Hey guys,

I just updated an article on my web site titled “SEARCHING FOR A COST EFFECTIVE BPCR SCOPE SOLUTION”.  Those of you that are considering a scope may find the information valuable or at least interesting.  It chronicles the research and steps I went through in coming to a decision on a scope for my rifles.  To view the article go to my web site ( (You need to Login or Register to view media files and links)) and click on the articles tab.   

Wayne

Most shooters using this type of scope will set the spring so that it is not working to return to battery. Having the spring in play could result in a large divit in your forehead if used on heavy recoiling rifles. Best for .22 use only.
                                                Best, Roger

Roger,
Hmmmmm, that's an interesting comment.  I had not considered what happens if the scope springs back too quickly.  So what about all those longer and higher-power Unertl scopes which typically are used with the recoil spring.  Am I to understand these are limited to small caliber rifles?  I'm not disagreeing with you, just trying to understand.

Don,
You may be correct about the NRA not allowing the use of the spring, which is my fundamental question, yet to be answered.  And yes, a cut-off date does apply to some extent.  But just like the rifle design cut-off date, current manufactured scopes are legal as long as they are typical of the era.  As with the rifle, the NRA rules say, Replicas thereof, regardless of the origin or manufacture, are permitted as long as they meet the additional stated design and dimensional requirements, which the Unertl Small Game Scope certainly meets without the spring.  So currently manufactured scopes such as MVA, RHO, Leatherwood, etc. are OK with the correct mounts.

By the way, the NRA cut-off date is anything prior to 1896 (not 1898).  You're confusing the NRA rule date with the ATF's date defining antique rifles, which is defined as a firearm manufactured during or prior to 1898.

Wayne

Wayne, My experience is that the big scopes are used for load devolopment and foolin around. All cases that I have seen, and myself will lock the spring back so that it is inop. Wipe the outside of the scope with a light coat of oil so that is free to slide forward. I shoot a 15pwr STS on my 45-70 and got tapped once when the recoil spring was engaged and learned my lesson.
                                                     Best, Roger

The spring will cause off shots perhaps not today or tomorrow but sooner or later you will think it returned to battery but it short stroked instead.  Better to pull it back and feel it go home properly.

As far as Unertils, I gave up BPCS for Schuetzen years ago but from memory it's the click adjustments that keep them out of the game.  Has to have a Vernier as I recall.  DeHorned Unertil Varmints don't have exposed knobs  but still click under the cap.   

I think some Small games are de-horned like a Varmint.  Even if allowed  you would not be able to re-set a de-horned scope in the allowed time changing banks of critters.  Had one, they don't adjust very well, about like a modern hunting scope.

Boats

Forgot to add, that I agree.  No rebound springs can be used for the BPCR or .22 BPCR matches

Guys,
I cover just about everything mentioned including de-clicking a Unertl mount plus a lot more in my article (with pictures too  ) at the following link. 
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What I wasn't sure about was the legality of the recoil spring.  Thanks for answering that question.

Wayne

Last small game I bid on ended up selling for over 500 bucks. Not to me though.

Wish Carlos Hathcock had used a Jap Tasco.

Boats