Understanding the Savage Mark II and Scope Mounting Essentials
Introduction
From backyard plinking to competitive target shooting, the Savage Mark II .22LR rifle has earned a reputation for accuracy and affordability. This versatile rimfire firearm has become a favorite for both seasoned shooters and those just starting their shooting journey. Achieving its full potential, however, relies on more than just the rifle itself. A crucial piece of the puzzle is the scope mounting system – specifically, the scope base. The proper scope base acts as the essential foundation for your optic, directly impacting your accuracy, reliability, and overall shooting experience.
This article dives deep into the world of scope bases for the Savage Mark II .22LR, offering a comprehensive guide to understanding your options, choosing the right one for your needs, and ensuring a secure and accurate setup. We’ll explore various types of bases, essential considerations, and step-by-step installation tips, empowering you to optimize your Savage Mark II for peak performance.
Brief Overview of the Savage Mark II .22LR Rifle
The Savage Mark II .22LR is a bolt-action rifle renowned for its inherent accuracy and budget-friendly price point. Its lightweight design, combined with the relatively low recoil of the .22LR cartridge, makes it a pleasure to shoot for extended periods. The rifle typically features a simple yet effective design, often incorporating a blued steel barrel and a synthetic or wood stock. Savage has produced numerous variations of the Mark II over the years, including models with heavy barrels, different stock configurations, and various aesthetic finishes.
Importance of a Good Scope Base
The selection of a quality scope base is often underestimated, yet it is incredibly important. It’s the critical link between your rifle and the optic that you’ll rely on to achieve accuracy. A poorly chosen or improperly installed base can lead to a host of problems, from inconsistent shot placement to complete frustration. A well-mounted optic is capable of delivering consistent and precise hits downrange, while a poorly mounted one can ruin a perfectly good rifle.
Scope Base Terminology
When selecting a scope base, understanding some core terminology is vital. This starts with the concept of Minutes of Angle, commonly known as MOA. MOA is a unit of angular measurement that describes the amount your point of impact will shift at a given distance, with one MOA equaling approximately one inch at one hundred yards. This is the basis of scope adjustment and zeroing.
The other critical element is the rail type. A scope base provides a platform to attach your scope rings and ultimately secure your optic to your rifle. Different rail types offer varying levels of compatibility and ease of use.
The final and often-overlooked consideration is the eye relief of your optic. This is the distance between your eye and the scope’s ocular lens that allows you to see a full, clear sight picture. Proper eye relief is critical for comfort, safety, and preventing scope bite (the uncomfortable sensation of the scope impacting your eyebrow during recoil, though less of a concern for the .22LR).
Exploring Different Base Options
Picatinny Rails
Multiple scope base designs are available for the Savage Mark II .22LR, each offering unique characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses. The best choice depends on your intended use and specific needs.
Picatinny rails, the most prevalent rail system in the firearms world, provide a highly versatile mounting platform. They are characterized by a series of evenly spaced slots along the top surface, providing a standardized mounting system for a vast array of accessories. Picatinny rails offer numerous advantages, including exceptional versatility. They accommodate nearly all Picatinny-compatible scope rings and other accessories like red dot sights, lasers, and lights. Their robust construction ensures a stable and reliable platform for your optic, capable of withstanding the rigors of various shooting applications. The standardization inherent in the Picatinny system provides excellent compatibility. The only real drawback to the Picatinny rail is that it might necessitate the use of adapters to mount some scope rings, though Picatinny-specific rings are widely available.
Weaver Rails
Weaver rails offer an alternative, often more cost-effective, mounting option. They share some design similarities with Picatinny rails, but they are typically less standardized, with different slot configurations between manufacturers. Weaver rails are often readily available and represent a budget-friendly solution for mounting your optic. However, their lack of full standardization might mean some Weaver accessories are not compatible with others. Weaver rails also potentially offer less flexibility in the long run.
Dedicated Savage Mark II Scope Bases
Some scope bases are purpose-built specifically for the Savage Mark II. These bases are often designed to integrate seamlessly with the receiver, offering a potentially easier installation process. These dedicated bases often offer a precise fit and can provide a more streamlined appearance on the rifle. However, they may limit your upgrade options in the future if you decide to change your optic or shooting style.
Integrated Rail Systems
Certain Savage Mark II models are supplied with an integrated rail system. This can be a significant advantage, as it simplifies the mounting process. Check if your specific model has an integrated rail before purchasing an aftermarket base. This integrated system is typically easy to use.
Assessing Your Needs
In assessing your needs for mounting your scope, begin with your budget, scope requirements, and the intended use of your rifle. Will it be primarily used for plinking, or are you aiming for precision target shooting? Knowing these variables will greatly streamline the selection process.
