Method and apparatus for mounting an auxiliary sighting aid on a firearm

Abstract

An apparatus including a rigid base having a first portion, typically the top, that is configured to receive and support an auxiliary sighting aid for a firearm (e.g., a rifle, shotgun or pistol). A typical configuration may be a standard dovetail shape that is sized to receive scope rings of the Weaver type. The firearm must have an accessible aperture, but it need not be integral with the firearm's original structure; an adaptor can be attached to the firearm's original structure so as to create a structural extension which contains the necessary aperture. The rigid base also has an exterior that fosters the correct orientation of the auxiliary sighting aid with respect to the firearm's longitudinal bore. A post having a generally smooth exterior is carried by the base and extends outwardly therefrom for a distance which is sufficient so that the distal end of the post may be inserted into the aperture on the firearm. A hook is provided at the distal end of the post so that it may be pushed under a portion of the lip surrounding the aperture. By pulling upward on a properly placed hook, it can be caused to bear tightly against the lower surface of the lip in order to rigidly secure the post (and the rigid base) to the firearm. One way of causing the post to rise or descent in a smooth bore in the base is to provide threads in the top of the post, and then provide a threaded nut for engaging the post. Ideally, a permanently-captured, threaded nut is located near the top of the base, so that it is readily engageable by the digits of one hand--which may be the same hand that is holding (e.g. cradling) the auxiliary sighting aid. This permits one-handed installation or removal of a scope or the like on a firearm.