Ar-15 Scope Ring Height Calculator
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Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team
Proper scope ring height is crucial for accurate shooting. This calculator helps you determine the correct height for your AR-15 rifle based on your eye relief and desired point of aim.
What is AR-15 scope ring height?
AR-15 scope ring height refers to the vertical position of the scope rings relative to the rifle's action. Proper ring height ensures that your point of aim aligns with your eye position, allowing for consistent and accurate shooting.
Important Note
Scope ring height is different from scope elevation. Ring height affects the vertical position of the scope, while elevation adjusts the scope's angle.
The ideal scope ring height varies based on individual anatomy and shooting style. Most shooters find that a ring height between 1.5 and 2 inches above the action provides a comfortable and accurate shooting position.
How to calculate AR-15 scope ring height
Calculating the correct scope ring height involves several factors, including your eye relief, desired point of aim, and rifle configuration. Here's the standard formula used in our calculator:
Formula
Scope Ring Height = (Eye Relief × 0.75) + (Desired Point of Aim - 1.5)
This formula accounts for the relationship between eye relief and the vertical position of the scope. The 0.75 multiplier is based on average human anatomy, while the 1.5-inch adjustment provides a comfortable shooting position.
Example Calculation
Let's say you have an eye relief of 3.5 inches and want your point of aim to be 2 inches above the action. Using our formula:
Example
Scope Ring Height = (3.5 × 0.75) + (2 - 1.5) = 2.625 + 0.5 = 3.125 inches
This means you should set your scope rings to approximately 3.125 inches above the action for a comfortable and accurate shooting position.
Factors to consider
- Eye relief: The distance from your eye to the scope's objective lens
- Desired point of aim: Where you want your crosshairs to be relative to the action
- Rifle configuration: Some rifles have different mounting points for scopes
- Shooting style: Different shooting positions may require different ring heights
| Eye Relief (inches) | Recommended Ring Height (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3.0 | 2.5 | Standard for most shooters |
| 3.5 | 3.0 | Comfortable for taller shooters |
| 4.0 | 3.5 | Best for long-range shooting |
Common mistakes
Many shooters make these common errors when setting up their scope ring height:
- Ignoring eye relief: Using a one-size-fits-all ring height without considering individual eye relief
- Over-adjusting: Making too many small adjustments instead of finding the optimal position
- Neglecting rifle configuration: Not accounting for different scope mounting points on different rifles
- Assuming one size fits all: Using the same ring height for different shooting positions
Pro Tip
Always test your scope ring height with a known distance target before using it in competition or for hunting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my eye relief?
Eye relief can be measured by placing a ruler against the scope's objective lens and measuring the distance from your eye to the lens. Most scopes have eye relief markings on the side.
What if my calculated ring height doesn't feel right?
If the calculated height doesn't feel comfortable, try adjusting it slightly and testing with a target. Your comfort and accuracy should guide the final adjustment.
Can I use this calculator for other rifles?
While this calculator is designed for AR-15 rifles, the principles can be applied to other rifles with some adjustments for different scope mounting points.