I think this might be the way to go. When I'm traveling from point A to B, I can leave the scope off. Once there (up in my tree for example), I can just pop the scope back on. While the scope is off, I'll still be able to line my sights up and the scope's base won't be in the way.

http://www.warnescopemounts.com/steel_bases.html

What are the chances of a black bear running up the tree? Darn, I can't bring my handgun to New York (NY doesn't have a reciprocal agreement Ohio) and I don't think your allowed to even bring a handgun into the state unless you're passing through.