To torque or not to torque that is the question

[Wendell]

 

[Mudduck]

I have a Wheeler fat boy but when I tested it after a few year calibration is way off. May be my fault as a few times I forgot to set it back to zero . I purchased this one and it works great. I like it much better

 

[Jahnj0584]

I just installed 3 scopes by hand this weekend. I use one index finger on the long arm of the hex key and go until snug. I then torqued it to 15inlbs and no bolt turned more than 1/16th of a turn. I would say this is pretty damm close and not really worth the $80+ needed to buy a driver.

 

[Mudduck]

I guess it depends on the quality of rings and scope you have if you want to use a torque wrench. I have a number of Swarovski scopes so I prefer to be as accurate as possible because if I screw up one of my scopes it will cost me a lot more then a torque wrench. Many yesrs ago I screwed up a scope from over tightening so I hope I never make that mistake again.

 

[fritzhanzel]

It is very important to get 1. The scope rings or mount evenly to the rail 2. Tighten the rings down equally - many people are doing wrong right there in those 2 areas. I have never used a torque wrench, to me it is like a meat thermometer when you do BBQ. I think it may be useful but used wrong can do as much damage as using a too big of a wrench or drive. You overtighten very easily. When you are at it, buy a level as well, lol. Never had one, my eyes are just fine. Again, you have to have your rifle level, then your rail, then your rings, then your scope. OMG, my head is spinning.

Like those guys on youtube "we don't get sponsored by the manufacturer selling this $3,000 scope", yes sure.