Author Topic: Lapping rings? (Read 522 times)

elmerdeer · « **on:** February 23, 2005, 11:02:25 AM »

Hi guys would like to know how it's done, and is it good to do? I got the warne maxima 1inch quick detach. Thanks

Ramrod · « **Reply #1 on:** February 23, 2005, 11:24:59 AM »

I used to wrap sandpaper around a 1'" dowel, and with the bottom rings installed, sand across both sets until they lined up. The bluing that is removed tells you how far you have to go. I don't bother anymore, and can't see alot of difference. I guess tolerances are better than they used to be.

KN · « **Reply #2 on:** February 23, 2005, 11:30:35 AM »

I have seen too many "dented" scopes from mis-aligned rings not to lap them. I feel its very little trouble to go through to keep from damaging the scope. I use a 1" steel rod and valve grinding compound to true them up. Usually only takes a few minuets. I also use a rag with slots cut in it, with the rings stuck trough, draped over the action to keep any unwanted compound out of where it doesn't belong. KN

Graybeard · « **Reply #3 on:** February 23, 2005, 11:33:26 AM »

Wow, I'm surprised there was enough metal left to hold the scope in place. That DEFINITELY ain't the way to do it.

If you use any of the windage adjustable base/ring types other than Burris Signature Rings lapping should be done. That along with alignment bars really are what makes the difference in the scope working or failing. Any system that requires one or more rings be turned into place should be both aligned and lapped.

Rings that are vertically split cannot be lapped very successfully. Burris Signature rings take all the need out of it and are to my mind the single best way to mount your scope for several reasons.

But to lap you must first have a lapping bar. It should be precisely machined to be the same size as your rings. That is a 1" bar for 1" rings or 30mm for 30mm rings. Use a fine lapping compound made for the purpose. Align the rings using an alignment bar first. Then apply the lapping compound and lap using a back and forth and rocking motion on the bar. Check often to see how much contact you have and where the high spots are that are being lapped away. Stop when you get about 75% to 80% contact.

Improper mounting of scopes is the single biggest cause of scope failures. If you see dents or scratches on the tube of a scope from the rings it was improperly mounted. Proper mounting of scopes will not mar the scope finish.

Ramrod · « **Reply #4 on:** February 23, 2005, 11:51:13 AM »

GB, I was talking about the old steel Weaver rings with the screws on the same side. I have never used the turn in to place kind. I only use horizontally split rings now, and align, but don't lap.