Vision on

Mounting and zeroing a rifle scope is straightforward enough, but far too many people regard it as something of a black art. It isn’t, and here is a simple guide for anyone doing it for the first time.

Mounting your scope

There are various systems for fixing a telescopic sight to the rifle. Most comprise separate bases and rings. The twin bases, or perhaps a rail system, fix directly to the top of a rifle’s receiver, which is usually pre-drilled to accept them. Some rimfires or air rifles may only have dovetail grooves; mounts such as this, which only have to withstand low recoil, may be one-piece. The mounting blocks must be right for a rifle – your gun dealer will be able to advise, if necessary.

Ensure that all surfaces are clean and, following the instructions, fit the bases to the rifle receiver. A light smear of