Getting your shots to land where you aim is essential for any rifle shooter. If your point of impact is off, you need to know how do you adjust a scope on a rifle. This process, called zeroing, aligns the crosshairs with the barrel so you can hit your target consistently. It might seem technical, but with the right steps, it’s a skill any shooter can master.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, from setup to final confirmation. We’ll cover the tools you need, the step-by-step procedure, and some common pitfalls to avoid. By the end, you’ll be confident in your ability to zero your own rifle scope.
How Do You Adjust a Scope on a Rifle
Adjusting a scope involves turning the windage and elevation turrets to move the point of impact on the target. These turrets are the knobs on the top and side of your scope, usually protected by caps. Before you start turning them, you need a solid foundation and a safe place to shoot.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Gathering the right equipment makes the process smoother and more accurate. Here’s your checklist:
* A properly mounted and leveled rifle scope.
* A solid shooting rest or sandbags to stabilize the rifle.
* Ammunition you plan to use regularly (same brand and bullet weight).
* A target with a clear, precise aiming point.
* A safe shooting range with a known distance (100 yards is standard to start).
* A screwdriver or coin to remove turret caps if necessary.
* Patience and a methodical approach.
Step 1: Secure Your Rifle and Target
Start at a close range, like 25 yards, to get on paper. This saves ammo and frustration. Place your rifle securely in the rest so it points naturally at the target without you holding it. The stock should be firm against your shoulder, but the rest should support almost all the weight. This eliminates human error.
Step 2: Understanding Turret Adjustments
Scope turrets adjust the reticle. They are marked with directions like “Up/Down” for elevation (top knob) and “Left/Right” for windage (side knob). Each click of the turret moves the point of impact a specific distance at 100 yards, like 1/4 inch. This is called the “click value.” Check your scope manual to be sure.
* Elevation (Top Turret): Controls vertical impact. Turn it “UP” to move bullet impact higher on the target.
* Windage (Side Turret): Controls horizontal impact. Turn it “RIGHT” to move bullet impact to the right on the target.
Step 3: Fire Your First Group
Aim carefully at the bullseye and fire a three-shot group. Try to be as consistent as possible. The goal is to see where these three shots cluster together. A single shot can be a fluke, but a group shows your true point of impact.
Step 4: Measure and Calculate Adjustments
Go downrange (when safe) or use a spotting scope to examine your target. Find the center of your three-shot group. Measure the horizontal and vertical distance from that center to your point of aim (the bullseye).
Let’s say your group is 6 inches low and 4 inches left at 25 yards. If your scope adjusts in 1/4″ clicks at 100 yards, the math is simple. At 25 yards, each click is four times less effective. So, a 1/4″ @ 100yd click equals 1/16″ @ 25yds.
* To move 6 inches up at 25 yards: 6 inches / (1/16 inch per click) = 96 clicks UP.
* To move 4 inches right: 4 inches / (1/16 inch per click) = 64 clicks RIGHT.
Step 5: Make the Adjustments
Remove your turret caps if they’re on. Turn the elevation turret in the “UP” direction the calculated number of clicks. Do the same for windage, turning “RIGHT.” Listen or feel for each distinct click. Most modern scopes have turrets that are easy to count.
Step 6: Confirm and Fine-Tune at Distance
Fire another three-shot group after your adjustments. It should now be much closer to the bullseye. Fine-tune with smaller adjustments until your group is centered. Once zeroed at 25 yards, move your target to 100 yards. You’ll need to make final adjustments because bullet trajectory changes. Repeat the process of shooting a group, measuring, and adjusting until you are zeroed at your desired range.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced shooters can make errors during zeroing. Being aware of these helps you get a better zero faster.
* Inconsistent Shooting Position: Not using a rest or changing your cheek weld between shots.
* Mixing Ammunition: Different bullet weights and brands will impact at different points.
* Adjusting on a Flier: Basing adjustments on one stray shot instead of a group’s center.
* Loose Scope Mounts: Always ensure your scope rings and base are properly torqued before starting.
* Forgetting Parallax: If your scope has a parallax adjustment, set it for the distance you’re shooting to avoid reticle movement.
Maintaining Your Zero
Once you have a good zero, it’s important to maintain it. A few pratices will help.
* Record your zero settings in a log book. Many scope turrets have a zero-stop or a marked reference point.
* Check your scope mount screws periodically with a torque wrench to ensure they haven’t loosened.
* Reconfirm your zero if you change ammunition, drop your rifle, or before an important hunting trip.
FAQ: Scope Adjustment Questions
Which way do I turn my scope to move impact left?
To move your bullet’s point of impact to the left, you turn the windage turret in the direction marked “L” or counter-clockwise. Remember the rule: “Follow the shot.” If your shots are hitting to the left, you need to move the reticle left to meet them, which means turning the turret left.
What does MOA mean on a rifle scope?
MOA stands for Minute of Angle. It’s an angular measurement used for adjustments. 1 MOA is roughly 1 inch at 100 yards, 2 inches at 200 yards, etc. If your scope has 1/4 MOA clicks, one click moves impact 1/4 inch at 100 yards. This is the standard system for most rifle scopes in the United States.
How often should I re-zero my rifle scope?
You should check your zero at least once a year, or whenever you suspect something may have changed. This includes after traveling over rough terrain, if the rifle takes a hard bump, or if you change to a different type of ammunition. It’s a good habit to confirm your zero before each hunting season starts.
Learning how do you adjust a scope on a rifle is a fundamental skill. It requires patience and attention to detail, but the reward is a rifle you can trust to shoot straight. Always start with a good, secure scope mount and take your time with each step. With practice, you’ll be able to zero any rifle quickly and confidently, ensuring you’re ready for the range or the field. Remember to always follow basic safety rules and enjoy the process of making your equipment perform at its best.