Easy DIY Method For Leveling A Scope Reticle

I was going to say what if you lived on a submarine, but then you likely didn't bring along your long range rifle.

I use two small levels and it seems much easier and less time consuming than the plumb line, but I've never tried it so I can't be sure. Also, you absolutely 100% want your scope plumb with your bore axis.

Most optics companies will have an acceptable error rate for the canting of their reticles, which is why it's always preferable to level the reticle and not the exterior of the scope. I usually start by leveling the rifle and a flat part of the scope like the top of the turret, but then always check against something plumb to make sure the reticle is level. Shoot some box drills and see if the scope tracks.

I've never put this much thought or energy into leveling a scope, and I've never had a reason to complain about any of my rifles not performing as expected. Maybe I got lucky, maybe I just don't shoot long enough ranges.

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Originally Posted by sgtlmj

Most optics companies will have an acceptable error rate for the canting of their reticles, which is why it's always preferable to level the reticle and not the exterior of the scope. I usually start by leveling the rifle and a flat part of the scope like the top of the turret, but then always check against something plumb to make sure the reticle is level. Shoot some box drills and see if the scope tracks.

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What would you say the acceptable error rate is? Just curious.

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Originally Posted by Guylee

What would you say the acceptable error rate is? Just curious.

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Leupold used to say up to 2 degrees was acceptable. Don't know if that is still the case. I've seen high-end scopes like Khales need to be sent back for excessive cant.

If I was to use this method, I'd go with sewing thread or fishing line for the plumb line. It should make the alignment more precise.

I ran across this tool a while back. It mechanically levels your scope, without using a bubble level. It should work if the bottom of your scope's control cluster is square with your reticle and the flat on your scope mount/receiver is square with the plumb-plane through your bore axis.

http://arisakadefense.com/collection...-leveler-combo

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Originally Posted by Storm

If I was to use this method, I'd go with sewing thread or fishing line for the plumb line. It should make the alignment more precise.

I ran across this tool a while back. It mechanically levels your scope, without using a bubble level. It should work if the bottom of your scope's control cluster is square with your reticle and the flat on your scope mount/receiver is square with the plumb-plane through your bore axis.

http://arisakadefense.com/collection...-leveler-combo

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Arisaka copied that from Spuhr. Mile High sells the real-deal Spuhr. It's a bit more money, but it isn't IP theft. ;)

http://spuhrwebshop.com/en/spares/a-0080-81.html