How to Calculate Scope Clicks for Zeroing: A Complete Guide for Hunters

Zeroing in a rifle scope is essential for precise shooting, allowing you to align your aim with the bullet’s impact point accurately. Whether you’re out hunting or target shooting, understanding the process and calculating the correct scope clicks can make all the difference. Here’s a detailed guide on calculating scope clicks for zeroing and getting your rifle ready for action.

Understanding Scope Clicks and Zeroing

Zeroing, or “sighting in,” your scope means aligning the crosshairs with the exact point where the bullet hits. Most modern scopes use minute of angle (MOA) adjustments, meaning each “click” moves the crosshairs a specific distance, such as 1/4 MOA or 1/2 MOA per click. This movement is typically calibrated at 100 yards, with 1 MOA roughly equivalent to 1 inch at 100 yards.

For the best accuracy, follow these essential steps to zero in your scope, taking the time to understand your scope’s specific settings and characteristics.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Target and Determining Distance

Before beginning any adjustments, properly set up your target and determine a comfortable distance. For most hunters, 100 yards is the standard zeroing distance. However, if you prefer to start closer (e.g., at 25 or 50 yards), be aware that the adjustments you make will need to be multiplied to maintain accuracy at 100 yards.

1. Select a target: A bullseye or large piece of paper with a clear center point works well.
2. Position the target: Ensure the target is securely placed at your chosen distance to minimize shifting during shooting.
3. Double-check scope mounting: Ensure your scope is mounted correctly to prevent any misalignment that could throw off your adjustments.

Step 2: Using Boresight for Initial Alignment

A boresight device can help you get your crosshairs close to the target before you even fire a shot. Laser bore sights are popular and attach easily to the muzzle, projecting a laser dot on your target to give you an initial sight line.

1. Attach the boresight: Secure it to the muzzle and align the crosshairs with the laser point on your target.
2. Adjust the dials: Using the scope’s windage and elevation dials, move the crosshairs so they align with the laser. This sets up a preliminary zero that will be fine-tuned through shooting.

Using a boresight minimizes the number of initial shots needed, saving time and ammo while increasing accuracy from the start.

Step 3: Taking the First Shot Group

With your boresight complete, it’s time to fire a group of shots to check your initial zero. Shooting in three-round groups is standard practice, as it helps identify whether your scope is accurately zeroed or if further adjustments are needed.

1. Secure the rifle: Use a rifle rest to keep the gun steady and minimize human error. A quality rest will hold your rifle firm, preventing pull or sway that can throw off your shot.
2. Fire three shots: After each shot, wait for the barrel to cool slightly to maintain consistent accuracy.
3. Examine the group: Check where your shots hit the target relative to your aim point. Ideally, the group should be tight and centered on the target.

This step reveals whether you need to adjust your scope’s windage (left or right) or elevation (up or down) to align the impact with the crosshairs.

Step 4: Adjusting Scope Clicks for Precise Accuracy

This is where the actual scope-click calculations come in. Depending on the distance and the scope’s MOA per click, you’ll use these values to bring your shots closer to the target.

1. Identify the MOA adjustment: Most scopes are either 1/4 or 1/2 MOA per click. At 100 yards, each click moves the crosshair by 1/4 inch or 1/2 inch, respectively.
2. Calculate your clicks: Measure how far the shot group is from the target’s center in inches. Divide this measurement by the scope’s click value (e.g., 1/4 inch per click) to determine the number of clicks needed.
   • Example: If your shots are 2 inches low and your scope adjusts by 1/4 MOA per click, you’ll need 8 clicks (2 ÷ 0.25) to move the point of impact up by 2 inches.
3. Adjust windage and elevation: Use the dials on your scope to make the necessary adjustments, clicking in the appropriate direction (up, down, left, right).
4. Fire another group: After each adjustment, fire another three-shot group to see how close you are to the target center. Repeat this process as needed.

For a handy calculation tool, check out scope calculator, which simplifies the math and helps you determine the exact clicks required based on your scope’s MOA and distance.

Step 5: Finalizing and Reconfirming Your Zero

Once you’re consistently hitting the bullseye or your desired target area, you’ve nearly zeroed your scope. Now, it’s time to confirm and fine-tune.

1. Shoot multiple groups: Fire a few more three-shot groups to verify the accuracy of your adjustments.
2. Account for environmental conditions: Factors like wind and temperature can affect bullet trajectory. Zero your scope in similar conditions to those you’ll hunt in to minimize discrepancies.
3. Final adjustments: If necessary, make small tweaks in clicks to fine-tune your zero. With every new adjustment, remember to shoot another group to confirm.

Proper zeroing may take a few rounds, but achieving precision is worth the effort. A well-zeroed scope leads to cleaner, more accurate shots, especially critical in hunting where every shot counts.

Additional Tips for a Successful Zeroing Experience

• Avoid overheating the barrel: Continuous shooting heats the barrel, which can affect accuracy. Allow the rifle to cool between groups.
• Maintain consistency: Always use the same stance, grip, and trigger pull when shooting. Variations in posture can impact your results.
• Remember each scope is unique: Every scope has slightly different calibration and characteristics. Take time to understand your specific model to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

Zeroing in your scope and calculating scope clicks might seem complex, but with the right process, it’s straightforward. From setting up your target to calculating clicks and fine-tuning your scope, each step builds upon the last for an accurate, reliable setup. Properly zeroed scopes give hunters a distinct advantage, ensuring that each shot lands where intended.