How to Zero your Optic

How to Zero a Scope and Iron Sights:

Zeroing your firearm—whether with an optical scope or iron sights—is critical for precision shooting. A properly zeroed sight ensures your point of aim matches your point of impact, whether you’re hunting, competing, training or using your firearm in a critical self-defense moment. At ArmsUnlimited.com, we offer top-quality optics, scopes, red dots, iron sights, and accessories to help you achieve pinpoint accuracy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to zero both an optical sight and iron sights, providing expert tips to get your firearm dialed in.
Why Zeroing Your Firearm Matters
 
Zeroing aligns your sights with your bullet’s trajectory at a specific distance. Without it:
  • Shots miss the mark, reducing effectiveness.
  • Accuracy suffers, especially at longer ranges.
  • Confidence in your firearm diminishes.
With the right tools and techniques—many available at ArmsUnlimited.com—you can zero your firearm like a pro. Let’s dive into how to zero both optical scopes and iron sights.
Tools You’ll Need
 
Before starting, gather these essentials (shop them at ArmsUnlimited.com):
  • Firearm and ammunition
  • Optical scope or iron sights (installed)
  • Screwdriver or Allen keys (for adjustments)
  • Shooting rest or sandbags
  • Target (with a clear aiming point)
  • Range (25-100 yards, depending on preference)
  • Bore sight tool (optional, for scopes)
Always ensure your firearm is unloaded during setup and follow range safety protocols.
How to Zero an Optical Scope
 
Optical sights, like red dots or magnified rifle scopes, offer precision but require careful adjustment. Here’s how to zero one.
Steps:
  1. Mount the Scope: Securely attach your scope to your firearm using a mount from ArmsUnlimited.com. Ensure it’s level and tight.
  2. Set Up at the Range: Place your target at an initial distance (typically 25 yards for rifles, adjustable later).
  3. Bore Sight (Optional): Use a bore sight tool to roughly align the scope with the barrel. This saves ammo and time.
  4. Fire a Test Group: From a stable rest, shoot 3-5 rounds at the target’s center. Note the group’s position relative to the bullseye.
  5. Adjust the Turrets:
    • Windage (horizontal): Turn the side turret to move the point of impact left or right.
    • Elevation (vertical): Turn the top turret to move the point of impact up or down.
    • Check your scope’s manual for clicks per inch (e.g., 1/4 MOA = 1/4 inch at 100 yards).
  6. Shoot Again: Fire another group and adjust until the group hits the bullseye.
  7. Confirm at Desired Distance: Move the target to your final zero distance (e.g., 100 yards) and fine-tune adjustments.
  8. Lock It In: Tighten any turret caps and test with a final group.
Pro Tip: Scopes from ArmsUnlimited.com often include detailed manuals for MOA or MIL adjustments—perfect for beginners and pros alike.
How to Zero Iron Sights
 
Iron sights—whether fixed or adjustable—are rugged and reliable. Zeroing them varies slightly depending on the type (e.g., AR-15 A2 sights vs. pistol sights).
Steps:
  1. Understand Your Sights:
    • Front Sight: Often adjustable for elevation (height).
    • Rear Sight: Typically adjustable for windage (left/right), sometimes elevation.
  2. Set Up at the Range: Place a target at 25 yards to start (or 10 yards for pistols).
  3. Fire a Test Group: Shoot 3-5 rounds from a stable position, aiming at the center.
  4. Adjust the Sights:
    • Windage: If shots are left, move the rear sight right (or front sight left). Reverse for shots to the right.
    • Elevation: If shots are low, raise the front sight (or lower the rear, if adjustable). Reverse for high shots.
    • Use a sight adjustment tool or screwdriver as needed.
  5. Shoot Again: Fire another group and tweak until centered on the bullseye.
  6. Confirm at Final Distance: For rifles, move to 50 or 100 yards; for pistols, 15-25 yards. Adjust as necessary.
  7. Secure Adjustments: Tighten any screws or lock the sights in place.
Example: On an AR-15 with A2 sights, turn the front sight post clockwise to lower the impact, counterclockwise to raise it. Rear windage knobs shift left or right per clicks.
Bonus: Shop adjustable iron sights at ArmsUnlimited.com for easy zeroing.
Key Tips for Zeroing Success
  • Consistency: Use the same ammo type and weight for zeroing and shooting.
  • Stability: A shooting rest or bipod (available at ArmsUnlimited.com) minimizes human error.
  • Patience: Small adjustments prevent over-correction.
  • Environment: Account for wind or lighting when zeroing outdoors.
Zeroing Distances by Firearm Type
  • Pistols: 10-25 yards (iron sights or red dots).
  • Rifles: 25-100 yards (scopes or iron sights, depending on use).
  • Shotguns: 25-50 yards (scopes for slugs; iron sights for close range).
Adjust based on your firearm’s purpose—hunting, self-defense, or target shooting.
Common Zeroing Mistakes to Avoid
  1. Rushing Adjustments: Over-turning turrets or sights wastes time and ammo.
  2. Ignoring Ammo Variability: Different loads can shift impact points.
  3. Poor Mounting: A loose scope or sight ruins consistency—use quality mounts from ArmsUnlimited.com.
 
Ready to zero your firearm with confidence? Visit ArmsUnlimited.com for:
  • High-performance optics
  • Back-up iron sights
  • Bore sighters and shooting rests
Whether you’re zeroing a scope on a rifle or iron sights on a pistol, our products ensure accuracy and durability. Shop now and hit your mark every time!