How to adjust rifle Scope for elevation?

How to Adjust Rifle Scope for Elevation?

When it comes to rifle shooting, accuracy is crucial. One of the most critical factors that can affect accuracy is the elevation adjustment of the rifle scope. Elevation adjustment refers to the process of adjusting the scope to compensate for the trajectory of the bullet, ensuring that it hits the target at the desired range. In this article, we will guide you on how to adjust your rifle scope for elevation.

Understanding Elevation Adjustment

Before we dive into the process of adjusting the elevation, it’s essential to understand the concept. The elevation adjustment is measured in MOA (minutes of angle) or mils (milliradians). MOA is a more traditional unit, while mils are commonly used in military and tactical applications.

Here’s a brief overview of the units:

• MOA (Minutes of Angle): 1 MOA is equivalent to 1.047 inches at 100 yards, or 2.054 cm at 100 meters.
• Mils (Milliradians): 1 mil is equivalent to 3.437 MOA, or 0.1 cm at 100 meters.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Elevation

Adjusting the elevation of your rifle scope is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Determine the Range

Before adjusting the elevation, you need to determine the range to your target. This is crucial, as the elevation adjustment is range-dependent. You can use a range finder or a ballistic calculator to determine the distance.

Step 2: Identify the Elevation Adjustment Turret

The elevation adjustment turret is usually located on the left side of the scope (from the shooter’s perspective). It’s a dial with markings indicating the adjustment in MOA or mils.

Step 3: Identify the Parallax Setting

The parallax setting is the distance between the scope’s optical axis and the shooter’s eye. This setting can affect the accuracy of the scope. Make sure the parallax setting is set to infinity (usually indicated by an infinity symbol ∞) for long-range shooting.

Step 4: Adjust the Elevation

Using the elevation adjustment turret, turn the dial clockwise to increase the elevation or counterclockwise to decrease it. For example, if you need to adjust the elevation for a 100-yard shot, you would turn the dial 2-3 MOA (or 0.2-0.3 mils) up.

Important Note: When adjusting the elevation, make sure to turn the dial in small increments (0.5-1 MOA or 0.05-0.1 mils) and verify the shot’s impact before making further adjustments.

Step 5: Verify the Shot

After adjusting the elevation, take a shot at the target. If the bullet hits high or low, adjust the elevation accordingly. Repeat this process until you achieve a consistent hit.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use a Mil-Dot Reticle: A mil-dot reticle can help you estimate the distance to the target and make adjustments accordingly.
• Use a Ballistic Calculator: A ballistic calculator can help you determine the exact elevation adjustment needed for a specific shot.
• Practice and Patience: Adjusting the elevation takes practice and patience. Don’t rush the process, and make sure to verify each shot before making further adjustments.

Table: Elevation Adjustment Conversion Chart

Conclusion:

Adjusting the elevation of your rifle scope is a critical step in ensuring accurate shots. By following the step-by-step guide and tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your scope is adjusted correctly for optimal performance. Remember to practice and be patient, as adjusting the elevation takes time and precision. Happy shooting!