Talley bases not lined up right?

[JohnnyB64]

My kid and I are pretty green when mounting scopes are concerned. Thought this might be an issue. I was wondering if I could get some knowledgeable guys to check out these scope bases shown with a level on them which seems to indicate they are not clocked or lined up right. They are showing half a bubble difference between the front and the back base. These are Talley bases and were factory installed. Do you think this is a problem or will this not matter once the rings are on?

 

[REELDOC]

They are great bases but I agree your receiver holes might be misaligned. That's why I try and use 1 piece bases whenever possible, but that is almost too much off for a one piece base without bedding.

That's a lot of difference when you install the scope and take a chance that it damages the scope. You will have to lap the hell out of the rings. A good smith could shim or bed them.

Have you tried mounting the scope to see how it fits?

 

[Pogue]

Any gaps differences under each rail? Side to side

 

[OldNascar]

Try mounting the bases 180 degrees to see if the bases are the problem or the rifle’s mounting surfaces are aschew.

 

[JohnnyB64]

Thanks for confirming my suspicions and for the helpful and logical suggestions. I didn't try to mount the scope yet. Regarding @OldNascar's suggestion about swapping the bases around - would you expect the mounting screws to be loctited in place - requiring heat to remove them? They were on the rifle when it left the factory so I assume they are.

The rifle's new so I emailed the mfg. and sent these same photos; it's Cooper Firearms of Montana. If the holes aren't clocked right I suppose the rifle might need to be shipped back to them. I've heard their service is pretty good so we'll see. I may also reach out to Talley as well. The rifle's a college graduation gift and I would really hate to have to ship it back but may be best option.

 

[REELDOC]

Unusual for a Cooper. I wouldn't think the screws were Loctite in. That's a big no-no especially on a quality rifle. Try and pull the screws. I think emailing them was the best option for now.

 

[JohnnyB64]

Just to close the loop for the record...
Loosened the screws and you could move the bases all over the place. Had #6 screws in #8 size holes. A knowledgeable guy from Talley called this AM before I even finished breakfast. He knew exactly the issue, Cooper made a change at some point, said send Talley the bases and they will send me the right ones. Even though not their mistake (apparently Cooper installed the wrong ones). Thanks again for the responses and suggestions and glad I asked you guys.