Let’s Dive into Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models
Rimfire rifles hold a special place in the shooting world. They are fantastic for training, plinking, small game hunting, and introducing new shooters to the sport. However, even the most accurate rifle is limited by the quality of its optics mounting system. That’s where the Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models come into play. These rings promise a secure and reliable platform for mounting your scope without the need for drilling and tapping the receiver, a process that can be intimidating and potentially damaging.
I needed a reliable and low-profile mounting solution for a vintage Marlin Model 60 that I was restoring. The original scope mount was long gone, and I wanted to avoid modifying the rifle’s receiver if possible. The Leupold name carries a lot of weight in the optics world, so these rings immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the solid feel and clean machining of the rings. They have a robust, no-nonsense appearance. The black matte finish is evenly applied and appears durable. The rings felt substantial in hand, which is reassuring.
I also considered the Weaver See-Thru rings and the Burris Signature Zee Rings with Pos-Align Inserts. Ultimately, I chose the Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings because of their reputation for quality and their direct-to-receiver mounting system. The Weaver rings felt a bit flimsy, and while the Burris rings offer adjustability, I wanted a simpler, more streamlined setup.
I was excited to get these rings mounted and see if they lived up to the Leupold name. I hoped they would provide a rock-solid and repeatable mounting solution for my rimfire scope. I also hoped the installation would be as straightforward as promised.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted the Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings on my Marlin Model 60 and attached a Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7×33 scope. I tested the rifle at distances of 25, 50, and 75 yards. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, offering good testing conditions.
The rings were surprisingly easy to install. They clamped securely to the receiver without any slipping or movement. I was genuinely impressed by how firmly they held the scope in place. After zeroing the scope, I fired about 100 rounds of various .22 LR ammunition. The zero remained consistent throughout the session.
The only minor issue I encountered was ensuring the rings were perfectly aligned during installation. I had to take my time and carefully tighten the screws in a cross pattern to avoid any canting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings have proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve taken the rifle on several squirrel hunts and countless trips to the range.
The rings have held up exceptionally well to the rigors of field use. There are no signs of wear and tear on the rings themselves. The matte finish has resisted scratches and scuffs. More importantly, the scope zero has remained consistent, even after being bumped around in my rifle case.
Maintenance is simple. I occasionally wipe them down with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris. They’ve required no special care. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper rimfire rings that constantly came loose, the Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings are a revelation. The peace of mind knowing my scope is securely mounted is worth the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models
Specifications
The Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in feature a 13mm dovetail mount. They are designed to fit rimfire rifles with this dovetail size, such as many Marlin, CZ, and some older Savage models. The 0.84-inch height is measured from the base of the ring to the bottom of the scope tube, classifying these as “low” rings in Leupold’s terminology. They are constructed from lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum, providing strength without adding unnecessary weight to your rifle.
The “No Tap” design eliminates the need to drill and tap the receiver for scope mounting. This is a significant advantage for preserving the original condition of vintage rifles or for those who are not comfortable with gunsmithing. The rings utilize a clamping system that securely attaches to the existing dovetail on the receiver. The rings also include Torx-head screws for secure and reliable tightening, resisting stripping better than standard screws.
The height of the rings is a crucial factor to consider. The product description from Leupold provides excellent guidelines for scope objective size:
- 28-36mm Objective Scopes: will almost always use LOW rings.
- 40mm Objective Scopes: will almost always have enough clearance with LOW rings, though MEDIUM will give more clearance.
- 42-45mm Objective Scopes: will almost always use MEDIUM rings, though some 45mm scopes may require HIGH.
- 50mm Objective Scopes: will almost always use HIGH rings.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings excel in their primary function: securely mounting a scope to a rimfire rifle. The clamping system provides a rock-solid platform that minimizes movement and maintains scope zero. Their straightforward design and ease of installation contribute to a positive user experience.
The low height of these rings is ideal for maintaining a streamlined profile, especially with smaller objective scopes. This can improve cheek weld and overall shooting comfort. One potential area for improvement is the inclusion of some type of recoil stop or indexing feature to further prevent the rings from shifting under heavy recoil. Though unlikely on a .22LR, it’s a feature found in some higher-end rings.
These rings have exceeded my expectations. I was initially concerned that the “No Tap” design might be less secure than a traditional drilled and tapped mount, but these rings have proven me wrong.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings feature a simple and functional design. The matte black finish blends well with most rifles and scopes. The rings are lightweight and do not add noticeable bulk to the rifle.
The smooth edges and rounded corners prevent snagging on clothing or gear. They are surprisingly user-friendly, even for someone with limited experience mounting scopes. The instructions are clear and easy to follow.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality materials and solid construction, these rings should last for many years with proper care. The aircraft-grade aluminum is resistant to corrosion and wear.
Maintaining the rings is as simple as keeping them clean and dry. Periodic inspection of the screws to ensure they are properly tightened is recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings do not come with any additional accessories. The focus is purely on providing a secure mounting platform.
These rings are compatible with any rimfire scope that has a 1-inch tube diameter. There are no specific customization options for the rings themselves, however, Leupold offers a variety of different ring heights to accommodate various scope sizes and rifle configurations. Choosing the correct ring height is essential for optimal performance and cheek weld.
Pros and Cons of Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models
Pros
- No Tap Design: Preserves the original condition of your rifle by eliminating the need for drilling and tapping.
- Secure Mounting: Provides a rock-solid platform for your scope, ensuring consistent zero.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward installation process, even for beginners.
- Lightweight Construction: Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, adding minimal weight to your rifle.
- Leupold** Quality:** Backed by Leupold’s reputation for quality and reliability.
Cons
- Alignment can require patience. Ensuring perfect alignment during installation requires patience and careful tightening.
- Limited Compatibility: Only compatible with rifles that have a 13mm dovetail receiver.
Who Should Buy Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models?
These rings are perfect for:
- Rimfire enthusiasts who want a secure and reliable scope mount without modifying their rifle.
- Owners of vintage or collectible rimfire rifles who want to preserve their original condition.
- Hunters and target shooters who demand consistent accuracy and performance from their rifles.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who need to mount a scope on a rifle that does not have a 13mm dovetail receiver.
- Shooters who require adjustable rings for precise scope alignment (though shims can be used with these rings).
A must-have accessory is a quality torque wrench to ensure the screws are tightened to the correct specifications. This will prevent over-tightening and potential damage to the rings or scope.
Conclusion on Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models
The Leupold RM Rimfire No Tap Rings, 13mm, 0.84in – 1 out of 4 models are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a secure and reliable scope mounting solution for their rimfire rifle. The “No Tap” design is a significant advantage. It allows you to mount a scope without permanently altering your rifle.
At a price of $69.99, the value proposition is strong. These rings are worth the investment for the peace of mind and consistent performance they provide. I would highly recommend these rings to anyone in need of a quality rimfire scope mount.
If you’re tired of scopes that shift and lose zero, these Leupold rings are the solution. Upgrade your rimfire setup today and experience the difference a quality mounting system can make.