Al Voth, a retired law enforcement officer who now works as a forensic firearms consultant, writer and photographer, described typical problems that arise when people attach scopes to rifles. He has made several of those errors himself and has seen them made by retail staff.

Overly long screws holding the base can prevent the bolt from opening. Fasteners throughout the assembly need the right tightness, the rear lens must sit where it matches the shooter and the usual firing position, the optic must stay square for true tracking, and both the front lens and bolt handle require clearance, often solved by taller rings.