Leupold CDS turret set screws come loose

Koda_

Well-Known Member
Joined
Dec 19, 2021
Messages
660
Location
Oregon
Love the VX6 scopes but I've never liked the 3 tiny set screws holding the turret caps on, seems too weak. Today hunting I almost lost a cap, lucky for me I was able to find it on the path but I got very lucky to find such a small item fallen off in the woods.

Leupold recommends 5inch lbs of torque. My Wheeler FAT torque wrench only goes down to 10in lbs, I'm generally pretty good with "finger tight" but this is the first time I guess I wasn't...

One thing I noticed about the set screws is they are really short compared to the threaded hole length they go into... (pic)
I'm wondering if anyone has found a set screw this size with a flat tip but longer?
Has anyone used blue loctite for extra assurance?
If I invest in a proper torque wrench will 5in/lbs proper over 3 set screws really hold it for good?

1728879041386.png
 
I need to doublecheck thread size and length...

 
Did you try contacting Leupold?
They may send you the screws free of charge.

Yet another reason for me to like MOA reticles over CDS.
 
Blue Loctite solved the problem for me on several scope brands.
I'll give blue loctite a try. The Leupold screws are 3/16" (.1875") long, 6-32 threads. Im going to see if I can get some 1/4" to 3/8" long screws at the hardware store. The threaded hole is about 3/8" long so those would show but I dont think a big deal and the extra threads with some loctite should hold them great.
Thanks for the reply, its good to know someone else has found a solution to this 'small' problem. :)
 
I'll give blue loctite a try. The Leupold screws are 3/16" (.1875") long, 6-32 threads. Im going to see if I can get some 1/4" to 3/8" long screws at the hardware store. The threaded hole is about 3/8" long so those would show but I dont think a big deal and the extra threads with some loctite should hold them great.
Thanks for the reply, its good to know someone else has found a solution to this 'small' problem. :)
Be careful the longer screw doesn't bottom out before it tightens....I'd use what you have and as stated...blue loctite
 
I use blue loctite and got longer set screws from my local ace hardware they have a awesome collection of gun screws
I stopped by ACE after work today, they didnt have the "extended tips" Leupold uses but had standard tip stainless set screws in longer lengths. I bought a few extras and will set this up with blue loctite before this weekends hunt. I'll bring a repair kit with the proper allen wrench and some extra screws in case but should be good to go.
 
Been shooting a 338 RUM for 5 years and haven't had a issue, no loctite , etc. Just make sure that all 3 screws are close to being equal on the drum. Shot over 500 rounds and the dial is rock solid . Good Luck.
 
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