How to Sight In a Rifle Scope
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Mount your scope, secure it properly, then fire groups at 25 yards to get on paper before moving to your desired zero distance. Make windage and elevation adjustments using the scope turrets until point of impact matches point of aim.
How This Affects Your Sight Picture
Proper scope zeroing is fundamental to accuracy and determines whether your rifle performs to its potential. A poorly zeroed scope renders even the most precise rifle useless for hunting or target shooting. The process requires patience and systematic adjustments to align your point of aim with your bullet's point of impact.
The Detail
Start by mounting your scope in quality rings and bases, ensuring everything is properly torqued to manufacturer specifications. The scope should be level and positioned at the correct eye relief distance. Before heading to the range, bore sight your rifle by looking through the barrel and aligning the crosshairs with the same point downrange.
Begin your live fire zeroing at 25 yards using a stable shooting position or rest. Fire a three shot group and measure the distance between your point of aim and the center of your group. Most scope turrets move point of impact in quarter minute increments, meaning four clicks equal one inch at 100 yards or one quarter inch at 25 yards. Make your windage and elevation adjustments accordingly.
Once you're hitting close to your point of aim at 25 yards, move to your desired zero distance. Common zero distances include 100 yards for general purpose shooting, 200 yards for hunting, or 50 yards for rimfire rifles. Fire additional three shot groups and continue making adjustments until your groups center on your aiming point. Remember that environmental factors like wind and temperature can affect your zero.
After achieving your desired zero, fire a confirmation group to verify your adjustments. Some shooters prefer to shoot a five shot group for final confirmation. Record your zero distance and ammunition used, as different loads will impact at different points even from the same rifle.
Build Impact
Your choice of scope mounting system directly affects how well your zero holds over time, with higher quality rings and bases maintaining zero better under recoil. Consider your intended use when selecting zero distance, as a 50 yard rimfire zero differs significantly from a 200 yard hunting rifle setup.