Sight adjustment can be tricky! This in-depth guide will teach you how to properly sight in your scope, understanding which way to turn the turrets for both windage and elevation adjustments. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a first-time shooter, mastering this skill is crucial for accuracy.
Understanding Scope Adjustments
Before we dive into the specifics of which way to turn, let's clarify the basic mechanics. Rifle scopes use adjustment turrets – usually with clicks – to fine-tune your point of impact (POI). These turrets control two key adjustments:
- Elevation: This adjusts the vertical position of your bullet's impact point.
- Windage: This adjusts the horizontal position of your bullet's impact point.
Most scopes use a system where one click equals a specific adjustment in either minutes of angle (MOA) or millimeters (Mil-Dot). Knowing your scope's click value is essential for precise adjustments.
MOA vs. Mil-Dot
- MOA (Minute of Angle): One MOA equals approximately one inch at 100 yards. This means that if your shot is one inch off the target at 100 yards, you need to adjust your scope by one MOA.
- Mil-Dot: Mil-dots are based on a milliradian system. This is a metric system where one mil-dot represents approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards.
Your scope's manual will specify whether it uses MOA or Mil-Dot and the click value per adjustment.
Which Way To Turn: The Universal Rules
Here's the universally accepted rule for adjusting your scope, regardless of MOA or Mil-Dot system:
Remember this simple mnemonic: "Up is up, right is right."
- Elevation: To move your POI up, turn the elevation turret up. To move it down, turn the turret down.
- Windage: To move your POI to the right, turn the windage turret right. To move it to the left, turn the turret left.
This system is consistent across nearly all rifle scopes. However, always double-check your specific scope's manual to confirm.
Step-by-Step Sighting In Process
Sighting in a scope involves several steps:
- Safe Setup: Ensure you're in a safe shooting environment, with a proper backstop. Never shoot at anything you haven't clearly identified as your target.
- Zeroing Distance: Start at a relatively short distance (e.g., 25 yards), as this allows for easier adjustments.
- Initial Shot Group: Fire a three-shot group and observe where your shots land on the target.
- Adjustments Based on Shot Placement: Use the rules above ("Up is up, right is right") to make the necessary adjustments to your scope.
- Iterative Process: After making adjustments, fire another three-shot group to assess the impact. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until your POI is centered on the target.
- Increase Range: Once you have a zero at your initial distance (25 yards), increase the range (e.g., to 50 yards, then 100 yards) and repeat the process. You may need to make more substantial adjustments at longer ranges.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Excessive Windage or Elevation Adjustments: If you find yourself making extremely large adjustments, there might be a problem with your scope's mounting, the rifle itself, or even your shooting technique. Recheck your mounting and seek professional help if necessary.
- Inconsistent Shot Groups: Inconsistent shot groupings often point to shooter error, rather than scope misalignment. Focus on proper shooting technique: a consistent grip, proper breathing, and a smooth trigger pull are critical for accuracy.
- Understanding Bullet Drop: At longer ranges, bullet drop becomes more significant. You need to compensate for this drop by adjusting your elevation, taking into account factors such as bullet velocity and ballistic coefficient.
Conclusion: Mastering Scope Adjustment
Mastering scope sighting is essential for any shooter. By understanding the basic principles outlined above, and by following a methodical approach, you can accurately zero your rifle scope and improve your shooting precision. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice regularly to refine your skills. Remember, "Up is up, right is right!" will always guide you through this process.