Tips & Techniques: “Take Out The Slack” To Keep Accessories In Place

by
posted on May 8, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
take-up-the-slack.jpg

We all know that when a firearm recoils, it moves rearward. But what about accessories such as optics that are mounted on it? Unless firmly anchored, they will tend to migrate forward under recoil because they are essentially remaining stationary as the gun moves the opposite direction beneath them. That can cause damage to the accessory and/or hardware and change to the gun’s zero. So, when mounting accessories, press scope rings and other mounts fully forward in their slots before tightening the fastening hardware. That way, when the gun recoils, everything will move together solidly as one.

Latest

EDC handguns
EDC handguns

Honest EDC: A Realistic Assessment of Your Concealed Carry Kit

The problem is not that most concealed-carry loadouts are bad. The problem is that most concealed-carry kits are never re-examined against reality.

The Rideout Arsenal Dragon: Thinking Way Outside The Box

Over the years, many designers have attempted to use a low-bore axis to result in a flat-shooting pistol. One of these attempts, the Rideout Arsenal Dragon, is now more than a concept. It’s on the market.

The Armed Citizen® June 8, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Inside Today's Super-Short Riflescopes: What You Gain & What You Lose

Several new "super-short" riflescopes have hit the market recently, and they've become popular. But what are you giving up in these compact dimensions...and what are you gaining?

Pro Shop: 5 Must-Have Accessories For Your Silencers

Suppressors are hot—in more than one sense of the word. Here are five extra accessories that will make silenced shooting a whole lot easier and more enjoyable.

Storm on the Horizon: US Palm's Storm Cat4 Rifles & Pistols

Known primarily for its line of AK-platform accessories, this year, US Palm branched out with a full line of AR-style rifles and pistols, all of which have a unique feature set.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.