RE: NOOB Question on Mounting Scope
Just make sure the bases and rings you buy are compatible with your rifle and your scope tube diameter. I would say this, quality mounts/rings are worth the price. I'll pay 50 or morerather than 20.
Mounting a scope is not hard to do, assuming you know how you like a rifle tofit you.Some guys need high mounts, others medium, or low. I generally like low mounts to get my face on the stock.
Get the scope in the rings with the screws just tight enough to hold it in place, slide forward or back for proper eye relief, and thenmake sure your crosshairs are vertical/horizontal. There are tools for this, but it can be done by eye too. Tighten the screws equally, a turn at a time or so until they are tight. Some use lok-tite, the kind that is meant to be able to break free if you want to remove the scope. That's about it for mounting.
Bore sighting is easy too. You can do that anywhere. Once at the range, your first shots should befrom about 25 yds. Don't waste bullets shooting groups. Shoot one shot and adjust, as long as you feel good about the shot.Adjust the scope to hit point of aim at 25 yds, but again don't be fussy at 25 yds.Once you're close to point of aim at 25 yds,sight in at 100. Generally, 2-3" high at 100 yds is optimal for most hunting calibers.
If you plan to shoot long distances, like over 200, be sure to verify your trajectory by shooting, not reading charts.