r/gunsmithing • u/Alarming-Plankton215 • 2d ago

Plumb Bob Best Scope Leveling Method??

I’ve used just about everything (spirit levels, Arisaka leveling tool, feeler gauges, eyeballing it, etc.). Currently mounting an older MK4 that was visibly off when using the Arisaka leveler due to the shape of the body. Is a plumb bob and flashlight my best bet or is there something more reliable? I know nothing is ever truly perfect but I wanna get as close as possible.

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1

u/skwerks 2d ago

I’ll follow this. I have been looking for the best way but haven’t tried a plumb bob yet. I have also just not found a reliable way to level my rifles either

1

u/Alarming-Plankton215 2d ago

Tipton Ultra Gun Vise

2

u/cool_-_hand 1d ago

Hey, professional gunsmith here.

I use a small, magnetic bubble level to level the firearm in the in a pattern makers vice with wood jaws and a piece of leather to prevent scratching. I use the scope base or rail as my reference. I then mount my optic and level the optic using the top turret.

While it’s still in the vice, i boresight it.

I’ve tried most of the tools and techniques out there. This is what i have found to be the fastest and most accurate method.

1

u/TacTurtle 1d ago

Is the top of your receiver square and level with the stock?