as EGW or Warne.
For a base that will offer great support, explore models from manufacturers such as Burris or Leupold.
For rings, Warne and Vortex produce top-tier products.
Maintaining Your Scope Mount
Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring your scope mount remains reliable over time. Regularly inspect the mount and its screws for any signs of wear or looseness. Clean your mount with a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution. If you notice any loose screws, tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. A well-maintained mount ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your scope.
Conclusion
Choosing the right scope mount for your Ruger American Rifle is a crucial step in maximizing your rifle’s accuracy and performance. By understanding the different types of mounts, considering the factors discussed, and following proper installation and maintenance procedures, you can create a solid foundation for precision shooting. Remember, the best mount is one that fits your specific needs, budget, and shooting style. By making informed decisions, you’ll unlock the full potential of your RAR, achieving a more satisfying and accurate shooting experience. Take the time to do your research and select a mount that will serve you well for years to come. This guide is designed to help you make the correct decision and obtain a scope mount that will allow you to achieve precision results.
Make the right choice and get out there and start shooting!
