Understanding the Savage 110 Receiver and Mounting Systems
Common Mounting System Types
Before diving into the specifics of scope mounts, it’s crucial to understand the Savage 110 receiver itself. While the core concept of a bolt-action rifle remains constant, Savage has produced various models and generations of the 110 over the years. These different iterations can sometimes feature subtle differences in receiver design. Understanding these variances is important as they can affect mounting compatibility.
The receiver of a Savage 110 is the heart of the rifle, the structural backbone that houses the bolt, barrel, and trigger mechanism. The top of the receiver, where the scope mount attaches, is typically pre-drilled and tapped with holes designed to accept scope bases. The placement and spacing of these holes are crucial, forming the pattern that the scope mount will utilize to attach to the rifle. Familiarize yourself with your specific Savage 110 model to be certain of the correct hole pattern before selecting a mount.
Several common mounting systems are used on Savage 110 rifles. These systems are the pathways through which you affix your chosen optic.
One popular mounting option is the Picatinny rail. Picatinny rails are characterized by their distinctive rectangular slots running along the length of the rail. This design allows for a highly versatile and secure mounting platform. The consistent spacing of the slots makes it easy to attach a wide range of accessories, including scopes, red dot sights, and other optics. Savage 110 scope mount options in Picatinny configurations are frequently chosen due to their robustness and adaptability. However, the Picatinny rail may slightly elevate the optic compared to other systems, requiring a higher mount.
Another prevalent choice is the Weaver rail. While resembling the Picatinny rail in form, Weaver rails feature slots that are slightly narrower, and the spacing between them may vary. The slightly different dimensions of the Weaver rail mean that, while some accessories are compatible between both systems, some Picatinny accessories will not fit a Weaver rail. However, like the Picatinny rail, Weaver mounts are often regarded as durable and capable. The differences in slot spacing are important, so check if the particular Weaver mounting system is compatible.
Direct mount systems, while less common on the Savage 110, sometimes exist. These types of mounting solutions eliminate the need for separate scope bases, directly attaching the rings or mount to the receiver. This can offer a slightly lower profile and streamlined look. They are, however, often model-specific, and if you ever want to change scope, it is more likely that you will have to take everything apart.
Understanding the screw hole patterns on your Savage 110 receiver is paramount for selecting a compatible scope mount. These hole patterns dictate the design of the scope mount base that will attach to your rifle. If you’re uncertain about the specific pattern of your rifle, consult your owner’s manual, or measure the distance between the mounting holes and cross-reference them with common base patterns. Many online resources provide detailed schematics and measurements to simplify this process. Mismatched patterns will render a scope mount unusable.
Factors Guiding Your Scope Mount Selection
Several critical factors influence the selection of the ideal Savage 110 scope mount. Understanding these elements will help ensure that your chosen mount meets your specific needs.
The size of your scope’s objective lens (the front lens) plays a critical role in determining the necessary mount height. A larger objective lens will require a higher mount to clear the barrel and allow the scope to sit at a comfortable height for aiming. Failure to account for the objective lens diameter can result in a scope that sits too low, touching the barrel, or too high, making it challenging to achieve a comfortable cheek weld. Carefully consider the size of your scope’s front lens when considering mount height.
Mount height is the vertical distance between the rifle’s receiver and the center of the scope’s tube. This is directly related to the overall shooting experience, including comfort and the quality of your cheek weld. Finding the right balance of mount height and cheek weld is vital for accurate shooting. The ideal mount height enables you to comfortably position your cheek on the stock for proper eye alignment with the scope’s reticle. Too low, and you might strain your neck; too high, and you will struggle to get the correct cheek weld. Three primary mount height categories are typically identified: low, medium, and high. Select a height that, based on your scope’s objective size, ensures proper cheek weld.
The material used in the construction of a scope mount significantly affects its durability and overall performance. Aluminum alloys are a common choice, offering a good balance of weight and strength, while also being relatively affordable. Steel scope mounts, known for their superior strength, are often preferred for rifles that experience heavy recoil, such as those chambered for larger calibers. The added weight of steel may be a consideration for some shooters. Evaluate the materials’ inherent qualities.
The scope mount must be compatible with both your scope and the Savage 110 receiver. The scope’s tube diameter (typically one inch or thirty millimeters) is crucial. The mount rings must be designed to securely hold your scope’s tube. Compatibility with the receiver is also critical. Verify the pattern of the screw holes, and you have to be sure the mount is specifically designed for the Savage 110 or is compatible with its receiver design. An incompatible mount will be useless.
