Accurate elevation adjustment on your riflescope is crucial for long-range shooting accuracy. Getting your scope dialed in correctly means the difference between a clean hit and a miss, especially at longer distances. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining the mechanics and offering helpful tips for success. Understanding how to adjust elevation on your scope is a fundamental skill for any serious shooter.
Understanding Your Scope's Adjustment System
Most riflescopes utilize a click adjustment system for both windage and elevation. Each click corresponds to a specific amount of adjustment at 100 yards (or sometimes 100 meters). This is usually expressed in minutes of angle (MOA) or milliradians (mils).
- MOA (Minute of Angle): One MOA equals approximately 1 inch at 100 yards. So, a 1/4 MOA click will move your point of impact (POI) 1/4 inch at 100 yards.
- Mils (Milliradians): One mil is approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards. A 1/10 mil click would move your POI 0.36 inches at 100 yards.
Identifying your scope's click value is the first step. Check your scope's manual or the manufacturer's website. This information is crucial for accurate adjustments.
Understanding Turret Types
Riflescope turrets come in a few different styles:
- Tactical turrets: These turrets are usually exposed and offer precise adjustments with tactile clicks, often featuring zero-stop features or locking mechanisms.
- Hunter turrets: Often capped or low profile, these are designed for a less tactical aesthetic and may have less precise adjustments.
- Elevation/Windage Turret Adjustments: These adjustments are typically found on the top (elevation) and side (windage) of the scope.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Elevation
This process assumes you've already zeroed your rifle at a known distance (usually 25 or 100 yards).
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Establish a Safe Shooting Environment: Ensure you're at a safe shooting range with a proper backstop. Follow all range safety rules.
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Proper Rifle Setup: Securely mount your rifle in a rest (bipod or shooting bag) to minimize movement.
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Confirm Your Zero: Fire a few shots at your zero distance to verify your scope is still properly zeroed. This is critical before making further adjustments.
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Identify Your Impact: Observe where your shots are hitting the target. Note the vertical distance between your POI and your point of aim (POA).
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Calculate Adjustments: Using your scope's click value (MOA or mil), calculate the number of clicks needed to adjust your elevation. For example, if your shots are 2 inches low at 100 yards and your scope has 1/4 MOA clicks, you'll need to adjust by 8 clicks (2 inches / 0.25 inches/click = 8 clicks).
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Make the Adjustment: Rotate the elevation turret the appropriate number of clicks up to raise the POI or down to lower it. Many scopes have markings to help track clicks. Always turn the turret in the direction needed to move the impact point towards the center.
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Re-Verify: Fire another group of shots at your zero distance and observe the results. Repeat steps 4-7 until your POI is centered on your POA.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Inconsistent Impacts: If your shots are all over the place, it might be due to factors outside your scope's elevation adjustment, such as poor shooting technique, a faulty rifle, or ammunition inconsistencies.
- Extreme Adjustments Needed: If you need a large number of clicks to adjust your elevation, there might be an issue with your scope mounting or the rifle itself. Consult a gunsmith if needed.
Advanced Techniques and Considerations
- Long-Range Shooting: For long-range shooting, understanding ballistics and the effects of environmental factors (wind, temperature, humidity) is critical. Using a ballistic calculator can help with making accurate elevation adjustments at extended distances.
- Scope Leveling: Ensuring your scope is properly leveled is vital for accurate elevation adjustments. A scope level can help achieve this.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your scope clean and well-maintained to ensure its optimal performance.
Conclusion: Mastering Elevation Adjustment
Mastering the art of adjusting your riflescope's elevation is an essential skill for any shooter, regardless of experience level. By understanding your scope's mechanics, following the steps carefully, and addressing potential issues, you can ensure consistent accuracy at the range and beyond. Remember always to prioritize safety and follow all range rules. Practice makes perfect – the more you practice adjusting your elevation, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become.