Proper sighting in is key for a scope to work at its best. Wanna learn how to zero a scope as quickly as possible? Our method is short and precise. Let’s get right to it so you can spend more time at the range!
Table of Contents
Things to Consider Before Zeroing Your Scope
We know you’re excited, but you can’t just sight in your scope right away. You have to check every single factor that might prevent your optic from maintaining zero and we listed them below for you.
Scope Installation
A poorly installed and shaky scope is a useless scope – might as well unmount it and shoot with your naked eye. If it’s your first time installing a scope, or if it’s a different model from your previous one, read the instruction manual carefully or seek help from an expert. You can also search for helpful videos online.
Scope Mount
Most scopes come with mounts, but if yours didn’t come with one, look for a brand that’s compatible with your scope, else your purchase will be a waste. It’s better to buy your scope and mount at the same store and at the same time so you can have them fitted and installed. If you prefer buying online, then do proper research and buy from authorized shops only.
Boresighter
A boresighter helps in aligning your target and your gun barrel’s true center or bore axis. It’s the perfect tool if you want to sight in a red dot scope without shooting.
You can use a collimator that’s attached to the muzzle through a bore-diameter arbor and then projects a grid pattern to the sight picture. You can also use a laser boresighter, which creates a red dot on the target for easier zeroing in.
- [Upgraded to 32 Numbered Adapters]: Bore sight kit comes with 32 adapters, it provides a more precise range differentiation for calibers, perfectly suitable for any caliber within the range of...
- [Preset Straight and Bright Laser]: Laser visible distance reaches 15-100 yards. Green laser has a greater wavelength distance compared to red laser, making it more suitable for long-distance zeroing....
- [High Precision]: Strictly check the laser centering detection of the instrument, providing excellent accuracy, saving cartridges and shells. Allows you to achieve consistent and accurate shooting,...
- [New Upgraded 64 Adapters] Visiofire Laser bore sighter kit with 64 innovative manual knob adapters, suitable for any calibers from .17 to 12GA. Each adapter is marked with distinct serial numbers and...
- [Impeccable Accuracy] Our laser bore sighter kit has been rigorously tested with almost every type, ensuring each component meets the highest quality standards. It offers unparalleled accuracy and...
- [Updated-Version Enhaced-Power Lazer] High Power 520NM Green Laser Desighed for Long Range Zeroing: Professional ultra-stable green beam, providing visibility with 400 yards, can be calibrated...
- [Upgraded Laser Bore Sight]: Upgraded version improves its accuracy and stability, longer sighting range, allows you to quickly and accurately target any scene or object. Laser class: IIIa. Max....
- [Ultra-long battery life]: After testing and comparison, we have selected the upgraded CR2 batteries with longer battery life and longer service life than others, providing you with a better...
- [Big button switch, easy to use]: Big and sensitive button switch, just lightly press to turn ON/OFF the laser, easier and more convenient to control. Comes with tools, only need to choose appropriate...
Target
Make sure your target is just the right size and that it’s stable and is properly positioned at your desired distance. You don’t have to splurge on a shooting target, you can make your own at home. Here’s a video on how to make a DIY shooting target.
Rifle Position on the Shooting Bench
Your rifle’s position on the shooting bench (if you’re using one) is a big factor in accuracy. Position your rifle so that it stays stable all throughout your shooting practice, no matter how tough the recoil is. The type of zeroing-in that makes use of a shooting platform is called Supported Sighting In. There are commercially available shooting benches that you can look up. But if you’re a handy guy (or gal), you can make one yourself.
Aside from your weapon’s steady position, your posture also plays a major role. You won’t be able to perform your best if you’re not comfortable with your stance.
And above all, everything needs to be repeatable! Learning to hold and fire the weapon the same way every time is key to next-level accuracy!
How to Zero a Scope
Step 1: Determine your Starting Range
After you’ve set up your rifle on the shooting bench (if you’ll be using one), do an estimate of how far away you’ll be placing your target from the bench.
Your starting range depends on your cartridge and expected target range. If you’ve been shooting for a while, you should already know what to do. But if you’re a beginner, remember that the ideal zeroing-in distance for pistols is 15 yards and 50-100 yards for rifles.
Step 2: Boresight your Weapon (Optional)
An optical or laser boresighter can get you close without even firing a round, which comes in handy when ammo is so expensive! It’s up to you if you want to use one or not.
Step 3: Fire a Few Rounds
Here comes the part you’ve been waiting for! We know ‘coz it’s also our favorite part, LOL. Now that everything is set, it’s time to fire a few rounds. Remember to take your time to control your breathing and make accurate shots, the whole process depends on it!
Step 4: Adjust the Scope so the Group’s Center Matches the Point of Aim
After firing a few rounds, check where your shots landed. If you hit the bullseye, good for you! Carry on! But if your shots are way off, then adjust your reticle relative to the center of your group.
Step 5: Repeat Until Satisfied with the Accuracy
Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you’ve achieved your desired accuracy. Keep in mind that beginners rarely get it on the first try, and that’s fine! Just keep trying and practicing and you’ll become an expert in no time!
Conclusion: How to Zero a Scope
Like most shooting enthusiasts and hunters, you’ll be relying a lot on your scope in extending your shooting range and improving your accuracy. Remember, even the best military scope can’t help you if it’s not zeroed properly. Make sure to follow our tips above and you’ll be shooting tighter groups after just a few trips to the range.
If you haven’t bought one yet, here’s our comprehensive guide on how to choose a rifle scope.
Last update on 2026-06-23 / Images from Amazon Product API