Accuracy is a cornerstone of any successful shooting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive marksman, or a recreational shooter, the ability to consistently hit your target is paramount. Achieving this precision begins with properly zeroing your scope. But, the question often arises: Do You Chase The Bullet When Sighting In A Scope? Or is there a more effective, less frustrating approach? This article delves into the intricacies of scope zeroing, providing a comprehensive guide to help you understand the process and achieve optimal accuracy.
The initial thrill of mounting a new scope on your rifle can quickly turn into frustration when your shots consistently land off-target. It’s a scenario many shooters have encountered. You carefully mount the optic, eager to put it to the test, but then the shots start landing left, right, high, or low of your intended point of aim. This leads to an immediate instinct: adjust the scope. You make a small adjustment, fire another round, and the bullet still seems to be off. You repeat this process, making further adjustments, often feeling like you’re constantly reacting to where the bullet *has* gone. This is, in essence, “chasing the bullet,” a common mistake that can significantly hinder your zeroing efforts.
The core of “chasing the bullet” is the act of constantly adjusting your scope to try and match each shot’s impact point. You fire a round, see where it hits, and then immediately adjust the scope to “chase” that point of impact. While the immediate instinct is understandable, it can lead to several problems. The most significant risk is over-correction. If your first shot is slightly off, you might adjust the scope too much, resulting in the next shot being off in the opposite direction. This creates a cycle of chasing, making it extremely challenging to achieve a true and reliable zero.
Beyond over-correction, “chasing the bullet” can be a time-consuming and emotionally draining process. Each adjustment, each shot fired, and each subsequent adjustment eats into your range time, leading to frustration. Additionally, it can obscure the underlying issues, preventing you from identifying potential problems with your equipment, your technique, or the environment. It is often a method that doesn’t lead to a properly zeroed scope, leaving you with a scope that is off target and frustration that remains.
Fortunately, there are much more effective ways to approach the task of zeroing a scope, starting with understanding the crucial concept of a proper sight-in process.
So, how do you avoid the pitfalls of “chasing the bullet” and achieve accurate zeroing? The key lies in a methodical, patient, and informed approach. This requires a solid understanding of the equipment, the process, and the potential factors that influence bullet trajectory.
Before even attempting to zero your scope, preparation is absolutely vital. The more attention paid to the preparation phase, the more effective and accurate your zeroing process will be.
Understanding the Process
The first step is ensuring your scope is correctly mounted on your rifle. This might seem obvious, but many accuracy issues stem from improper mounting. Use a quality mount that is appropriate for your rifle and scope. Ensure that the scope is properly aligned and level with the rifle’s action. A canted scope (one that is tilted) will cause your shots to drift left or right as the bullet travels downrange. A level reticle is important for accurate shooting. It means that the reticle is perfectly vertical, relative to the target. This helps you maintain consistent aiming. Properly mounted scopes allow for a more precise zeroing process.
Next, consider your rifle and ammunition. Your rifle’s barrel twist rate plays a crucial role in bullet stabilization. Make sure your chosen ammunition is appropriate for your rifle’s twist rate. This information can often be found on your rifle’s barrel or in the manufacturer’s specifications. Selecting the right ammunition for your rifle is critical to achieving accuracy. Different bullet weights and designs perform differently with various barrel twist rates. This compatibility will influence your zero and overall accuracy.
Finally, choose a suitable target and establish a consistent shooting distance. The ideal target will have a clear aiming point. A bullseye target is a common choice, but any target with a distinct aiming point will suffice. The distance you choose will depend on your intended use for the rifle. A common starting point is one hundred yards or yards, but you may choose a closer range such as twenty-five yards to save ammunition during the sight-in process. Be mindful of the effects of wind and other environmental conditions at your chosen distance.
Once your rifle is prepared and you’re ready to shoot, it’s time to commence the process of zeroing your scope. This is where the methodical approach becomes essential.
Beginning the Process
Begin the process by firing a small group of shots. This initial group of shots provides a baseline – a reference point for your scope adjustments. When zeroing your rifle, it’s important to understand that the rifle’s point of impact is the exact spot where the bullets will hit the target at a particular distance. Aim at the center of your target. Fire three to five shots. Observe the point of impact of each shot and identify the center of the group.
Once you have your initial group of shots, it’s time to assess and make adjustments.
Measure the distance and the direction of the group’s center from your intended point of aim. Your goal is to get the center of your group to hit the target at the aiming point. This will let you know what corrections are needed. The measurements of these adjustments are indicated on the scope’s elevation and windage turrets in MOA (Minute of Angle) or MIL (Milliradian) increments. MOA is a unit of angular measurement. One MOA is approximately one inch at one hundred yards. MIL is another unit of angular measurement. One MIL is approximately 3.6 inches at one hundred yards. Familiarize yourself with the adjustment values of your specific scope.
