How to zero rifle scopes?

How to Zero a Rifle Scope: A Comprehensive Guide

Zeroing a rifle scope is a critical process that ensures your shooting instrument is accurately aligned and ready for use. Zeroing involves adjusting the scope to match the rifle’s sights, allowing you to fire accurately at various distances and angles. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of zeroing a rifle scope, highlighting key tips and best practices to ensure you get it right the first time.

Understanding Zeroing

Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand the concept of zeroing. Zeroing is the process of adjusting the rifle scope to match the rifle’s sights, allowing the scope to accurately compensate for the rifle’s inherent deviation. This deviation is known as "point of impact" or "POI."

POI refers to the exact spot where the bullet impacts the target, and it’s affected by several factors, including:

• Rifle’s barrel length and material
• Muzzle brake or suppressor
• Bullets used
• Ammunition type and lot

Pre-Zeroing Checklist

Before zeroing your rifle scope, make sure you have completed the following steps:

• Clean and lubricate the scope and rifle
• Install the correct battery for the scope’s reticle illumination
• Ensure the scope’s objective lens is clean and clear of debris
• Perform a thorough inspection of the scope’s adjustments to identify any stuck or jammed mechanisms
• Have a suitable target and aiming method (e.g., scope’s built-in windage and elevation adjustments, a shooting rest, or a bipod)

The Zeroing Process

Follow these steps to zero your rifle scope:

Step 1: Determine the Scope’s MOA (Minute of Angle) Adjustment

• Check the scope’s manual or packaging to determine the MOA (Minute of Angle) adjustment per click. Most scopes have a MOA adjustment of 1/4 MOA or 1/8 MOA per click.

Table: Common MOA Adjustments per Click

Step 2: Set the Scope to Factory Settings

• Set the scope to its factory settings by:

  • Turning off any reticle illumination
  • Setting the turrets to their default position
  • Ensuring the scope’s adjustments are unlocked (if applicable)

Step 3: Shoot and Observe the POI

• Set up your rifle and target:

  • Use a known distance (e.g., 25 yards)
  • Use a single-point aiming method (e.g., scope’s crosshair or a dot sight)
  • Shoot three shots, observing the impact area

• Record the average POI:

Step 4: Adjust the Elevation Turret

• Based on the recorded POI:

  • If the POI is below the desired target point, elevate the scope by turning the elevation turret clockwise (depending on the scope’s orientation). For example, if the POI is 5 inches below the target point, you would add 5 MOA elevation (1/4 MOA per click).
  • If the POI is above the desired target point, reduce the scope by turning the elevation turret counterclockwise.

Step 5: Adjust the Windage Turret

• Based on the recorded POI:

  • If the POI is left or right of the desired target point, adjust the windage turret accordingly (depending on the scope’s orientation). For example, if the POI is 3 inches right of the target point, you would add 3 MOA windage.

Table: Elevation and Windage Adjustments (Example)

Step 6: Confirm and Refine

• Repeat steps 3-5 until the POI is within 1 MOA of the target point.
• Confirm the accuracy by shooting additional groups:

Post-Zeroing Checklist

• After zeroing, inspect the scope’s adjustments again to ensure they are working correctly.
• Record the POI and any adjustment data for future reference.
• Clean and maintain the scope and rifle regularly.

By following these steps and maintaining your rifle scope correctly, you’ll be well on your way to accurately zeroing your rifle scope. Remember to stay focused, patient, and prepared to make adjustments as needed. Happy shooting!