How to Calibrate a Rifle Scope

Every rifle, even two of the same caliber from the same manufacturer, shoots differently. Different types of ammunition will also cause inconsistencies in shooting. For this reason, it is important to calibrate, or sight-in, the scope on your rifle before you use it for hunting or target shooting. The procedure for calibrating your scope is not very difficult, but it does require you to take the time to take your scope and rifle to a shooting range.

Things You'll Need

  • Ammunition (at least two different types)
  • 3 to 5 targets, made from either paper or cardboard
  • Bore sighter
  • Binoculars
  • Scope adjustment tools, as specified by your scope's instructions
  • Felt marker
  • Ear plugs
  • Safety glasses
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place a target 100 yards from where you will be shooting. Insert the bore sighter into the muzzle of your gun and line it up with your scope. This should be done according to the instructions for your specific bore sighter. Look through the scope. The crosshairs from the bore sighter and scope should be in perfect alignment. If not, adjust the bore sighter and the scope until they are.

    • 2

      Remove the bore sighter and load your weapon. Put in your ear plugs and don safety glasses. Aim at the center of your target and fire one round. You do not need to hit the bull's-eye, as long as you hit the target.

    • 3

      Fire three rounds from each of the different types of ammunition you have. Use your binoculars to look at the pattern of the shots. You want all three shots from the same type of ammunition to be together in a small group on the target.

    • 4

      Use the marker to label each type of ammunition on the target. The type that produced the tightest grouping of shots is what you should use going forward. Using that ammunition, continue to test your rifle and scope. Adjust the elevation of the scope until the shots are hitting about three inches above the center of the target. This will allow for wind at longer distances without affecting closer ranges very much.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved