How to sight in my rifle Scope?

How to Sight in My Rifle Scope?

Sighting in a rifle scope is an essential step in ensuring the accuracy and performance of your firearm. Properly adjusted and sighted in optics can make a significant difference in your shooting experience and overall performance. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to sight in your rifle scope.

What is the Purpose of Sighting In a Rifle Scope?

Before we dive into the process, it’s important to understand the purpose of sighting in a rifle scope. Sighting in is the process of adjusting your scope’s settings to guarantee that the crosshairs, or reticle, will align with the rifle’s bore, or the muzzle of the gun. When done correctly, this guarantees that your shots will be accurate and on target.

**Gathering the Necessary Materials**

To begin sight-in process, you’ll need the following:

• A clean and cleared rifle: Make sure the rifle is free from any obstacles, such as debris, dirt, or old wads, that might impede the bullet’s exit.
• A trigger pull gauge (optional): This is used to measure the consistency of the trigger pull.
• A shooting rest or bench (optional): A tripod or shooting bench can stabilize the rifle, allowing you to focus on adjusting the scope.
• Shooting glasses: These help protect your eyes from spent shell casings and dirt.
• A clear and level shooting surface: Ensure the shooting surface is flat, smooth, and free from any obstructions.

**Step 1: Select a Target and Zero Stop**

Select a target that is at least 30 yards away: Choose a target that is easily distinguishable and large enough for your scope’s magnification. For example, for a 4×20 scope, use a 30-yard target, whereas for a 10×40 scope, use a 50-yard target. Make sure the target is at the same vertical plane as your scope.

Determine Your Zero Stop: Read your scope’s manual, as the zero stop function may vary between manufacturers. It’s usually located on the elevation turret (adjustments for up or down adjustments). The zero stop defines the point at which you’ve reached zero and may not need to adjust your scope further. This keeps your scope from moving while adjusting the elevation turret for longer shots.

**Step 2: Adjust the Windage (Horizontal Adjustments)**

Adjust the windage (right-left) adjustments by changing the scope’s adjustment value. Count the rotation of the windage click: Count the number of clicks it takes to align the crosshairs to the target’s center (usually 1/2 MOA per click).
• If the aim is left, rotate to the right: Move the windage adjustment clockwise or counterclockwise accordingly.
• If the aim is right, rotate to the left: The opposite applies when adjusting counter-clockwise.
• Repeat the process: Shoot, adjust, and continue until the aim is near the center.

**Step 3: Adjust the Elevation (Up-Down) Adjustments**

Count the rotation of the elevation clicks: Count the number of clicks it takes to rise or fall one minute-of-angle (1 MOA) per click. Since the scope’s manual advises the scope’s adjustments rate, use it to match the clicks with MOAs.
• If your shot is below the aimed point, elevate the target: Move the elevation turret up (clockwise), and count the clicks made.
• If the shot is above the aimed point, depress the target: Move the elevation turret down (counterclockwise), and count the clicks made.
• Repeat the process: Aim, adjust, and check until the target is exactly on the aim point.

Step 4: Record and Verify

• Record the final settings: Write down the scope adjustment values for the windage and elevation turrets.

• Verify the grouping: Shoot 3 to 5 rounds to assess the grouping of your scope. If the shots lie within a reasonable range (1-2 inches @ 100 yards for common hunting calibers or 1-2 groups @ 200-300 yards for more distance-oriented calibers), assume the scope is properly aligned.

**Tips and Precautions**

• Take your time: Sighting in may take several minutes or require multiple sessions.
• Be patient and precise: Avoid rushing and focus on making small, consistent adjustments.
• Check regularly: Verify the grouping in between adjustments to ensure precision.
• Store away: When not in use, store the scope set to the recorded values mentioned in Step 4.