What Is Best Bell Clearance From Barrel?

[iSnipe]

I have some scope rings that look better suited for a 50mm bell. Right now
I mounted a VX-II 3-9x40mm on one of my .243's. I noticed right away the
extra clearance from the bottom of the bell to the top of the barrel. I always
thought it's best to have the bell close to the barrel, than further away.

Currently the distance from the closest part of the bell to the top of the barrel
is approx. 3/8" of an inch. It looks excessive to me.

What are the primary thoughts behind how far the bell should be from the
barrel?

How does it affect accuracy? Is there a disadvantage to having the bell too far
away from the barrel?

Do you feel this is suitable enough? Or do you think I should get the next size
shorter?

Thanks,

iSnipe

 

[Dr. Vette]

I'll let others comment on the accuracy question, but I'd want to bring it down because I don't want to lift my head the extra 3/8 inch to look through the scope. My preference is to mount as low as possible so that I can get a good cheek-to-stock position.

 

[FEENIX]

I'll let others comment on the accuracy question, but I'd want to bring it down because I don't want to lift my head the extra 3/8 inch to look through the scope. My preference is to mount as low as possible so that I can get a good cheek-to-stock position.

+1. Close as you can but enough clearance (most of mine are ~ 1/4" or less) to allow scope and barrel flex during recoil.

YouTube - high-speed video of scope and barrel flexing on a 50BMG

Good luck.

Ed

 

[johnnyk]

Unless you have an adjustable cheek piece, it's best to get the scope as low and you can without touching the barrel. You'll get a more consistent cheek weld on your stock and the parallex won't become a big factor. I think higher scopes also contribute more error when/if any cant is involved. The lack of parralex and cant will contribute to more consistent accuracy. JohnnyK.

 

[KRP]

The best clearance is whatever is necessary for your face/eye to fit your rifle/scope. Maybe your Mr. Ed's cousin and need 4" of clearance between the barrel and scope...if it fits it fits regardless of what the actual clearance is.

 

[iSnipe]

I've always found it advantageous to hold back my own opinions on a subject by letting go of what I think I know so I can be more acceptive of other opinions... and not to restrict others from sharing their own. It helps not cloud a difference of opinion and remain open to the possibility what I think I know, can be improved upon. While I think I know much about it, I learn regardless if I keep on asking questions. Your answers are about on par with what I thought, so at least I am in the ballpark of knowing that much. My first impression was it is a "tad" high because I didn't feel a good stock weld. The extra 1/4" makes a difference and I felt it.

Thanks,

iSnipe

 

[Don Ward]

A quick way to check eye alignment during set-up is to shoulder the rifle from your common real shooting position (sitting or prone for me) with only the rings on (no scope). Get your cheek weld where it should be and then look through the rings. The front ring should be centered in the rear ring visually.

 

[FEENIX]

My first impression was it is a "tad" high because I didn't feel a good stock weld. The extra 1/4" makes a difference and I felt it.

... and that's what really matters and count, "your cheek weld", esp. if you can keep it consistent.

Happy safe shooting/hunting.

Ed