Getting your shots to hit exactly where you aim is essential for any shooter. Learning how to adjust the scope on a rifle is the first step to achieving that precision. It might seem technical at first, but it’s a straightforward process once you understand the basics. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the tools required to the final fine-tuning. You’ll be making confident adjustments in no time.
How To Adjust The Scope On A Rifle
Before you start turning knobs, you need to understand your equipment. Most modern rifle scopes have two main adjustment turrets. The top turret adjusts for elevation (up and down), and the side turret adjusts for windage (left and right). These are often protected by screw-on caps. You’ll also hear a click with each adjustment; each click moves the point of impact a specific distance at 100 yards, like 1/4 inch or 1/2 inch.
Gather Your Essential Tools
You won’t need much, but having the right items makes the job smoother. Here’s what you should have ready:
- A stable shooting rest or sandbags.
- Your target, preferably with a clear bullseye.
- A screwdriver or coin if your turret caps are tight.
- A pen and paper to track your adjustments.
- Eye and ear protection, of course.
Step-by-Step Scope Adjustment Process
Follow these steps carefully for the best results. Always ensure your rifle is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction when handling it off the bench.
1. Bore Sighting (Initial Rough Alignment)
Bore sighting gets you on paper faster, saving ammo. Secure your rifle in a rest. Remove the bolt and look directly down the barrel. Center the barrel on your target. Without moving the rifle, look through the scope and adjust the crosshairs to center on the same point. This is a rough alignment to start with.
2. Fire Your First Group
Now it’s time to shoot. From a solid bench rest, fire a three-shot group at your target. Aim for the exact center of the bullseye each time. Use a steady, consistent technique. This group will show you where your rifle is actually hitting compared to where you aimed.
3. Measure the Miss
Go down to the target and find the center of your three-shot group. Measure the horizontal and vertical distance from that group center to your point of aim (the bullseye). For example, your group might be 6 inches high and 4 inches to the left.
4. Calculate the Needed Adjustments
This is where the “click” value comes in. If your scope adjusts in 1/4 MOA clicks, one click moves impact 1/4 inch at 100 yards. For a group 6 inches high at 100 yards, you need to move impact down 6 inches. That’s 24 clicks down (6 ÷ 0.25 = 24). For 4 inches left, you need to move impact right 4 inches, which is 16 clicks right (4 ÷ 0.25 = 16).
5. Make the Adjustments on the Turrets
Remove the turret caps. Turn the elevation turret in the direction marked “DOWN” the calculated number of clicks. Then, turn the windage turret in the direction marked “RIGHT” its calculated clicks. Always double-check your count. Most scopes have arrows indicating the direction of impact movement.
6. Confirm with a Second Group
Fire another three-shot group, again aiming dead center. This new group should be much closer to the bullseye. If it’s not perfectly centered, measure again and make smaller, finer adjustments. Repeat this process until your point of aim and point of impact match.
Fine-Tuning for Different Ranges
Once zeroed at a specific distance, like 100 yards, you can use the turrets to adjust for longer shots. Many scopes have a zero-stop feature or a marked dial. If you know your rifle drops 8 inches at 300 yards, you can dial the appropriate elevation. Remember to return to your zero setting after. Some shooters prefer holdover marks in the reticle instead of dialing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not having the rifle solidly supported. Movement ruins consistency.
- Forgetting to track your adjustments and getting lost.
- Making huge adjustments after just one shot; always use a group.
- Not letting the barrel cool between groups, which can effect point of impact.
- Overtightening or crossthreading the turret caps when replacing them.
Maintaining Your Zero
After all that work, you want your zero to stay put. Ensure all mounting screws (rings and base) are properly torqued with a torque wrench. Check them periodically. Avoid banging the scope turrets on hard surfaces. Store your rifle properly. It’s also a good idea to confirm your zero before an important hunt or competition, just to be sure.
FAQ Section
Which way do I turn my scope to adjust it?
To move your point of impact up, turn the elevation turret up. To move it right, turn the windage turret right. If your group is low and left, you would turn the turrets up and right accordingly.
How many clicks is one inch?
It depends on your scope’s click value. At 100 yards, a 1/4 MOA scope takes 4 clicks to move 1 inch. A 1/2 MOA scope takes 2 clicks for 1 inch. Always check your scope’s manual to be certain of its specific value.
What does MOA mean on a rifle scope?
MOA stands for Minute of Angle. It’s an angular measurement. Roughly, 1 MOA equals about 1 inch at 100 yards, 2 inches at 200 yards, and so on. It’s the standard unit for scope adjustments, allowing for consistent adjustments at different ranges.
Why are my shots still inconsistent after adjusting?
Inconsistency is usually not the scope’s fault. It can be caused by shooter error (flinching, pulling), unstable rest, inconsistent ammunition, or a loose scope mount. Focus on fundamentals and ensure your equipment is securely fastened before blaming the zero.
Mastering scope adjustment is a fundamental skill that pays off every time you pull the trigger. With patience and practice, you can quickly get your rifle shooting straight. Remember the process: shoot a group, measure the error, calculate the clicks, and adjust. Always prioritize safety and consistency in your setup. Now that you know the steps, you can tackle this task with confidence and get back to enjoying accurate shooting.