How to Sight in a Rifle Scope Without Shooting: A Pro Guide for Hunters
For hunting enthusiasts, accuracy is paramount. A properly zeroed rifle scope ensures that every shot aligns precisely with the target. But what if you can’t (or prefer not to) shoot during the sighting process? Whether you’re conserving ammunition or just can’t access a shooting range, learning to sight in a rifle scope without firing is a valuable skill. Follow these expert steps to achieve reliable accuracy without pulling the trigger.
Why Accurate Zeroing Without Shooting is Important
Zeroing a scope means aligning the crosshairs with the bullet’s point of impact, ensuring your shots are on target. In hunting, accuracy can be the difference between success and a missed opportunity. Properly zeroing a scope without firing a shot saves you ammunition and helps refine your adjustments before final field testing. This approach is especially useful for hunters who want to make quick adjustments in the field without alerting nearby game with test shots.
Pro Tip: At Rock Creek Shooting, we provide comprehensive guides for hunters on everything from scope comparisons to red dot sight reviews, helping you make informed choices on the best hunting accessories.
Step 1: Securely Mount Your Scope
Proper Installation is Key
Before zeroing, check that your scope is securely and correctly mounted. A poorly mounted scope can throw off your zero, causing inconsistent shots. Tighten all screws on the mounting rings and base using an Allen wrench, and make sure the scope is perfectly level with the rifle’s bore. Using a scope leveling tool can be particularly helpful.
Tip: For hunters using a variety of scopes or switching between scopes and red dots, Rock Creek Shooting’s comparison guides can help you find mounting systems that fit different optic types with minimal hassle.
Step 2: Set Up a Target at Your Desired Distance
Finding the Right Distance for Zeroing
Determine the distance at which you want to zero your scope, typically 100 yards for most hunting scenarios. However, if you’re setting up indoors or in a limited area, shorter distances like 25 or 50 yards will suffice. Remember, shorter zeroing distances require adjustments—typically doubling or quadrupling the values—to approximate the point of impact at longer ranges.
Positioning Your Target
For indoor zeroing, a bullseye target works well, but a blank paper with a dot also serves as a quick substitute. Ensure the target is in clear view and stable, giving you an accurate point of reference when adjusting the scope’s crosshairs.
Step 3: Use a Laser Boresight for Precise Alignment
Laser Boresight Benefits
A laser boresight is invaluable for zeroing without firing. This tool projects a laser dot onto the target, allowing you to align your scope with the rifle’s bore visually. The laser beam provides an accurate reference point for adjusting your scope’s windage and elevation.
How to Use a Laser Boresight
- Insert the boresight into the muzzle of your rifle and power it on.
- Look through your scope and locate the laser dot on your target.
- Adjust the scope’s windage and elevation dials until the crosshairs are aligned with the laser.
Step 4: Fine-Tune Your Scope’s Adjustments
Understanding MOA (Minute of Angle)
Most scopes adjust in MOA increments—usually one-quarter inch per click at 100 yards. Knowing your scope’s MOA helps make precise adjustments without firing. For example, if the point of impact needs to shift an inch, you’ll need to adjust by four clicks on a scope with quarter-inch MOA.
Aligning the Crosshairs
Once the laser dot is visible, fine-tune the scope’s windage (left and right) and elevation (up and down) dials until the reticle aligns perfectly with the dot on your target. This alignment ensures that when you do shoot, your shots will be centered without additional tweaks.
Pro Tip: Understanding MOA is essential for field accuracy. Rock Creek Shooting’s in-depth guides to MOA can clarify these adjustments for beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
Step 5: Secure Your Adjustments for Field Use
Re-Check Your Alignment
After aligning, gently nudge the rifle to simulate natural movement and re-check the alignment. A stable alignment during movement ensures that your adjustments hold up even if you’re on the move.
Locking in Your Settings
Finally, secure all adjustments by re-tightening the mounting screws and dials if needed. This final step prevents shifts in alignment, ensuring your rifle is zeroed until you’re ready to test in the field.
Preparing for Field Testing
Even after zeroing without shooting, it’s recommended to test-fire at least once before your hunting trip. Environmental factors and field variables, like wind and elevation, can still affect accuracy. Testing outdoors helps confirm your zero and provides an opportunity to make minor tweaks for the perfect shot.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
By mastering this skill, you save valuable ammunition and are better prepared for zeroing in various environments. This method also allows you to make scope changes without disturbing wildlife or wasting rounds, an advantage every hunter will appreciate.