Removing scope screws

W

Weasel-UT

New member
I've got to remove a scope from a used rifle and I can't get the ring screws out. I have no idea what was used on the threads. I've thought about using a soldering iron or soldering gun to heat the heads of the screws, but I'm not sure if there is a better way. Anybody have any experience with something like this?
Thanks for your help.
 
What type of head is on the screws? Slot Screw driver, Allen, or the new torx. The first step I would try is to get a tight fitting screw driver handle type tool with the proper head, vise the gun down and insert the screw driver, while putting left hand pressure on the screw, tap firmly on the driver handle with a mallet. If this doesnt move them, the next step would be to drill the head with a bit till you make contact with the ring, as soon as the head is drilled off you can use pliers to remove the end of the screw. I have even used a drimel with a cutting disc and gone between the ring halves and cut the screws.
 
A soldering iron is the first thing to try. You can't do any damage with that and it will loosen most all sealants.

Next I would use an impact driver, not an impact wrench but the tool you hit with a hammer. They will loosen even badly buggered screws.

Drilling or grinding is the last resort and will usually mean trashing the rings.

Jack
 
If they are locktited in and heat is not an option, spray on brake cleaner will dissolve red or blue locktite also, just watch the stock finish.
 
Weasel,
You are probably on the right track with the soldering iron if Locite is causing the trouble. At least you won't do any damage. Another thing that you can consider is a drop of Kroil on the threads. That stuff has an uncanny way of getting into anything, and the problem may be rust or galled threads and not Loctite. Good luck.
 
Sometimes what works for me anyways, is to try to tighten the screw more. Sometimes it moves it enough to enable loosening. Sometimes works, sometimes it doesn't.
 
Well, I got 4 out of eight screws loose using the soldering gun. I've tried most of the other suggestions and it looks like I'm going to buy an impact driver. There isn't any sign of rust and the gun is fairly new. I've broken several screwdriver bits trying to get these darned things out. I did put drops of Kroil on the screws so hopefully that'll help when I get the impact driver.
Thanks all, for your help.
 
I had a similar problem where I stripped an allen head on an old Redfield base screw due to blue loctite being used. I ended up having to go to Sears and purchase a set of EZ out bits. I then drilled the screw and used the screw out bit to back the screw out. Worked like a charm but I was nervous about messing up the threads in the receiver....It came out flawlessly.
 


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