I don't think it's necessary, but some shooters do..
http://www.varminthunters.com/tech/nef.htmlI've never had an issue with the scope rail flexing or causing inaccuracy, so I don't bed the unsupported end. I do fit it to the barrel, tho. I remove the raised area or burr around each mount hole in the barrel with a file, then touch-up reblue it. Place a piece of fine emery cloth on the barrel over the mounting area, then move the rail fore and aft on top of the barrel in the mounting location, this laps the rail so it fits the barrel better, you'll see where the high spots are, when you get full contact, it's almost ready to mount. Make sure all of the factory thread sealant is removed from the mount holes, it will appear dull, I use a micro torch and a sewing awl or a dental pick to remove it. When you see a bright, shiny bottom in the holes, you'll know they're clean. Then I bed it in
blue purple loctite, it will form a nice full contact bed without using any epoxy. It's good enough for sub moa accuracy, and even some much better than that on my good days!! The loctite is easily removed with a finger nail when/if it needs to be remounted in the future.
Be sure to not let loctite run down tween barrel and frame, or you may lock the barrel shut temporaily if it cures before you open the action!! Don't ask how I know that!!
Tim
