If you are a long-range hunter or shooter looking for the best scope rings for long-range shooting, this comprehensive post is for you. Scope rings come in different designs and choosing the right set for your scope is vital for enhancing your shooting precision.
The primary role of scope rings is to hold the scope in a secure manner shot after shot. Since most firearms for long-range shooting scatter fierce recoil, the rings you get should be well-built to withstand the recoil. Moreover, it is paramount for the rings to have the right height that enables the optic to run parallel to the bore line.
The diameter of your scope’s tube will also dictate the scope rings that you get. If you are having a hard time finding the ideal rings for your optic, we are here to lend a hand. In this article, we have put together a roundup of the best scope rings for long-range shooting and attached a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed purchase. But first, here are the benefits of scope rings.
Advantages of Scope Rings for Long-Range Shooting
Scope rings provide a secure mounting and alignment for long-range optics which is essential for accurate shot placement. The other advantages of scope rings for long-range shooting include:
- Improved Stability. Long-range scopes are often large and bulky. Scope rings provide a sturdy and stable platform for the optic, minimizing vibrations and movement caused by recoil no matter the weight of the scope.
- Proper Optical Alignment. A scope that is well-mounted with quality and stable rings will have a proper optical alignment which is vital for achieving accurate shots at extended distances.
- Ease of Customization. You can set the rings to different heights relative to your specific shooting needs and preferences.
- Optimal Eye Relief. The customizable height in scope rings enables shooters to set the eye relief to a most comfortable distance, especially for the eyeglass wearers.
- Compatibility with other Accessories. Most scope rings for long-range shooting can accommodate additional accessories like scope levelers, anti-cant devices, or laser rangefinders to optimize your shooting performance.
Best Scope Rings for Long-Range Shooting
Let’s now delve into the best scope rings for long-range shooting available on the market.
1. Leupold Mark 4 Mounting Rings
Mounting the Leupold Mark 4 Mounting Rings on any long-range scope is quick and straightforward. These scope rings offer the reliable strength shooters demand for long-range applications.
Leupold optics and accessories are built with ruggedness in mind and these mounting rings aren’t any different. They have improved tolerance and unmatched strength thanks to the cross-slot design.
Furthermore, the steel craftsmanship offers superior strength and durability, even with repeated use. On top of that, they feature a matte finish that is anti-reflective and resistant to scratches and rust.
To top off everything else, these mounting rings offer wide compatibility with Leupold PRW bases or any other Picatinny-style mount rails.
Features
- Machined from solid steel
- Anti-reflective matte finish
- Compatible with Picatinny-style mount rails
- Cross-slot design.
Pros
- Quality craftsmanship
- Easy to install
- Lightweight and reliable
Cons
- Pricey
2. Burris Zee Ring Signature 30mm Weaver Style Rifle Scope Rings
Burris Zee Ring Signature 30mm Weaver Style Rifle Scope Rings are built tough to handle the powerful recoil of long-range rifles. It works with standard, dovetail, double-dovetail, or weaver-style bases to attach an optic to the rifle securely.
To complement the wide compatibility, this set of scope rings is built to last. Each ring is crafted from solid steel for maximum durability. Furthermore, there is a matte black finish on the exterior surface that is non-reflective.
These scope rings feature Pos-align inserts that offer a substantial gripping power that is essential for optical alignment. The inserts also offer reliable ruggedness that won’t mar the finish on your scope.
Features
- Proven design that stands the test of time
- Solid steel construction
- Pos-align inserts
- 30mm diameter
- Non-reflective matte finish
Pros
- Sturdy and well-built
- Self-adjusting inserts
- Ease of installation
- Versatile
Cons
- Plastic inserts
3. Vortex Precision Matched Rifle Scope Rings
As one of the best scope rings for long-range shooting, the Vortex Precision Matched Rifle Scope Rings offer the ultimate balance of value and durability. are not any different. They are precision-engineered and kept together to ensure the perfect fit and secure grip for your rifle scope.
These rings have an easy installation process for added convenience. Furthermore, they feature Grade 8 fasteners to keep your scope level and secure where it belongs. With the fasteners, you get a tight tolerance of .0005 which is hard to find with other scope rings.
More importantly, the Vortex Precision Matched Rifle Scope Rings are built to last. They are crafted from 7075 T6 billet aluminum that is resistant to wear and tear. On top of that, they feature a Type III hard coat anodized finish to keep rust, corrosion, and scratches at bay.
Features
- 7075 T6 billet aluminum construction
- Grade 8 fasteners
- Universal gun model
- Type III hard coat anodized finish
- Tight tolerance of .0005
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to mount
- Durable and well-built
4. NightForce XTRM30mm Ring Set
If you are in the market for high-quality scope rings for your NightForce scope, look no further than the XTRM30mm Ring Set. It provides shooters with a reliable mounting system for their long-range optics.
The selling point of this set of rings is their functional handling. They are easy to install and remove from the firearm with no special tools needed. Furthermore, they have a lightweight design to ensure that they don’t add any unwanted bulk to the rifle.
These rings are crafted with durability in mind. They feature a CNC machined 7075-T6 aluminum body and titanium belta series crossbolt, nut, and jaw. This unique selection of high-quality materials and design provides superior strength, uncharacterized of lightweight scope rings.
Above all, these rings are designed and approved for use under the heaviest of recoil conditions.
Features
- Titanium belta series crossbolt, nut, and jaw.
