How to Zero Your Scope with Two Shots

by
posted on July 23, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
short_range_zero_f.jpg

The best distance to put the target is 100 yards. Make sure that the scope is bore sighted so it will at least hit the paper. If in doubt, it helps to have a big backstop like a 4X8 sheet of plywood. Cover this with newspaper or other material.

Always use a shooting bench and sand bags or other appropriate rest.

Set your scope on its highest power. Aim for the center of the target. Carefully fire a shot.

The bullet hole should be on the paper. If not, move the target closer or add more paper to increase the surface area.

Use a ruler to measure straight across from the center of the bullet hole to a vertical line that will intersect the center of the target. Mark this number down. Now measure up or down to the horizontal line that intersects the center of the target and record that number.

Adjust your scope to move the point of impact the distance you measured. If you have quarter-minute adjustments on your scope, you will need to make 4 clicks for each inch of movement at 100 yards.

Fire another shot. It should impact exactly in the center of the target.

If not, repeat the process.

Latest

Photo 01 Lead
Photo 01 Lead

North Fork Bullets: The Reintroduction of an Icon

Fans of hard-hitting hunting bullets rejoice! North Fork bullets is back and action, and better than ever. Phil Massaro breaks down the latest from this storied company.

First Look: Ol' Man Outdoors Clamp Down Jaw and Stabilizer Truss Systems

Ol'Man Outdoors, has introduced two advanced technologies that enhance the safety and effectiveness of ladder stands. The Clamp Down Jaw System securely locks the ladder stand to a tree before a hunter ever leaves the ground, while the Stabilizer Truss System enhances ladder stability, provides more tree options and eliminates unwanted noise.

New World Screwworm Closing the Gap to the Border

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced in April that the New World Screwworm (NWS) is closer to the Texas border than ever before in this latest outbreak. On April 20 Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller warned, “The threat of the New World screwworm is creeping dangerously close to our border. A confirmed case in Nuevo León, just about 60 miles from the United States, in a young calf is a flashing red warning sign we will not ignore.”

10mm Auto Pistol Caliber Carbines: The 'Best' Outdoor Option?

Last year we posed the question, "Is the 10mm Auto PCC the next great outdoor carbine?" while taking a look at a few of the models currently in production. Since then, the selection has continued to grow. Are the PCCs chambered for 10mm Auto the most powerful options out there? The answer is yes, and no. It's a matter of context. Let's take a look at what these carbines have to offer compared to those chambered in other handgun calibers.

New for 2026: Updated Federal Upland Steel

Federal Ammunition has two new 12-gauge loads in its Upland Steel shotshell lineup. Built for consistent patterns and hard-hitting performance with non-lead shot, these new offerings are being delivered to retailers nationwide and expand the versatility of the Upland Steel product line.

New for 2026: ATN TICO 6 Thermal Clip-On

ATN Corp. has announced it's TICO 6 Thermal Clip-On, a next-generation thermal clip-on designed for hunters looking for a thermal upgrade to their favorite daytime scope.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.