Choosing the right scope mounts for your Savage 110 rifle is crucial for accuracy and a safe shooting experience. This guide will delve into the various types of mounts available, factors to consider when selecting them, and installation tips to ensure a perfect fit. We'll cover everything from the basics to advanced considerations, making your scope mounting process smooth and straightforward.
Understanding Savage 110 Receiver Variations
Before diving into specific mounts, it's essential to understand that Savage 110 rifles come in several variations, each potentially impacting your mount selection. These variations primarily relate to the receiver design, which dictates the type of mounting system compatible with your rifle. Key considerations include:
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Action Type: The action type (e.g., short action, long action) dictates the overall length of the receiver and influences the placement of the scope rings. Incorrect ring placement can lead to clearance issues with the bolt handle or ejection port.
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Receiver Material: While most Savage 110s have steel receivers, variations exist. The receiver's material affects the strength and durability of the mount. Ensure your chosen mounts are compatible with your specific receiver material.
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Factory Modifications: If your Savage 110 has factory modifications (e.g., aftermarket bolt handle), it might alter the available space for scope mounts, necessitating careful measurement and selection.
Types of Savage 110 Scope Mounts
Several types of scope mounts cater specifically to the Savage 110 platform:
1. One-Piece Mounts:
- Advantages: One-piece mounts offer superior rigidity and alignment, promoting improved accuracy. They're generally easier to install and provide a robust, stable platform for your scope.
- Disadvantages: Can be less versatile if you need to adjust scope height significantly. Finding the perfect height might require multiple attempts.
2. Two-Piece Mounts:
- Advantages: Offer greater flexibility in scope height adjustment and are often more budget-friendly than one-piece mounts. Easier to replace individual components if damaged.
- Disadvantages: May be slightly less rigid than one-piece mounts, potentially impacting accuracy at long ranges. Require precise alignment to ensure correct scope placement.
3. Picatinny Rail Mounts:
- Advantages: Offer incredible versatility, enabling easy scope changes and the use of various accessories. Picatinny rails are widely available and often preferred for their modularity.
- Disadvantages: Adding a rail system can add to the overall cost and might slightly increase the rifle's overall weight.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Scope Mounts
Beyond the type of mount, several factors will influence your choice:
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Scope Diameter: Ensure the mount is compatible with your scope's tube diameter (typically 1 inch or 30mm). Using incorrect rings can damage your scope or lead to instability.
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Scope Height: Choose a mount that provides adequate clearance between the scope and the rifle's action. Insufficient clearance can prevent the bolt from operating smoothly or interfere with the ejection cycle. Excessive height can create an awkward cheek weld.
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Mount Material: Steel and aluminum are the most common materials. Steel mounts are typically more durable but heavier, while aluminum mounts offer a lighter-weight option with good strength.
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Ring Material: Similar to mount material, rings are often steel or aluminum. Steel provides greater durability, while aluminum is lighter.
Installation and Tips for Success
Precise installation is key. Follow these steps for a successful mount installation:
- Thorough Cleaning: Clean the receiver thoroughly before mounting to ensure a secure bond.
- Proper Torque: Use the correct torque specifications for your chosen mounts. Over-tightening can damage the receiver or mounts, while under-tightening can compromise stability.
- Scope Alignment: Ensure your scope is correctly aligned using a boresight or laser boresighter before heading to the range.
- Test Firing: Always test fire your rifle after installation at a safe range, ensuring proper function and accuracy.
By carefully considering these factors and following the proper installation procedures, you can ensure your Savage 110 scope mounts provide a stable, accurate, and safe shooting platform. Remember to consult your rifle's manual and the mount manufacturer's instructions for detailed specifications.
