does this scope make my barrel look big?

I was disappointed the Lipsy 6.5 Swede "African" did not come with express sights, so I thought I would mount a scope.

I am partial to the Leupold VariXIII 1.5-5X20's. I got a #3 ring to exchange with the #5(& #4) that came with the rifle so I could go low but not sure this scope looks proper.

Comments.

I think it looks fine, but you could go a step lower if bolt handle clearance will allow.

thanks...

from what I can gather the #3 is the lowest ring Ruger makes. this has the the center of scope to bore at 1.54"

The bolt handle clears the bell by just about 1/8", thus have to use open hand to cycle

Looks very nice, everything right sized.

I would have to say you are spot on. Very sweet set-up. Good choice of scope. Scope height is a very personal thing, What works for you is what's right.

while there is not that much lead way with height, I like to verify MY fit (and eye relief) by picking a targer, closing eyes, shouldering and adjust for a good scope view when I open eyes

I don't think it makes the barrel look big. If it was my rifle I would try to find rings that mount the scope lower to the barrel. Great choice for a scope. In my neck of the woods you don't see the gold ring much in the woods or at the ranges. I own 7 Leupold scopes-can't argue with quality, lifetime warranty, and the fact their assembled in USA.

Who cares what it looks like, does it work for you.

The target and/or animal you're hunting won't care about fashion and looks.

Haha! I liked it. Some folks just don't appreciate humor. Oh well it is the internet. If you can see the target without climbing the stock or moving your head when the rifle is shouldered then you are would be hard pressed to do any better.

JFB, I always swap out the #5 ring for a #3 on my M77's. That's as low as one can go using Ruger rings. There may be some aftermarket rings that are lower, but as always, the front ring has to be .125" lower(shorter) than the rear ring. Leupold makes or did make a set of lower rings for the #1, Mini's, and M77/22, but, of course, they(each one) are the same height. They work fine on the Mini's and 77/22. Bob! 8)

My 6.5 x 55 African looks like(is) a M70 Featherweight with factory iron sights and a barrel band swivel. Bob!!

I like it just the way you have it set up. Remember ''beauty is in the eye of the beholder''.

Since you asked, I guess I am the one dissenting opinion. If my rifle, I would much prefer a longer scope with a bigger bell, your smaller scope I think is ideal for RSI Rugers. JMO

I think a scope like that looks just right on an "African" rifle. These are meant to emulate dangerous game rifles, which typically wear low-power scopes if they have a scope at all. While it might be nice to mount it even lower, assuming you could find lower rings, there's no way the bolt handle would clear the eyepiece, so it's perfect as-is, in my opinion.

I like it