BUBBLE LEVEL

[mram10]

OP,
Mean brings up a good example of why a "tall target test" is needed when you mount a scope. Quick basics:
1. Mount scope on rifle using levels on action and top turret. This gets you close.
2. Line up vertical crosshair with plumb line hanging off something in your yard, NOT buildings, etc that might not be perfectly level.
3. Go do a "tall target test"
Seems like a lot, but you will see the results at 1000 and be glad you spent the extra 20 minutes and handful of shots to get it right.

 

[jr600yd]

Mean is correct and I guess I didn't fully explain. I was talking about a perfect rifle scope set up. Other variables creep in with our rifles. Things like are the scope base holes drilled in perfect alignment with the bore, are the bases and rings perfectly square to each other and barrel harmonics just to name a few.

So, is a level worth it?

For my competition rifles yes. For me it's taken one of the WTF? Variables out of the equation. Now when I make a sight adjustment the POI goes in that direction. No extra windage or elevation is added.

On my hunting rifles no. My hunting is limited to 300 yds or less so I've found I don't need one.

This is what works for me, your milage may vary.