How to Zero Rifle Scopes: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to precision shooting, few things are more important than properly zeroing your rifle scope. Zeroing ensures that the point of impact matches the point of aim at a specific distance, giving you accuracy and confidence in every shot. Whether you’re a hunter, target shooter, or tactical enthusiast, learning how to zero a rifle scope is an essential skill.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from preparation to fine-tuning.

What Does “Zeroing a Rifle Scope” Mean?

Zeroing a rifle scope means adjusting the elevation (up and down) and windage (left and right) settings so that your bullet hits exactly where your crosshairs are aimed at a chosen distance (commonly 100 yards or meters).

Essentially, it aligns your rifle’s point of aim (POA) with the point of impact (POI).

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following essentials:

l Rifle with mounted scope

l Quality ammunition (use the same type consistently)

l Shooting rest, sandbags, or bipod for stability

l Bore sighter (optional but helpful)

l Targets with clear bullseyes

l Screwdriver or tool for scope turret adjustments

l Rangefinder (optional, for accurate distance measurement)

Step-by-Step Process to Zero a Rifle Scope

1. Choose Your Zero Distance

Most shooters zero at 100 yards/meters, but hunters may prefer 200 yards, and air rifle shooters often use 25–50 yards. Choose a distance that matches your intended use.

2. Secure Your Rifle

Stability is crucial. Place your rifle on a shooting bench with sandbags, a rest, or a bipod. The steadier your rifle, the more accurate your adjustments will be.

3. Bore Sight the Rifle (Optional but Recommended)

If your scope is newly mounted, bore sighting saves time and ammo.

Remove the bolt, look through the barrel at the target, and align it with your scope’s crosshairs.

Or, use a laser bore sighter for faster alignment.

4. Fire Your First Group

Load the rifle with the chosen ammunition.

Fire 3-shot groups rather than single shots; this shows consistency.

Check where the group lands on the target relative to the bullseye.

5. Adjust Elevation and Windage

Use the turrets on your scope:

l Elevation (top turret) adjusts up and down.

l Windage (side turret) adjusts left and right.

l Most scopes adjust in ¼ MOA per click (¼ inch at 100 yards per click). Check your scope’s specifications.

Example: If your group is 2 inches low and 1 inch right at 100 yards, adjust 8 clicks up and 4 clicks left.

6. Fire Another Group

After making adjustments, fire another 3-shot group. Continue fine-tuning until your shots consistently hit the bullseye.

7. Confirm Your Zero

Once centered, shoot multiple groups to confirm accuracy.

Record your zero distance and conditions (ammo type, distance, weather).

Tips for Successful Zeroing

l Use consistent ammunition – different bullet weights or loads can shift impact.

l Don’t chase single shots – always rely on 3–5 shot groups.

l Avoid barrel overheating – let your rifle cool between groups for consistency.

l Check scope mount stability – loose rings or bases will ruin accuracy.

l Zero in good weather – strong wind can affect bullet flight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

l Over-adjusting after each shot instead of after groups.

l Zeroing at too short a distance (25 yards may work for rough alignment but isn’t ideal for final zero).

l Forgetting to lock turrets (if your scope has locking adjustments).

l Using poor-quality rests that allow rifle movement.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to zero a rifle scope is a fundamental shooting skill. With patience, the right tools, and consistent technique, you’ll align your scope perfectly and improve your accuracy dramatically. Whether you’re preparing for hunting season or sighting in at the range, mastering this process ensures every shot counts.