EXD Engineering Vertical Reticle Instrument: a review

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echo3mike

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Some tranisitional phase my therapist keeps talkin
One issue that arises when mounting a scope yourself is knowing if the reticle is level and aligned with the bore center. EXD Engineering has created a gadget to help with this daunting task.

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The device is fabricated in two aluminum parts; the smaller part has a bubble level mounted within to insure the device, and ultimately the rifle / scope combination, is level. By placing the longer portions v-block end onto the barrel, the device is then placed in front of the scope and the v-block of the smaller part is placed on the loosely mounted scope.

Now slowly tilt the firearm slightly from side to side until the bubble is centered exactly between the calibration marks of the level vial. Then view the vertical reference line (highlighted by author) you have chosen through the scope. If the vertical crosshair of the reticle is not perfectly parallel with the vertcal reference line the scope body must be rotated slightly and these steps repeated again.

In essence, what this tool does is insure that the scope is aligned with the barrel axis relative to the holes drilled into the reciever. While this might not be a problem for the occasional shooter and hunter, serious competitors and those who rely on a well constructed "working" rifle should be aware of any misalignment of their mounts and take the necessary steps to correct this. Although this device can assist in the detection of this malady and help with obtaining a level scope reticle, it's merits are lacking.

Most of the astute readers here at THR will notice the above highlighted phrase Vertical Reference Line . The examples given in the instructions are

Good: door edge, window jamb

Better: line scribed w/ a carpenters level

Best: a string under tension from a freely suspended weight.

This fairly common practice will give an accurate assesment of a level reticle and has for a very long time sans benefit of any additional device. In fact, it's really all you'll need to do the job right. Just make sure that the reticle stays level during the tightening and you're home free. No fuss, no muss and the additional $35 can go toward ammo and range fees (my favorite accessories).

The Vertcal Reticle Instrument is not without merit. If the shooter lacks a specified, level work station (such as a gun vice) this device can be of some benefit. By placing the device onto the butt of the rifle, it can allow the shooter to obtain a level rifle from which to begin his mounting or gunsmithing. A slightly redeeming factor.

CONCLUSION

The Vertical Reticle Instrument from EXD Engineering can be of some assistance in mounting a scope properly... if the shooter lacks other more appropriate equipment. It's probably in the shooter's best interest to utilize common practices to mount his scope and invest the price of this gadget in a sturdy, level gun rest / vice which has infinitely more uses.

S.
 
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