If you’re a beginning hunter or just getting into long-range shooting, you’re probably wondering how far back you should mount your scope. The answer depends on a few factors, but generally speaking, you should try to mount your scope as far back as possible. This will help you to achieve a better sight picture and make it easier to track your target.
Advance Tips: How Far Back To Mount Scope?

When it comes to mounting a scope, the general rule of thumb is that the scope should be mounted as far back on the gun as possible. This allows for better balance and a more comfortable shooting position. It also helps to reduce the amount of recoil that is felt by the shooter.
There are a few things to keep in mind when mounting a scope, however. First, the scope should be mounted at the correct height. This means that the center of the scope should be in line with the shooter’s eye. Second, the scope should be mounted so that the windage and elevation adjustments are in the center of their respective ranges. This will help to ensure that the scope is properly zeroed.
Finally, it is important to make sure that the scope is mounted securely. This means that the rings and the base should be tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. Failure to do this could result in the scope becoming loose and coming off of the gun during firing.
When it comes to mounting a scope, the best advice is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. By doing so, you can be sure that the scope is mounted properly and securely.
What is a scope mount and what is its purpose
A scope mount is a device that is attached to a firearm to secure a scope or other optical devices. Its purpose is to hold the scope in place and provide a stable platform for consistent shooting accuracy. Scope mounts also provide a way to adjust the scope’s position on the firearm to ensure proper eye relief for the shooter, and to align the scope’s reticle with the bore of the firearm. In addition, scope mounts make it easier to remove and reinstall the scope for transport and storage. The distance of the scope mount from the rear of the firearm is determined by the type and size of the scope and the type of firearm.
Discuss the different types of mounts and their uses
There are three main types of mounts used to attach a scope to a gun: Picatinny, Weaver, and Dovetail. The Picatinny mount is the most secure and versatile option and is typically used for tactical and precision rifles. It has slots for adjustment of the scope’s eye relief and windage and elevation, allowing for precise aiming. The Weaver mount is the most common mount used for hunting rifles and is sturdier and more reliable than the dovetail mount.
The Dovetail mount is the least secure of the three mounts and is typically used on rimfire rifles. It provides less adjustment and is not recommended for precision shooting. All three mounts can be used to mount a scope far back on a gun, depending on the size and weight of the scope and the distance needed for proper eye relief.
Factors to consider when making a choice
When choosing how far back to mount a scope, there are several factors to consider. First, one must consider the size and type of the firearm, as well as the type of ammo used. For example, a longer barrel and heavier rounds will require a longer scope mount. Additionally, one must consider the type of shooting they plan to do, as a longer mount will provide a better line of sight for long-range shooting. Finally, the type of optic should also be taken into consideration, as some may require a longer mount than others. By taking all of these factors into consideration, one can determine the best option for how far back to mount a scope.
Understanding the basics of scope mounting and why it matters
Scope mounting is an important process to ensure proper accuracy and safety when using a firearm. It involves securely attaching the scope to the rifle so that it can be accurately and safely used for target shooting or hunting. When mounting a scope, it is important to know how far back to mount it from the receiver, which refers to the distance from the back of the scope to the centerline of the rifle bore. This distance is important because it determines how far away the shooter’s eye will be from the scope’s optical center. Too far back and the shooter may have difficulty seeing through the scope. Too close and the shooter may experience eye fatigue or difficulty focusing on the target. The correct distance will depend on the size of the scope and the individual shooter’s preference and shooting style.
Tips and tricks for adjusting a scope to achieve optimum accuracy
Mounting a scope too far back on the rifle can cause it to be difficult to achieve optimum accuracy. When mounting a scope, make sure to adjust the eye relief to the appropriate distance. This will ensure that your eye is in the proper position when looking through the scope. Additionally, make sure to adjust the scope’s windage and elevation knobs to be in line with the rifle’s barrel. This will help to ensure that the scope is properly lined up with the rifle’s barrel and that the scope’s aiming point is in the correct position for the most accurate shot.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
This really depends on the type of firearm you are using and your personal preferences. For bolt action rifles, it is generally recommended to mount the scope as far back as possible. This allows for better eye relief and a more comfortable shooting position. For semi-automatic rifles, you will need to be careful not to obstruct the ejection port. As a general rule of thumb, you should try to mount the scope as close to the receiver as possible.
There are a few different ways that you can determine the proper eye relief. The first is to simply mount the scope and look through it. If the image is clear and you can comfortably keep both eyes open, then the eye relief is likely sufficient. Another method is to mount the scope and then slowly move your head back and forth until you find the sweet spot. Once you have found the spot where the image is clearest, you can mark it and then mount the scope in that position.
There are a few potential consequences of mounting the scope too far forward. First, it can be very uncomfortable to shoot in this position. Second, you may not have enough eye relief, which can lead to the scope hitting you in the eye if the gun recoils. Finally, it can be very difficult to get a clear sight picture if the scope is too close to your eye.
If you mount the scope too far back, you may have problems with the gun ejecting the spent shells properly. Additionally, you may find it difficult to get a clear sight picture because the scope will be too far away from your eye. Finally, you may have issues with eye relief if the scope is mounted too far back.
There are a few different methods that you can use for mounting a scope on a bolt action rifle. The most important thing is to make sure that the scope is mounted as far back as possible. This will help to improve eye relief and make it more comfortable to shoot. You can use either rings or a rail system to mount the scope. If you are using rings, it is important to make sure that they are properly aligned so that the scope is level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question “How far back to mount scope?” is dependent on a number of factors including the make and model of the rifle, the type of scope, the shooting discipline, and the shooter’s personal preference. Ultimately, it is advisable to seek the advice of a qualified gunsmith or shooting instructor to ensure that the scope is mounted correctly and safely.

A. Wilcox Head is a lifelong shooter, hunter, and firearms enthusiast. Head grew up in a family where firearms were a way of life, and from an early age, he was taught the importance of firearm safety, accuracy, and proper hunting techniques.
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