Zeroing, also known as sighting-in, is the process of adjusting a firearm’s sights or scope so that the point of impact is at the desired point of aim at a specific distance. When a firearm is zeroed, the shooter can be confident that the bullet will hit the intended target at the desired range.
The process of zeroing involves firing shots at a target while making adjustments to the sights or scope until the point of impact matches the point of aim. The distance at which a firearm is zeroed depends on the shooter’s preference, the type of firearm, and the intended use. It is an essential step for any shooter to ensure accuracy and precision when shooting.
Attempting to zero a firearm without firing could result in inaccurate adjustments, which can cause frustration, wasted time, and potentially even dangerous situations if the firearm is used in a real-life scenario. For this reason, it is essential to take the time to zero your firearm properly by firing it at a range to ensure accurate results.
This process involves utilizing a laser bore sighter or a collimator to simulate the point of impact on a target, allowing the shooter to make necessary adjustments to the scope for accurate and precise shooting. In this guide, we will discuss how to zero a scope without firing, including the tools and techniques required to accomplish this task effectively.
The Traditional Way of Zeroing a Scope
The traditional way of zeroing a scope involves firing shots at a target while making adjustments to the scope until the point of impact matches the point of aim. Here are the steps involved in the traditional way of zeroing a scope:
👉 Place a target at the desired distance, typically 100 yards, and ensure that it is secure and free from obstructions that may interfere with the bullet’s path.
👉 Mount the scope on the firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that it is securely attached and aligned with the bore of the barrel.
👉 Use a bore sighter to align the scope with the bore of the barrel. This will ensure that the scope is pointed in the same direction as the barrel.
👉 Fire a single shot at the center of the target to determine where the bullet is impacting the point of aim.
👉 Use the adjustment knobs on the scope to move the reticle or crosshairs to match the point of impact with the point of aim.
👉 Fire several more shots at the target, adjusting the scope as necessary until the point of impact consistently matches the point of aim.
👉 Once you have made the necessary adjustments and achieved a consistent point of impact, verify the zero by firing additional shots and ensuring that they hit the target at the desired point of aim.
Limitations Of Zeroing a Scope
Zeroing a scope is an important step to ensure accuracy and precision when shooting, but there are limitations to the process that shooters should be aware of. Some of the limitations of zeroing a scope are:
Distance
The accuracy of zeroing a scope is dependent on the distance at which it is zeroed. For example, a scope zeroed at 100 yards may not be as accurate at longer or shorter distances.
Ammunition
The type and weight of ammunition used can affect the point of impact, even if the scope is zeroed at the desired distance. This means that if you switch to a different type of ammunition, you may need to adjust your zero.
Environmental factors
Factors such as wind, humidity, and temperature can affect the point of impact of a bullet, even if the scope is zeroed accurately. This means that you may need to adjust your aim or holdover when shooting in different environmental conditions.
Shooter error
The accuracy of zeroing a scope can also be affected by shooter error, such as inconsistent trigger pull or improper positioning.
Mounting errors
If the scope is not mounted correctly or securely, it may shift or move during shooting, affecting the point of impact.
Time
Over time, the zero of the scope may drift or shift, requiring the shooter to re-zero the scope.
Ways Of Zeroing a Scope Without Firing
There are several ways to zero a scope without firing, including using a laser bore sighter, a collimator, or a bore sighter kit. Here are some ways to zero a scope without firing:
Laser bore sighter: A laser bore sighter is a tool that projects a laser beam from the center of the bore to the target, simulating the path of a bullet. To use a laser bore sighter, attach it to the end of the barrel and adjust the scope’s windage and elevation until the reticle aligns with the laser dot on the target.
Collimator: A collimator is a device that helps align the scope with the barrel by projecting a beam of light through the bore. To use a collimator, attach it to the end of the barrel and adjust the scope until the reticle aligns with the beam of light.
Boresighter kit: A bore sighter kit includes a variety of tools, including a bore sighter, to help align the scope with the barrel. To use a bore sighter kit, attach the bore sighter to the end of the barrel and adjust the scope until the reticle aligns with the target image provided by the kit.
Is zeroing a scope without firing as accurate as zeroing with live firing?
Zeroing a scope without firing can be effective, but it’s not always as accurate as zeroing a scope through live firing. It’s always a good idea to verify your zero through live firing if possible, especially if accuracy is critical.
Will zero a scope without firing damage the scope or the firearm?
No, zeroing a scope without firing will not damage the scope or the firearm as long as you follow proper handling and safety procedures for firearms.
Can I zero a scope without a target?
It’s best to have a target to use when zeroing a scope, but you can use other objects, such as a wall or a large piece of paper, as a substitute if a target is not available.
Do I need any special skills to zero a scope without firing?
No, you don’t need any special skills to zero a scope without firing, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the tool you are using and to prioritize safety when handling firearms.
Conclusion
Zeroing a scope without firing can be a useful technique for getting your scope close to zero before you go to the range. There are several tools available, including laser bore sighters, collimators, and boresight kits, that can help you zero your scope without firing.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that zeroing a scope without firing may not be as accurate as zeroing with live firing, and it’s always a good idea to verify your zero through live firing if possible. As always, prioritize safety when handling firearms, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any tools you use to zero your scope.
