Maintaining tension

I have been told that I need to keep my stock and scope screws at the correct torque setting for best accuracy. What is this and how do I achieve it?

Tightening rifle and scope screws to hold or grip an item securely can greatly influence the way a rifle performs. To maintain correct tension on the screws, I use the Brock and Norris adjustable torque driver. The simple tool uses the standard hex bits used in most power tools at home.

First, separate the two pieces of the hex tool holder and locate one of the six available holes in the torque driver handle. Each represents 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 or 50in/lb settings.

Next, decide on the torque setting for your rifle. For example, you need 15lb-20lb for scope screws, so use the 25lb setting or 30lb torque for scope bases. For rifle stock screws in a wood or fibreglass stock use 40lb or up to 50lb for bedded stocks with synthetic materials (aluminium requires less torque).

Now, place the hex bit in the screw you are tightening and hold the torque driver only by the grey handle. When the desired torque setting is reached the handle disengages and rotates 90° so no more force is exerted and the exact torque setting is reached.

Norman Clark Gunsmiths also sells the Wheeler torque setter, which is a more typical ratchettype torque wrench. BP