Optical Centre?

[Target Popper]

Basic scope pre-fit checks: Various methods to get OC, from those I have read about the 360 degree spin seems the most reliable and safest to do.
Your views most welcome.

 

[BallisticBill]

360 degree spin is the only way. The mirror method will get you close but it's not 100% reliable as it won't detect misalignment of optical elements, a bent tube, or the objective housing not being perpendicular to the scope axis.
When checking optical centre, try a range of magnifications (if variable) and parallax settings. In cheap scopes, or scopes with defects, you may find the optical centre shifts with these adjustments.

 

[pjgtech]

Or counting clicks/turns or the mirror method.....
Cheers

 

[Bighit]

Spun is the best way . A quick way is the mirror but it is not as accurate.

 

[Lockdown Leatherworks]

I always used the mirror method, didn't even know about the 360 method (although it now seems obvious )

Literally just tried it on one of my spare scopes... so easy... will be using that from now on as well as recommending it to others.

Thanks all

 

[Chris jr]

Glad this subject has come up. I made a double 'V' notched wooden stand years ago. Rotation and adjustment is the only way.

 

[terry1001]

Unless you are going to use micro adjustable mounts is it worth the effort?

 

[Scouty]

Unless you are going to use micro adjustable mounts is it worth the effort?

Still worth it in case you have an issue as simple as swapping the mounts front to back or rotating them. Also starting with a mechanically centered reticle is a good way to decide if you need adjustable mounts and/or a canted rail.

 

[Wing Commander]

^^^^^ This (above).

If you start with the scope centered, it will give a good indication of whether the mounts and/or the rails are straight or squiffy.