mounting red dot on ruger ar 556,Mounting a Red Dot on Ruger AR 556: A Comprehensive Guide

Mounting a Red Dot on Ruger AR 556: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking to enhance your Ruger AR 556 with a red dot sight? Mounting a red dot sight can significantly improve your accuracy and speed in target acquisition. In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through the process of mounting a red dot sight on your Ruger AR 556, covering everything from choosing the right sight to the actual installation process.

Choosing the Right Red Dot Sight

Before you start mounting a red dot sight on your Ruger AR 556, it’s crucial to choose the right one. Here are some factors to consider:

Size and Weight: Ensure the red dot sight is compatible with your Ruger AR 556’s rail system. Check the weight and size to ensure it doesn’t affect the balance of your rifle.
Adjustments: Look for a sight with easy-to-use windage and elevation adjustments. This will allow you to make quick adjustments on the fly.
Reticle: Choose a reticle that suits your needs. Some popular options include the dot, circle, and dot-with-circle reticles.
Material: Ensure the sight is made of durable materials to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Some popular red dot sights for the Ruger AR 556 include the Aimpoint Micro T1, Burris FastFire II, and Leupold DeltaPoint Pro.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin the installation process, gather the following tools and materials:

Red dot sight
Mounting base
Mounting screws
Allen wrench
Gun cleaning cloth
Clamp or vise

Preparation

Before mounting the red dot sight, ensure your Ruger AR 556 is unloaded and the magazine is removed. Clean the rifle and the mounting area to remove any dirt or debris. This will help prevent any issues during the installation process.

Mounting the Red Dot Sight

Follow these steps to mount the red dot sight on your Ruger AR 556:

Attach the Mounting Base: Place the mounting base on the Picatinny rail of your Ruger AR 556. Ensure it is properly aligned and secure it using the mounting screws. Tighten the screws with the Allen wrench, but be careful not to overtighten them.
Attach the Red Dot Sight: Place the red dot sight on the mounting base. Ensure it is properly aligned and secure it using the included mounting screws. Again, tighten the screws with the Allen wrench, but be careful not to overtighten them.
Adjust the Sight: Once the red dot sight is mounted, adjust the windage and elevation turrets to zero in on your target. This may require some trial and error, so take your time to get it right.
Test the Sight: After adjusting the sight, take your Ruger AR 556 to a shooting range and test the red dot sight. Ensure it is functioning properly and that the reticle is clear and bright.