How to Put a Scope on an Old 22 Rifle

Small-caliber rifles, such as a .22-caliber rifle, usually will accept a scope on the receiver.

Small-caliber target rifles, such as the .22, are among the most ubiquitous firearms in the world. A .22-caliber rifle shoots a small, cost-effective round that can be used for hunting small game or target practice. While most .22-caliber rifles come with built-in iron sights, it's usually possible to mount a scope to the receiver. Small-caliber rifle scopes are designed specifically to withstand the recoil of a small round, and come in many sizes and magnification powers for just about any shooting situation.

Things You'll Need

• Hex wrench or flat head screwdriver

Instructions

1. Make sure there is no ammunition in the chamber or magazine of the rifle.

2. Place the rifle on a secure platform, such as a work bench or gun vise.

3. Locate the small slots along the receiver of the rifle.

4. Place the rifle scope on the slots so that the larger objective lens is pointing toward the end of the barrel and the viewing end is pointed toward the rifle stock.

5. Align the base of the scope's mount with the slots.

6. Tighten the bolts on the scope mount one at a time using either a hex wrench or flat head screwdriver.

7. Remove the rifle from the work platform and shoulder it. The scope should not wiggle or move at all. If it does, tighten the bolts further.

Tips & Warnings

• If the scope is too close or too far away from your eye to see through it comfortably, loosen the mounting bracket and adjust the position of the scope forward or backward as needed.

• Some older rifles are not designed to accept a scope and will require a qualified gunsmith to drill and tap holes for a scope mount.

References

• Optics Planet: Importance of a Secure Rifle Scope Mounting System

Resources

• Chuck Hawks: Bushnell 4x32mm and 3-9x32mm Rimfire Riflescopes