Understanding Side Mount Scope Systems
What is a Side Mount Scope?
The iconic .30-30. For generations, this lever-action rifle has been a cornerstone of American hunting and shooting heritage. Its reliability, manageable recoil, and effective range have made it a favorite for everything from whitetail deer hunts to plinking at the range. But as shooters seek to extend their effective range and enhance their accuracy, many are considering how to equip their trusty .30-30 with a modern optical advantage: a scope.
One of the primary benefits of a side mount is that it preserves the rifle’s ability to eject spent brass freely. The scope and its mounting system are positioned to the side, leaving the top of the receiver unobstructed. This eliminates the frustrating jams and malfunctions that can occur with top-mounted scopes, especially when using longer scope bodies.
Furthermore, a side mount often allows you to maintain a clear line of sight to the iron sights. Some side mount systems are designed to sit slightly above the receiver, allowing you to quickly transition between the scope and the iron sights if needed. This versatility is a valuable advantage, particularly in situations where a quick shot at close range might be required.
From an aesthetic point of view, many shooters appreciate the look of a side-mounted scope. It can maintain the classic lines of the lever-action rifle while providing a modern upgrade in optical capabilities. The placement of the scope on the side can even add a touch of character and personality to the rifle.
However, it’s important to acknowledge potential downsides. The installation process can, in some cases, involve modifications to the rifle. This may range from minor adjustments to the receiver to drilling and tapping for mounting screws. Furthermore, the scope’s position on the side can introduce a slight offset from the bore axis. This requires careful consideration and adjustments during the sighting-in process to ensure accuracy. Also, the sight can be heavier or more cumbersome when compared to the top-mounted version.
Common Types of Side Mount Systems
The market offers a diverse selection of side mount systems, each with its unique features and benefits. Choosing the right one for your .30-30 requires understanding the different types available.
Specific mounts designed expressly for lever-action rifles form a large part of the market. These mounts are engineered to fit the unique contours and specifications of these firearms. Examples include mounts that attach directly to the receiver using pre-existing screw holes or by drilling and tapping new ones. These mounts are often made specifically to work with Weaver-style rings.
Then there are the universal or adaptable mounts. These offer versatility and can often be fitted to a wide array of different rifles. They typically feature adjustable bases and hardware to accommodate various receiver sizes and configurations. While potentially suitable for a .30-30, it is crucial to ensure that the mount is designed to withstand the recoil generated by the .30-30 cartridge.
The materials used in manufacturing side mounts also vary. Steel mounts are known for their robust durability and resistance to wear and tear. They can withstand harsh conditions and are suitable for heavy use. Aluminum mounts, on the other hand, are lighter in weight and often provide a good balance of strength and affordability. The choice of material depends on the level of durability and weight you are looking for.
Quick detach mounts are another important category. These allow the user to easily detach and reattach the scope without affecting its zero. This feature is particularly useful if you want to use your iron sights or need to transport the rifle with the scope removed.
Important Features for Consideration
When selecting a side mount system, several key features deserve your attention. The durability and material used in the mount are crucial. Choose a mount made from high-quality materials that can withstand the stresses of recoil and environmental conditions. Whether it is steel or aluminum, make sure it is made to last.
The mounting hardware, including screws, base, and rings, is equally important. Make sure the screws are of appropriate size and strength to securely attach the mount to the receiver and the scope rings to the base. The rings should also be compatible with your scope’s tube diameter.
Ease of installation and removal is another factor to consider. Some mounts are designed for easy, tool-free installation, while others may require specialized tools and modifications. Think about your comfort level with tools and your ability to perform modifications if the mount requires them.
The mount’s compatibility with various scope brands and sizes should be assessed. Consider whether the mount will accommodate the specific scope you plan to use, or whether it is versatile enough to support potential future scope upgrades.
Some side mounts provide adjustment features such as windage adjustment. While windage adjustment is often incorporated in the scope itself, a mount with windage adjustability can be helpful during the initial sighting-in process.
Choosing the Right Scope for Your .30-30
Scope Magnification
The appropriate magnification range for a .30-30 largely depends on your intended shooting distances and the terrain you are hunting or shooting in. For most common hunting scenarios, magnifications between 2x and 7x or 3x and 9x are generally ideal. These ranges provide a good balance of field of view at lower magnification and the ability to reach out to longer distances at higher magnification.
Scope Features
Consider the size of the objective lens. A larger objective lens (the front lens of the scope) gathers more light, resulting in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions. However, a larger objective lens also increases the overall size and weight of the scope. You must find a balance between light gathering ability and the practical considerations of weight and profile.
The reticle, or crosshairs, is another key consideration. A duplex reticle, with thicker outer posts and a thinner center crosshair, is a popular choice for its simplicity and ease of use. Ballistic drop compensating (BDC) reticles are designed to compensate for bullet drop at varying ranges, helping you make accurate shots at longer distances. Some scopes feature illuminated reticles, which can be very helpful in low-light scenarios.
