Scope mods?

[bluechip]

Which method is the most proven for insuring accuracy in a target scope, set-screws, opposite the adj. knobs or the heavy spring (Tucker?). I have a few Weavers and also Sightrons that I am thinking of playing with, all are 36x.

 

[Boyd Allen]

Before you fix something, don't you think that you might want to know if it is really broken? Several years ago, Lou Murdica tested eight Leupold 45s, half of them were moving, half were not. Another thing, if you ask, Cecil Tucker will furnish a solid rod that can be used to produce a similar effect to opposing screws. The problem with all of this is that none of it addresses lateral movement in the erector tube pivot.

 

[bluechip]

Erector tube pivot?

Boyd, I've never been inside of a scope and am not familiar with the terminology. Erector tube pivot? Fill me in here. If all scopes are basically alike except for quality, maybe I will 'sacrifice' my tasco to learn about the working inside a scope.

 

[Boyd Allen]

Don't get in a big hurry to rip into a scope just yet. The erector tube has the lenses in it that turn the image so that it is right side up, hence the name. In a typical second focal plane (what we are working with) design the reticle is right in front of the eyepiece, at the back of the erector tube. At the same end of the tube is a provision that allows the tube to pivot at the back when the turrets are adjusted at the front. Usually, a spring or springs holds the movable front of the erector tube against the inner ends of the turret adjustments. I will look around and see if I can find a couple of cut away pictures' links and post them.
http://accurateshooter.wordpress.com/2010/01/30/shot-show-report-cutaway-weaver-scope/

 

[jackie schmidt]

Bluechip

I have been into a lot of Benchrest Scopes, and I say this with all honesty. The only modification that specifically addresses what is really wrong with the various models is the Tucker Conversion on the 36X Leupold.

What Cecil does is add a coil spring assembly that is more positive in holding the erector tube against the scope knob abutments, and most important, he machines a small groove in the major diameter of the erector tube pivot diameter and adds a small 0-Ring that stabilizes the erector tube in the radial plain.

All of the others, whether they be screws, or whatever, do not address the criticle erector tube pivot point. In fact, many of the mods I have seen actually can place the erector tube in a bind, because the screws are placed at a point that can actually bend the erector tube, rather than secure it.

.....jackie