Making the Right Selection: Your Personalized Guide
Shooting Applications
Carefully considering your shooting activities will help you determine your optic and base needs. This could be recreational shooting, small-game hunting, or competition. Each application might benefit from a different optic and scope base combination. Target shooters, for example, might benefit from a scope with higher magnification and a base that allows for precise adjustments. Hunters will want a scope base and optic that are suitable for the environment and intended use.
Material
Material composition greatly impacts the performance and durability of a scope base. Aluminum bases offer a lightweight and cost-effective option, ideal for many applications. Steel bases, on the other hand, are generally stronger and more resistant to wear and tear, making them a good choice for more demanding use cases.
Construction Quality
The quality of construction also plays a vital role. A base made from high-quality materials and manufactured with precision will provide a more stable and reliable platform. Pay attention to the finish of the base, as this affects its durability and resistance to corrosion. Look for bases with smooth surfaces and well-defined edges.
Mounting Hardware
The hardware used to mount the base and scope rings is crucial. Ensure the screws and fasteners are of good quality and properly sized for the rifle’s receiver. Additionally, look for a scope base that allows for the correct placement of your scope rings.
Adjustability
Consider the degree of adjustability offered by the scope base. A base with built-in MOA cant can help compensate for bullet drop at longer ranges, enhancing your accuracy. Be mindful of the cant angle, as too much might interfere with close-range shooting.
Installing Your New Scope Base
Required Tools
Proper installation is just as important as selecting the right scope base. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and use the correct tools to ensure a secure and accurate setup.
The tools required for installation are generally very accessible. You’ll likely need screwdrivers, ideally those with the correct bit size, a torque wrench (highly recommended but not strictly necessary), cleaning supplies, and threadlocker.
Step-by-step Installation
Before beginning the installation, make sure your rifle is unloaded and the action is open.
Carefully clean the receiver’s top surface to remove any oil, grease, or debris. This ensures a good fit between the base and the receiver.
Carefully align the scope base with the receiver holes. Secure the base to the receiver using the appropriate screws and hardware.
If you have a torque wrench, tighten the screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Over-tightening can damage the screws or receiver, while under-tightening can lead to instability.
If the base manufacturer recommends using threadlocker on the screws, apply a small amount to the threads before tightening. This helps prevent the screws from loosening over time due to vibrations.
Avoiding Mistakes
Avoid some common installation mistakes. Over-tightening screws is a common culprit, as is misalignment. Ensure proper alignment of the base before tightening. Take your time and double-check everything.
Scope Ring Considerations
Importance of Scope Rings
Scope rings are the link between the scope base and your optic. Like a scope base, selecting the right rings contributes directly to the overall effectiveness of your setup. Ring height is an important consideration. The proper height will allow your scope to clear the rifle’s barrel and action, without being so high that it negatively impacts your cheek weld.
Ring Height Calculation
Choosing the appropriate ring height often involves calculation. You’ll need to know the diameter of your scope’s objective lens, the width of the barrel, and the height of your scope base. Use online calculators or measuring tools to assist with this process.
Ring Type Selection
The type of rings also matter. They need to match the rail system and the tube diameter of your optic. Ensure that the rings are made from high-quality materials that resist stress and corrosion.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your scope base and ensure optimal performance. Periodically inspect the screws for tightness and check the base for signs of damage. Clean the base as needed and keep the mounting hardware free of debris.
Common Issues
Common issues can occur. Loose screws are easily remedied by tightening them. Misalignment can also be rectified with proper installation techniques. Damage to the base can be prevented with a high-quality base and care during use.
Investing in a good scope base, installing it correctly, and maintaining it properly will help guarantee that your optic remains stable and accurate for many years.
Conclusion
The choice of a Savage Mark II .22LR scope base is a vital decision that directly influences your shooting experience. Understanding the available options, considering your specific needs, and installing the base correctly are the cornerstones of an effective setup. From Picatinny rails to purpose-built bases, the options are vast.
Remember to prioritize quality, compatibility, and proper installation techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, by taking the time to research and select the right scope base, you’ll unlock the full potential of your Savage Mark II, enhancing your accuracy and enjoyment on the range or in the field.
Don’t delay any further! Select your perfect scope base today and experience the difference a solid foundation makes.
Resources
Visit websites such as Brownells, MidwayUSA, and other reputable firearms retailers to browse Savage Mark II scope base options. Numerous online guides and videos also offer additional installation guidance and tips. Furthermore, forums and online communities dedicated to the Savage Mark II can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
