Mounting rings too close ?

[CoffeeInMe]

I mounted a Bushnell 3x9x40 with a set of Leupold PRW low rings. Im not sure on my terminology but I had the rear ring mounted right next to the assembly that houses the windage/elevation reticle controls. As I was sighting in this new gun I noticed after clicking a few adjustments that it would all of a sudden make large changes in the points of impact. After changing to a different scope I noticed that the gun was still spraying bullets in an undesired fashion but but could definitely be more predictable. My question is whats the chances that I may have had the ring either too closely mounted to the windage/elevation adjustment housing and/or had the ring too tight causing a bind of some kind internally ?

[CoffeeInMe]

Alright I have a different question now. It sounds like from what Ive read that I made a mistake by not lapping the rings first. So I might have damaged the scope. Im going to be taking my scope into a sporting goods store and have them mount the scope for me. So my question is can they check my scope out to see if it adjusts properly in comparison to a fixed object or some bore laser light or something ?

[victorcharlie]

You could very well have the rings to tight.

I doubt you damaged the scope, but you can put it face down on a mirror and watch the adjustments as you change them.

Lapping the rings is a good idea, but won't help IMO.

Mount the tube farther back from the adjustments and don't over tighten the rings.

[CoffeeInMe]

Thanks victorcharlie I hope its not damaged. I might be able to find something out tomorrow. I just dont want to spend any more on another scope.

[Brithunter]

I suggest that you try another scope.

You didn't say which Bushnell model your using some have less than steller reputations I hear. As for lapping rings ................... well I have never yet had to resort to that  .