The turrets and adjustment mechanisms of a scope are essential. Many modern scopes utilize MOA (Minute of Angle) or MIL (milliradian) adjustments. MOA and MIL are units of angular measurement, and the turrets allow you to adjust the crosshairs to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift.
Scope Brands and Models
The specific choice of scope brands and models can make a significant difference. There are numerous reputable manufacturers that offer scopes well-suited for the .30-30 cartridge. Leupold, Vortex, and Nikon, among others, are known for their quality optics and durability. When choosing a scope, be sure to consider the overall price range you are comfortable with. High-quality scopes can be an investment, but they often offer superior optical performance and longevity.
Considerations specific to the .30-30 cartridge
When selecting a scope for your .30-30, there are a few factors that are specific to the cartridge. Bullet drop is a significant factor for the .30-30. A BDC reticle or a scope with easily adjustable turrets can make a big difference. You should also take into account the cartridge’s ballistic characteristics for your chosen load, which determine bullet drop and wind drift.
Installing a Side Mount Scope
Preparation
Before you head to the range to sight in your scope, you will need to prepare. Begin by gathering the necessary tools and equipment. This includes a secure shooting rest, a level, screwdrivers, and the ammunition you plan to use. Ensure that all safety precautions are in place, including eye protection and a safe shooting environment. Always follow all range safety rules.
Step-by-step Installation Guide
Once you are ready, carefully install the side mount on your rifle following the manufacturer’s instructions. Now, install the rings onto the mount. Once installed, install the scope onto the rings, paying close attention to proper eye relief, the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece. Adjust the scope’s position until you achieve a clear and comfortable sight picture. Ensuring the scope is level is also crucial. Use a level to verify that the scope is plumb and does not cant.
Important Tips and Tricks
After mounting the scope, you can now start the sighting-in procedure. Using a bore sighter, carefully look through the barrel and align the scope’s reticle. This is a rough alignment. Fire a group of three shots at a target at a known distance.
If you choose to use thread locker, make sure to use the proper type. Over-tightening screws can damage the rifle. Ensure the rifle is stable when mounting the scope and rings. And of course, make sure the scope is level so that the crosshairs are parallel to the rifle.
Sighting In Your Scope
Preparing for Sighting-In
Before you head to the range to sight in your scope, you will need to prepare. Begin by gathering the necessary tools and equipment. This includes a secure shooting rest, a level, screwdrivers, and the ammunition you plan to use. Ensure that all safety precautions are in place, including eye protection and a safe shooting environment. Always follow all range safety rules.
Basic Sighting-In Procedure
After mounting the scope, you can now start the sighting-in procedure. Using a bore sighter, carefully look through the barrel and align the scope’s reticle. This is a rough alignment. Fire a group of three shots at a target at a known distance.
Once you have a good grouping, make adjustments to your scope’s turrets to move the point of impact (POI) to your desired zero. Each click of the turret represents a specific amount of adjustment, typically ¼ MOA or ⅛ MOA, depending on the scope. Follow the instructions provided with your scope to understand how to adjust the turrets.
As you make adjustments, be sure to maintain a stable shooting position and fire another group of shots after each adjustment. Continue to refine your adjustments until your shots consistently hit your desired zero.
Zeroing the Scope
Sighting in may take more than one trip to the range. As you increase the distance, you may have to make further adjustments. The first step is to align the scope’s crosshairs to the bore of the rifle.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Cleaning Your Scope and Mount
Regular cleaning is essential. Use a soft cloth to wipe away dirt, dust, and debris from the lenses and external surfaces.
Common Problems and Solutions
In time, the screws on the mount may loosen. Periodically check all screws to make sure they are tight. Use a thread locker compound (like Loctite) to keep the screws secure if they are prone to loosening.
Fogging can occur in the scope in certain atmospheric conditions. Some scopes are sealed and purged with inert gas to prevent fogging, but if your scope fogs up, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance.
Accuracy issues can arise. If you have consistent issues with accuracy, make sure that the scope is properly mounted and that the screws are tight. If your scope is malfunctioning, consider sending the scope to a professional for servicing.
Conclusion
Recap of Key Takeaways
Choosing and mounting a side mount scope for your .30-30 can significantly enhance your rifle’s capabilities. The process begins with understanding the different types of side mount systems available. You should then consider factors like durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with your preferred scope. Ultimately, the side mount preserves the top ejection of the .30-30 and lets you experience the benefits of magnified optics.
Equipping your .30-30 with a side mount scope allows you to extend your effective range and enjoy improved accuracy. Consider other articles on the subject, and forum posts, for further information.
Final Thoughts
The .30-30 is a rifle that has a long and storied past. If you choose a side mount, it is likely that you will extend the life and usefulness of the gun. The benefits of magnified optics are undeniable. They allow you to reach out and touch targets in a way that iron sights just can’t. So go ahead and find a side mount and scope that suits your needs and enjoy.
