Getting your shots to hit exactly where you aim starts with a properly set up optic. Learning how to adjust a rifle scope is a fundamental skill every shooter needs, whether you’re sighting in a new rifle or compensating for different ammunition. It might seem technical at first, but the process is straightforward once you understand the basics. This guide will walk you through the entire procedure, from setup to fine-tuning, ensuring you can confidently zero your rifle.
A scope that isn’t adjusted correctly is just a fancy tube. Proper adjustment, or “zeroing,” aligns the crosshairs with the point of impact of the bullet at a specific distance. This ensures consistency and accuracy, which is crucial for hunting, target shooting, or any precision task. Let’s get your rifle and scope working together as one.
How to Adjust a Rifle Scope
Before you touch a single dial, you need to set the stage for success. Proper mounting and initial setup prevent frustration and wasted ammunition later.
First, ensure your scope is mounted correctly. The rings should be tight to the rifle’s base and the scope tube, but don’t over-torque them. The scope should be level; a canted scope will cause shots to drift. Use a small level on the flat part of the scope turret or the rifle’s action to help. Also, position the scope so you get a full, clear sight picture with your head in a natural, comfortable position. You shouldn’t have to strain your neck forward or back.
Next, understand your adjustment turrets. Most scopes have two main dials covered by caps:
* Windage Turret: This adjusts the point of impact left and right. It’s usually marked with an “L” and “R” or arrows.
* Elevation Turret: This adjusts the point of impact up and down. It’s usually marked with an “U” and “D” or arrows.
Each “click” of the dial moves the point of impact a specific distance at 100 yards, like 1/4 inch or 1/2 inch. This is called the click value and is listed in your scope’s manual.
Finally, gather your gear. You’ll need:
* A stable shooting rest (sandbags or a bipod and rear bag).
* Ammunition you plan to use regularly.
* A target with a clear, small aiming point.
* A safe shooting range where you can shoot at a known distance (25 or 100 yards is ideal to start).
* A screwdriver or coin to remove turret caps if needed.
Step-by-Step Zeroing Process
Now for the main event. Follow these steps in order for the best results.
1. Bore Sight First (If Possible). This gets you on paper without firing. Secure the rifle in a rest. Look down the bore (barrel) and center the target. Without moving the rifle, adjust the scope’s windage and elevation turrets until the crosshairs are centered on that same target. A laser bore sighter makes this even easier.
2. Fire Your First Group. Set up your target at a close distance, like 25 yards. This makes misses less likely and saves time. Aim carefully at the bullseye and fire a three-shot group. Focus on steady fundamentals for each shot.
3. Analyze the Group. Go downrange and look at where your three shots landed. Identify the center of that group. This is your current point of impact. Measure the horizontal and vertical distance from the center of the group to your aiming point.
4. Make the Initial Adjustments. Let’s say your group is 4 inches low and 2 inches left at 25 yards, and your scope has 1/4 MOA clicks. At 25 yards, each click moves impact 1/4 of what it would at 100 yards. So you need to adjust up 16 clicks (4 inches / 0.25 inches per click at 25yds) and right 8 clicks (2 inches / 0.25 inches). Remember the phrase: “Follow the holes.” If your shots are low, you need to come up. If they are left, you need to go right.
5. Confirm at Final Distance. After adjusting, fire another three-shot group at 25 yards. It should be very close to center. Once it is, move your target to your desired zero range, like 100 yards. Repeat the process: fire a group, measure, and adjust. The click values are now full strength (e.g., 1/4 inch per click at 100 yards).
6. Final Verification. When your group is centered at your chosen distance, you’re zeroed. Fire one final group to confirm. Your adjustments are now complete.
Understanding Parallax and Focus
Modern scopes often have a third adjustment: the parallax knob, usually on the side or objective bell. Parallax error occurs when the target image isn’t perfectly aligned with the reticle plane, causing the crosshairs to appear to move on the target if you shift your head. To correct it:
* While keeping your rifle steady, move your head slightly up/down and left/right while looking through the scope.
* If the crosshairs seem to move across the target, adjust the parallax knob until that movement stops.
* The knob is often marked with distances; set it to your shooting range for the best clarity and accuracy.
Also, don’t forget the diopter focus on the eyepiece. This adjusts the reticle to your eye. Turn it until the crosshairs appear as sharp as possible against a plain background (like the sky). This is a one-time set for your eye.
Pro Tips for Consistent Adjustments
* Track Your Clicks: Some shooter’s use a small notebook to record their adjustments, especially if trying different loads.
* Return to Zero: Many turrets have a “zero stop” or allow you to reset the turret cap to zero after sighting in. This lets you make adjustments for long range and then easily return to your standard zero.
* Environment Matters: Remember that temperature, altitude, and barrel heat can subtly affect point of impact. Your zero from a cold barrel on a cool morning might be slightly different on a hot afternoon.
* Check Your Zero: It’s good practice to verify your zero periodically, especially before an important hunting trip or competition. Scopes can shift slightly over time with handling.
FAQ: Common Scope Adjustment Questions
Which way do I turn my scope to adjust it?
Always check your scope’s manual, but the standard rule is: To move the point of impact up, turn the elevation turret in the direction marked “Up.” To move it right, turn the windage turret in the direction marked “Right.” Remember, you are moving the impact of the bullet toward your crosshairs.
Why are my shots still inconsistent after adjusting?
If your groups are large or scattered, the problem likely isn’t the scope adjustment. Focus on your shooting fundamentals: steady rest, consistent cheek weld, smooth trigger press, and proper breathing. Also, ensure all mounting screws are tight and that your ammunition is of good quality.
How often should I re-zero my rifle scope?
You should check your zero at the begining of each shooting season or if the rifle suffers a significant impact, like being dropped. Normal transportation in a case shouldn’t affect it, but it’s always a good idea to confirm before a critical use. Ammunition changes also require a fresh zero.
Learning to adjust your rifle scope is a core skill that pays off in confidence and performance on the range or in the field. By following these methodical steps, you can take control of your rifle’s accuracy. Start with a solid mount, make careful adjustments based on your shot groups, and always confirm your final zero. With a little practice, the process becomes quick and routine, letting you focus on the shot itself.