Scope Base screws

[Pyscodog]

Why do people think they have to tighten them so dang tight? Generally I tighten the base screws around 20 inch pounds and rings 18 inch pounds. Give or take a little depending on the cartridge. I just tried to get the base screws out of a 788 Remington and while the two front screw did come out, but not without major effort but the rear wasn't budging. Its an older mount with slot head screws and I actually broke half the head off. Needess to say, it was ruined. I ended up drilling the head off and used vice grips to remove the threaded part of the screw. But it also ruined the base as my drill walked a little. I guess it just amazes me that some think tighter is better. Working in the maintenance dept for 28 years did teach me how much to tighten a screw. Also taught me how to get them out......most of the time.

 

[NZ_Fclass]

Over tightening is annoying, but not so much as liquid torque,

 

[Pyscodog]

I'm working on a 223. Not like its a thumper.

 

[Chaotik]

I use Nightforce ultralight rings, and the recommended torque setting for the scope base crossbolts is 68 inch pounds. They recommend tightening the ring cap screws to 25 inch pounds.

 

[jdh47]

Carbide end mills work pretty good running fast to drill out those screws if you can set it up in a mill. you have to go slow though. carbide breaks easy especially on interrupted cuts. Little 6-48 screws do not do well tightened too much.