The Savage 110 is known for handling a variety of cartridges, and some of these cartridges generate significant recoil. A scope mount must be able to withstand the repeated impact of recoil without shifting, loosening, or failing. Strong, durable materials, along with a robust design, are essential for a mount that can handle the punishing forces.
Your budget is a practical factor when selecting a scope mount. The price range for mounts varies widely, from affordable entry-level options to high-end, precision-engineered models. Consider your budget alongside your shooting needs. Determine what quality you need to accomplish your shooting objectives and match your spending accordingly.
Finally, consider the ease of installation. Look for scope mounts with straightforward mounting procedures and included instructions. Proper installation is critical for ensuring the scope mount’s security and maintaining accuracy.
Different Types of Scope Mounts for the Savage 110
Several designs of Savage 110 scope mounts are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
One-piece scope mounts integrate the base and the rings into a single unit. This design is highly rigid, providing excellent stability and alignment between the scope and the rifle. One-piece mounts are often preferred for demanding applications, such as long-range shooting or hunting with high-recoil rifles. However, it’s crucial that the mounting holes on the receiver are properly aligned.
Two-piece scope mounts, which consist of separate bases and rings, provide more flexibility in mounting the scope. This design allows the shooter to adjust the position of the rings along the receiver, offering more adjustment. Two-piece mounts are frequently chosen for general-purpose hunting rifles and are often easier to install than their one-piece counterparts. However, they may offer less inherent rigidity than one-piece mounts.
Many shooters turn to Evolution Gun Works (EGW) for quality and reliable Savage 110 mounts. EGW is a well-regarded manufacturer. Their scope mounts are often crafted from high-quality materials and designed for excellent performance and reliability. They are a popular and dependable option for many Savage 110 owners.
While specific brand recommendations are best researched based on your individual requirements, a few brands consistently receive positive reviews for their quality and dependability. Leupold, Warne, and Burris are known for their premium scope mounts that are crafted for strength and accuracy.
Guiding Your Installation Process
Installing a Savage 110 scope mount correctly is just as important as selecting the right one. Here are the steps for installing your scope mount, bearing in mind that specific models may have slightly different instructions.
Gather the necessary tools. You will typically need a torque wrench (essential), a set of Allen wrenches or a Torx bit set, a level, and perhaps a gun vise to help stabilize the rifle.
Begin by cleaning the receiver’s mounting holes to eliminate any debris or oil. Attach the base to the receiver, ensuring the mounting screws align with the holes. Install the mounting screws and tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications using a torque wrench. Over-tightening or under-tightening the screws can be detrimental. Always consult the manufacturer’s specifications.
Next, place your scope in the rings. Position the scope for proper eye relief (the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece). Use a level to ensure the scope is level with the rifle. Tighten the ring screws.
Maintaining the correct torque when tightening all screws is critical. Over-tightening can damage the threads of the receiver or the scope itself, while under-tightening can lead to the scope shifting under recoil. Consult the mount manufacturer’s specifications for proper torque values, and utilize a torque wrench to achieve accurate tightness.
After installation, verify your scope is level and aligned with the rifle. A level will ensure the reticle (the crosshairs) are properly oriented. Properly leveling the scope is important for accuracy.
Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your Scope Mount
Regular maintenance and troubleshooting will keep your Savage 110 scope mount in top condition and maximize its longevity.
Periodically inspect the scope mount for any signs of wear or damage. Clean the mount and scope rings. Check the mounting screws to ensure they remain securely tightened. Apply a small amount of thread locker (Loctite) to the screws to prevent them from loosening over time.
If you experience issues with your scope, such as a shifting zero or the scope losing its point of impact, the scope mount may be the source of the problem. Loosening screws are the most common problem. Use a torque wrench to ensure the mounting screws are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. Verify that the scope rings are properly tightened and that the scope tube is not damaged. If you’re experiencing accuracy problems, consider re-zeroing your scope after any maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Savage 110 scope mount is a critical step for any rifle owner, impacting both the user experience and shooting success. Consider the receiver type, the scope’s objective lens size, mount height, materials, and compatibility. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a scope mount that enhances your rifle’s performance and supports your shooting goals. By understanding the different mount types, installation procedures, and maintenance practices, you can ensure a secure, reliable, and accurate setup. Always research and carefully measure your receiver and other parameters.
Remember, investing in a quality scope mount is an investment in your shooting future. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice from a gunsmith if you’re unsure about any aspect of the selection or installation process. Choose wisely, and enjoy the increased accuracy and performance that a properly mounted scope provides.
