Need help with CMP 03A4 scope mount

[jdmcomp]

I purchased an 03A4 mount from CMP to allow mounting a M82 scope on one of my repro sniper rifles. I cannot get the front rings to rotate in the mount, at least just using my hands. I have drenched the stud in oil.
CMP has not responded to my inquiry so I am turning to the vast knowledge of this board for advice. What is the best way to get the rings to rotate? Am I completely wrong in thinking they should be easy to turn? All advice is helpful, thanks in advance, John McP

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[LJUTIC]

The ring is not suppose to turn by hand, put a little grease on the bottom portion of ring (dovetail) and install it with the top half of ring installed. Use a 7/8"-1" dia. Wooden round Rod by turning it.

[jdmcomp]

Thanks for the suggestion, but I do think the front ring should be somewhat easy to move due to the gross windage being at the rear ring, which would cause the front ring to rotate when adjusted using the scope body as a lever. I am somewhat afraid that too much binding might damage the scope body. I am hoping someone has had this problem and solved it. Is this your experience or an educated guess. Thanks for the reply. John McP

[LJUTIC]

All dovetail rings work the same was Redfield, Leupold, Burris, and the rear ring when adjusted for windage it turns the scope on the axis of the front ring. If you are concerned with mounting the front ring like I described in my previous post, take the rifle & rings to a gun smith and he will install the front ring like I said.

[ed skeels]

My 03/Weaver 2.5 front mount was excessively "snug".
My fear was that as I moved the rear mount for windage that it would bend or crush the scope tube. Or not adjust at all.
I had to use my scope stand extension (one inch diameter) to roll it into place.
I ended up using some valve grinding compound to lap it in. A few hours later I was comfortable with no "slop" and checked windage movement with a dial indicators (front and rear) for movement.
It's just like buying street rod parts, they are all "bolt on" as long as you have a machine shop.
Hope this helps.
Ed

[ArtPahl]

The Redfield style rings are not supposed to be "easy" to turn. Certainly not with just your fingers. If they do turn easily, they are too worn to be used. With the first turn-in they distort enough to make a sort of crush fit. The maker(s) warn to not use the scope for a lever on the first turn-in. I like the Redfield style mounts and have several dozen on my rifles. My routine is to keep a 1" wood dowel (as has been advised) on my bench and attach the front ring to it and turn the ring in a little past aligned and then back to alignment. Use grease on the dovetail as has been said. If you still do not feel comfortable, twist the ring back and forth a couple of times but don't overdo. I am quite certain you will get similar advice from CMP (if they offer advice on that sort of thing). And, as has been said, you can take your project to a gunsmith and he will do as we have advised here.

[jdmcomp]

Tried a dowel as suggested and with a little pressure it came free. I think there was a lack of lube as well as a small burr on the ring key. It is still quite stiff so I will try working it a bit more. Looks like problem solved thus far. Thanks for all who responded. Now for the hard part, swapping out the scopes.

[Neal Myers]

I am unaware that CMP has ever sold 03A4 mounts. In fact, the 03A4 rifles sold in the 1999 lottery were "Grade A" (with scope mount attached) or "Grade B" (no scope mount).

Neal

[LJUTIC]

I am unaware that CMP has ever sold 03A4 mounts. In fact, the 03A4 rifles sold in the 1999 lottery were "Grade A" (with scope mount attached) or "Grade B" (no scope mount).

Neal

They sell the complete componants to make a 1903a3 a 1903a4 replica. PC03SM $375 + s&h.

[Calif-Steve]

If you look hard you will find lots of stuff for sale. I think this base and the rings are made in China. Not drop in parts at all.