Help with problem with scope on Tikka .300 mag

[jackD]

I just got back from shooting my Tikka .300 mag, this is the first time I have shoot it. I had it boresighted, but I noticed the scope was not perfectlt straight. I loosened the scope in the rings and noticed the scope had been tightened so much the tube actually had been dented. But I straightened it up and at 50 yards my first group was everywhere, checked the scope and everything seemed tight. Shot another one and the same problem, no 2 shots were within 2 inches. My other 2 rifles were shooting like always 1- 1.74 inches at 100 yards, so when I looked again the scope had been moving in the rings, but everything was tight. So now I am wondering if it is the scope, the tube looks to be straight just a little concave on the bottom, But the scope is still moving in the rings. What are the best rings for a Tikka, the have the groove where no base is needed? Also would a small bow in the tube affect it? Thanks

[victorcharlie]

You might try adding some shims inside the rings and see if that keeps the scope from moving.  Ace hardware usually has several different thickness.  I'm thinking the dent probably won't matter, but until you get the scope where it doesn't move there isn't much you can do.

[Graybeard]

You've probably already ruined the scope. Best hope it carried a good warranty. You're gonna need it.

I've been telling folks for many years about this. Improper mounting ruins probably 90%+ of the scopes that fail each year. Unless you use Burris Signature Rings (which I HIGHLY recommend you do) then you simply MUST lap them and use alignment bars to be sure they are properly aligned before you ever set that scope in them. Failure to heed this advice is what keeps scope manufacturers busy.

[wild willy]

a alignment and lapping kit is a must have for mounting scopes you'll be amazed at how far out of alignment some scope bases and rings are