Use or not use Blue or Purple Loctite on scope bases?

[LarryDScott]

Before I started using Burris Signature rings w/the inserts, I used Leupold rings. I used an alignment bar, then coated the inside of the rings w/ Elmer's rubber cement. This created a grip on the scope, plus it eliminated the possibility of marking the scope tube. I always tightened the screws for all they would stand. I never used a torque wrench, and never marked or crushed a tube. Most scopes that you see for sale w/ring marks
are advertised as having been mounted in some of the highest
priced rings on the market.
BTW, I only used the Hard as Nails on the base screws, and nothing on the ring screws. It worked for me. LDS

 

[bibsmachine]

I use clear "HARD AS NAILS" finger nail polish.
It holds and the screw can be backed out w/o
any problems. Works for me for yrs. LDS

I am with Larry I have been using nail polish for 40 years on the base screws only and never had a problem with them backing out. Also have used Blue Loctite with good results also. I use a good Snap On inch pound torque driver 15 to 20 inch lbs for the rings and 25 inch on bases.

 

[sunnyfisher]

I should have inspected the tubes closer for indentations before sending the scope back but all I can say for sure is there was no apparent damage.
When I installed the new scope I made sure to stay at the low end of the suggested torque range and used nothing on the ring threads.
Seems to be working so far.

 

[CharlieNC]

You don't need Locktite until you need it. If everything fits correctly then it is not needed, but what do you do if it doesn't? On one rifle the screws came loose: cleaned and retorqued, then used blue, then used red, finally JB to bed the base to the rifle. Obviously this was an unpleasant series of events to finally arrive at a solution, and at some point I could have had new holes tapped. Reality does not always cooperate.

 

[nmkid]

As others have mentioned, fingernail polish works just fine. Started using it in the 1970s see no reason to quit. Never had a problem, even on my .30 caliber elk rifles.

 

[338 dude]

I think that the blue may provide rust inhibitive properties. I've never had a problem removing a screw or bolt that I've used it on. I guess I'm a fan of the blue. jd

I too have always used a very small amount of blue Loctite on anything whether it be bases or rings never had a problem taking them loose and I don’t use heat if you need heat or have problems you’re probably using too much

 

[gpop]

I have always used Blue Loctite without any problem on all my scope bases for years but now I am told it is not necessary in most cases. I was told it matters if a base is steel or aluminum and the shape of the screws as to if it is needed. Any expert opinions on this subject ?

Yes!! I don't care what anybody says!! Damn rings and bases WILL loosen up!! I've seen it happen many times no matter how much torque you use!!! I've had two gunsmith's mount scopes and both times the rings and bases come lose and they say it doesn't need loctite!! BS!! I never let them mount scopes!! I use clear fingernail polish on all screws and bases and this eliminates all problems and you can still break it loose when needed!! Trust me on this!!

 

[gpop]

Please no loctite of any kind on scope bases or rings. If it needs it then it will come already applied like the big leupold screws. Proper torque is all thats needed if its a good design

Bullshit !! I've seen it happen !! To several people and twice to myself!! But on by gunsmiths that say just like it doesn't need loctitte!! Ok the gun doesn't need bullets either !! I'll keep using clear nail polish it works great!! And you can still break em loose when needed!! Heavy recoiling rifles are very prone to loosen rings and bases!! Just eliminate the problem to start with ..

 

[Sniperhandle]

Bullshit !! I've seen it happen !! To several people and twice to myself!! But on by gunsmiths that say just like it doesn't need loctitte!! Ok the gun doesn't need bullets either !! I'll keep using clear nail polish it works great!! And you can still break em loose when needed!! Heavy recoiling rifles are very prone to loosen rings and bases!! Just eliminate the problem to start with ..

5 year old thread, You're arguing with yourself.

 

[WSnyder]

5 year old thread, You're arguing with yourself.

Probably been hanging out over at Rokslide and now exporting the DilloDude gospel to the rest of the internet. He’ll probably start railing against “Remington pattern” triggers next.

 

[jghoghunter]

Sounds like ole gpop forgot to take his meds this morning

 

[joshb]

He does seem rather excited about this. Maybe too many espresso cups?
I use blue on my bases. Nothing on my rings, but most of my rings have six screws.

 

[Skunce]

Purple 222 is a low strength removeable grade recommended for screws under 1/4".

 

[Infrequent Shooter]

I have told this story before,,, I bought a real clean 'shooter' Sako 461. It had the stippled receiver top. I removed an old school Redfield base. Lots of red locktite residue. I spent an afternoon w a toothpick and some solvent. Finally I got it 100% cleaned up. I used a wood dowel and a plastic hammer to dislodge the base. I think I have some one piece Leupolds on there now. a 222 Rem mag so not a lot of recoil to worry about.

 

[Texas Solo]

I use blue loctite on the base screws, purple on ring screws. Never had an issue.

 

[DShortt]

Bed the bases. Lap the rings. Leave the LocTite at the hardware store.

 

[Webster]

Bed the bases. Lap the rings. Leave the LocTite at the hardware store.

5 year old post. How many this is how I do it do you need. They repeat.

 

[DShortt]

5 year old post. How many this is how I do it do you need. They repeat.

Does it matter how old the post is if the question is still being asked?

 

[DLT]

Please no loctite of any kind on scope bases or rings. If it needs it then it will come already applied like the big leupold screws. Proper torque is all thats needed if its a good design

Key word IF it’s a good design. I blue loctite all my bases good design or not

 

[LarryDScott]

I assume you use hard as nails on the threads and if this is a correct assumption would it not serve to lubricate the threads just as loctite which would cause the rings to compress the tube too much and also damage the parallax housing which as what vortex believes happened to my scope.
Don’t get me wrong, I love the vortex products and won’t hesitate to buy them again and their customer service is second to none.