- Hard coat anodized finish
- 7075-T6 aluminum body
- 30mm tube diameter
- Picatinny rail attachment
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Rugged and reliable construction
- Approved for use under heavy recoil conditions
- Excellent fit and finish
Cons
- Big budget
5. Badger Ordnance 34mm Scope Ring
High-quality scope rings like the Badger Ordnance 34mm Scope Rings are built to weather the rigors of shooting activities, including recoil, impacts, and harsh environmental conditions. They feature a 34mm diameter construction that fits most precision rifles with ease.
As one of the best scope rings for long-range shooting, this aftermarket accessory looks as good as it performs. It boasts a hard coat anodized finish that scratchproof, rustproof, and corrosion-resistant.
Moreover, the construction quality is phenomenal. Thanks to the high-quality aluminum design, these rings are durable and tough enough to handle a long day at the range. Besides, they are Mil-spec machined to take in the beating.
Features
- Durable aluminum design
- Picatinny mount type
- 34mm tube diameter
- Hard coat anodized finish
Pros
- Great fit and finish
- Rock-solid construction
- Quick, straightforward installation
- Ideal for heavy recoiling rifles
Cons
- Costly
6. Seekins Precision 30mm Tube Rifle Scope Rings
Our last scope ring recommendation for long-range shooting is Seekins Precision 30mm Tube Rifle Scope Rings. These rings feature an advanced design to revolutionize your mounting system and ensure secure optic attachment to your favorite rifle.
The rough and reliable construction makes it a formidable companion in the shooting range or hunting field. Each ring is made from 7075-T6 aluminum and built to the 1913 Picatinny specification.
Furthermore, these rings feature a center lug machined directly into the bottom. The lug is superior to rings with cross-bolt lug designs so you never have to worry about the fasteners stripping out while being tightened.
In addition to all these features, the Seekins Precision 30mm Tube Rifle Scope Rings are easy to install and have a lightweight construction so they won’t add any bulk to the firearm.
Features
- Serialized pairs
- Slim line clamps
- Grade 8 T25 torx screws
- Center lug machined into place
- Type III Class 2 hard coat anodized finish
- 1913 Picatinny Mil-Spec
- 7075-T6 aluminum construction
- 30mm tube diameter
Pros
- Lightweight
- No lapping needed
- Easy to use
- High construction quality
Cons
- Quality control issues
How to Choose the Best Scope Rings for Long-Range Shooting
Below are the important factors to consider when shopping for the best scope rings for long-range shooting.
Ring Height
Firstly, determine the ideal ring height based on your rifle, the size of the scope, and shooting style. Measure the scopes’ objective lens diameter and add a few millimeters for clearance between the objective bell and the rifle’s barrel or handguard. Moreover, take into consideration the size of your scope’s turrets and the clearance needed for adequate eye relief.
Compatibility
The next thing to consider is compatibility. If the scope rings are not compatible with your scope or rifle, they will be of no value to you. Look at the mounting system of your rifle and ensure that the scope rings you choose are compatible with it. It could be both your rifle’s mounting Picatinny rail, Weaver-style, or a dovetail base mounting system.
Diameter of the Scope
Rifle scopes for long-range shooting vary in diameter. The common tube diameters are 1”, 30mm, and 34mm. The scope rings that you choose to get should have the same diameter as the tube size of your scope.
Construction Quality
The best scope rings for long-range shooting are commonly made from hard-wearing materials like steel or aircraft-grade aluminum. Aircraft-grade aluminum is the lightest of the two. It offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for most hunting and shooting applications. Steel scope rings, on the other hand, are heavier. However, they provide added durability and rigidity than aluminum, which is beneficial for use with heavy-recoiling rifles or in rugged environments.
Recoil Management Features
Long-range hunting and shooting call for a set of scope rings that are built with recoil management features since most of the firearms and cartridges used scatter fierce recoil. Opt for scope rings with multiple recoil management features such as recoil lugs, cross bolts, or integrated recoil shoulders. These features are essential as they help prevent the scope from shifting under recoil therefore maintaining zero and ensuring consistent accuracy shot after shot.
Installation
It is also important to pay attention to the installation process of the scope rings. Whether you are a veteran or a newcomer in the firearms world, you will want a set of scope rings that has quick and straightforward installation and detach capabilities. It is also wise to get scope rings whose installation process requires basic tools and includes clear instructions.
Budget
The price of the best scope rings for long-range shooting varies from one aftermarket product to the other. We recommend investing in quality scope rings from reputable brands that pay off in the long run, in terms of performance, durability, and peace of mind. However, if you have a tight budget, there are plenty of quality and budget-friendly scope rings for long-range shooting available out there.
FAQs
- Can I use the same scope rings for multiple rifles and scopes?
While it’s possible to interchange scope rings between different rifles and scopes, it’s important to ensure compatibility to prevent issues such as improper fit or alignment. Switching the scope rings frequently requires re-zeroing your scope each time, which can be tedious, time-consuming, and inconvenient.
- What scope rings are ideal for long-range shooting?
The ideal scope rings for long-range shooting are those that secure your optic security to the firearm. The rings should provide a stable platform for the specific scope, ensuring correct alignment, stability, and accuracy, especially at long distances.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article has been insightful and of great help to you. Remember that the diameter of your scope’s tube plays a vital role in determining the type of rings that you get. Durability, ease of installation, and recoil resistance also play a role in your decision-making process. Whatever you have in mind, there are scope rings out there for you.