Shimming a scope???

[canadaman30]

I've yet to have a problem until now getting a scope on target. I have 2 piece basses (weaver style). At the range I was way low. Checked everthing and had to shim the bottom of the rear ring. What I used was some Bushnell shims I had kicking around. They are white on one side and black on other. Appear to be paper of some sort. Are these OK to use or should I go some other route to fix problem. I'm now on target but have yet to get a good session of shooting in. Will these shims work over time and hold zero. Or will a 1 piece base solve my problem. Normally most of my guns wear 1 pc basses. Thanks

 

[Rod B]

The paper shim will compress over time. I believe the paper shims were intended to protect the scope tube from marring. They are a poor choice for shimming the scope.

I have used the aluminum from soda cans to make shims. This material is approx .005 thick. Try shimming under the rear base to raise your point of impact.

I have yet to find a benefit of a one piece base versus a two piece. Both work well for me.

 

[maynard]

You did shim under the rear base right?

 

[lclund1946]

I prefer to use Burris Signature Rings. You can get the plastic inserts in +/- 0.010" or =/- 0.020" and use them accordingly. The inserts also do a good job of lining up the rings without lapping and prevent warping and ring damage to the tube.

 

[Pathmaker1977]

yup soda cans work great just did that on mine

 

[big boar]

Burris rings mentioned by Iclund1946 are a good idea. I've used them and they're very good. I've also used brass and stainless shims with good success, never had one change impact or shift. Still I'd go the Burris route, really great idea.

 

[Splatter]

What you have to be wary of is putting the rings out of line, this will apply torque to the scope tube and perhaps damage it.
The Burris Signature rings are the only way to have misaligned rings without bending your tube.

 

[stevesummit]

suck it up and use a one piece rail then you know its lined up

 

[kimberman]

perhaps a 20 moa rail? or 20 moa two peice base set? depends on what type of firearm you're using. I have used the burris sig rings with good luck. Only thing is they don't come in low height, just med, and high. If you use a normal 1 peice base, you can shim the rear part of the base (with metal shims) and not have to worry about screwy scope alignment.