On my Winchester 70 Classic SuperGrade in .30-06 ( what else :-))) I use a Zeiss 6x42 ( 1" tube )with Burris rings/mount. I also have a Swarovski 1.25-4x24 with 30 mm dia. If I mount this with low 30 mm rings, which I have, do I damage the scope tubes if I use this setup as detachable mounts?

The Zeiss tube is alu, the Swarovski could be steel. For turning the front ring up to now I used only a piece of wood. The joint is lubricated with black moly.

Either I glue in the left screw at the rear mount or I use the setup to convert to quick detach, which I also have, from Brownell�s.

What do YOU think: if I moly both front rings, and turn them sometimes, will it eventually damage one or both scopes if I change regularly, turning of course at the scope. ( Or is there any other way, except removing the scope to the top, which necessitates new zeroing, which is not an option ).

Thanks, Hermann

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The type mount with the front rotary dovetail and two rear windage screws is a weak system, prone to wear at the front dovetail if you repeatedly remove and install the scope, plus the rear screws do not support any scope recoil and cause more wear to the front dovetail, which takes all the recoil, especially if it is a large caliber rifle. AND the front ring should be installed by using the special wrench, or a piece of round bar stock that fits the ring, as scope damage can occur. I have replaced many mounts of this type as the front dovetail was worn, causing a shift of bullet impact at the target. And I have seen several cases of the rear windage screws breaking.

Many of you will argue that you have used this type of mount for years with no problems, sure, I have a set on my 30-06. But I have just seen too many problems. And this type mount is not designed as, nor should it be used as, a detachable mount.

So, to answer your question, buy a good set of QD mounts. I use Talley. No problems, even on the 416's and 458's. Realiability is the field is paramount, don't spoil a hunting trip by not investing the $125 or so in a set of good rings & bases. For two scopes this is about $225.

Having tried the method you are describing on my 35 Whelen AI, I found the results unacceptable. The POI was different every time I removed/remounted the scope, and after a months usage the rear ring sheared off where the windage screws attach.

Thanks to all, a clear answer!

I will leave the Zeiss in place as long as there are no problems. I will not mount a second scope on that bases.

I�m sure the bases were screwed and glued in place. How does one remove that? And how�s the look afterwards?

Hermann

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The EAW mounts use the same type of system with the addition of an adjustable base at the rear with a QD lever which works on an eccentric system. The big difference is that the EAWs are heatreated to combat wear and are adjustable. None the less they seldom truly return to zero and are not nearly as good a system as a Talley for instance. From a return to zero standpoint even the Weavers, homely though they may be, are better. Regards, Bill.