Use your scope’s adjustment turrets (windage and elevation) to move the point of impact. Windage adjustments move the point of impact left or right, while elevation adjustments move it up or down. It’s important to know which way to turn your adjustment turrets to correct the point of impact, be sure to read the instructions that came with your scope. For example, if your shots are hitting two inches to the right and one inch high at one hundred yards with a scope with ¼ MOA adjustments, you will need to adjust your windage turret eight clicks left (2 inches / .25 inch per click = 8 clicks) and your elevation turret four clicks down (1 inch / .25 inch per click = 4 clicks).
After making the initial adjustments, fire another group of shots to confirm. Continue adjusting the scope based on the results of each subsequent group until the group consistently hits your desired zero. The goal is to have the center of your group, at your chosen distance, hitting your point of aim. Make small, precise adjustments.
This iterative process takes time and patience. Don’t rush it. Each small adjustment should move your point of impact closer to your point of aim. Make sure you’re shooting from a stable platform, such as a shooting bench or sturdy rest. This will eliminate many of the variables that can impact your results. Remember, the key is to be methodical, patient, and precise.
Common Mistakes
There are several common mistakes that can sabotage your zeroing efforts. It is important to know what these mistakes are in order to avoid them.
Improper scope mounting is a frequent culprit. If your scope isn’t mounted correctly, it’s virtually impossible to achieve an accurate zero. This is the reason that a scope with a level reticle is important. Ensure it’s properly aligned and level, following the instructions provided with your scope and mounting system.
Another error is not using a solid rest. Shooting from a bench, or using a quality rest, minimizes human error. This provides a consistent platform and allows you to focus on making accurate adjustments.
Rushing the process is another common mistake. Take your time. Don’t try to zero your scope in a hurry. Making hasty adjustments based on a single shot can lead to over-correction. A methodical approach ensures a more accurate and reliable zero.
Ignoring the wind is a critical oversight. Wind can significantly affect bullet trajectory. Observe the wind conditions and factor them into your adjustments, particularly at longer ranges. Consider the direction and speed of the wind when making adjustments.
Finally, not knowing your scope adjustments. Failing to understand how your scope’s adjustment turrets function (MOA or MIL, and the value per click) can result in adjustments that are either too large or too small, leading to frustration and wasted ammunition. Refer to your scope’s manual to understand the adjustment increments.
Further Considerations
While the core of zeroing focuses on these fundamental principles, understanding additional advanced topics might benefit some shooters. Ballistic calculators, for example, are invaluable tools that can help determine bullet drop and wind drift at various ranges.
Zeroing for different distances is often necessary. For example, if you are zeroing for hunting, you may want to zero your scope at a longer distance. If you intend to use the rifle at multiple ranges, you may need to establish a zero for each of those distances.
Knowing how to zero different scopes is a useful skill. Not all scopes are designed or used in the same manner. For example, a scope designed for use in a long-range shooting match will be zeroed differently from a scope designed for hunting. The approach will vary based on the type of scope and the intended use.
Troubleshooting
Even when taking all precautions, issues can arise. Troubleshooting is essential.
What do you do if you can’t get a good group? First, recheck the mounting. Ensure everything is secure and level. Then, check your ammunition. Is it appropriate for your rifle? Try different ammunition to see if that improves grouping.
If you are dealing with consistent errors, consider whether you are holding the rifle consistently. A firm, comfortable position is essential. Ensure you are pulling the trigger smoothly, and not flinching.
Finally, be willing to seek professional help. If you’ve exhausted all other options, there might be something wrong with the scope, the rifle, or the mounting system. A gunsmith can diagnose and correct any issues.
Conclusion
In summary, Do You Chase The Bullet When Sighting In A Scope? The answer is a resounding no. The key to effective scope zeroing lies in a systematic, patient approach that focuses on methodical adjustments rather than reacting to each individual shot.
By following the outlined process, you’ll not only achieve a more accurate and reliable zero but also build confidence in your shooting ability. The payoff will be greater accuracy, enhanced enjoyment of the shooting experience, and a deeper understanding of your rifle and scope.
The most effective approach to zeroing is methodical and patient. It requires an understanding of your scope, your rifle, and the factors that influence the bullet’s flight path. Embrace the process, and you’ll find that consistent accuracy is well within your reach.
If you have any questions, please ask in the comments section below. We love to hear about your shooting experiences. Happy shooting!
