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How To Properly Adjust A Scope
Tips For Properly Mounting And Adjusting A Scope
Having your scope properly sighted in can mean the difference between landing that deer or scaring the entire forest for no reason. You may be wondering which way to turn the knobs on your scope so you can have accurate results every time you take aim. Learning how to properly adjust your scope can save you a lot of time, aggravation, and wasted rounds.
Generally, before making any knob adjustments a scope needs to be properly mounted and leveled. Then the knobs can be turned forward or backward to adjust the centerline. The eyepiece can be turned in either direction until you have a clear view of your target.
To learn more about how to properly mount and sight in a scope continue reading for helpful information.
Why It’s Important to Properly Adjust Your Scope
Before you start turning any knobs it is essential that your scope is mounted properly. If your scope is not properly mounted it will throw off every other setting and you will have a very difficult time deciphering exactly where your bullet will hit.
This is especially important for those who participate in shooting competitions or are avid hunters. Accuracy is key when using a firearm; you need to be confident that you know where your bullet is headed. Not only is it a matter of accuracy but it is also a matter of safety.
The next section will give tips on how to be sure your scope is mounted and adjusted properly.
How to Properly Adjust Your Scope
When it comes time to adjust and sight in your scope there are three basic stages you will go through. They are as follows:
Mounting Height
The first stage generally only needs to be done one time. It is important that you are comfortable as you look through the scope. This is where you will adjust your scope up or down so that it lines up with your line of sight.
To adjust the scope up or down you will need to purchase scope rings that are taller or shorter depending upon your need. Another option is to buy a cheek rest if the scope is too high.
Adjusting Distance
The next key adjustment will be how close the scope is to your eye. You can simply make this adjustment by loosening the bolts on the rail and sliding the scope closer or farther away from you as needed. Then tighten the bolts; this is another step that should not have to be repeated.
Leveling the Scope
The third adjustment is one that should never be skipped. If your scope is not level it will throw everything off. This cannot be done with the naked eye even if you think you can tell that it is level. There are multiple ways to level a scope. The most popular system is the Wheeler Engineering™ Scope Mounting Kit with Laser Bore Sighter.
For information on which way to turn the knobs on your scope continue reading.
Turning Knobs for the Best Clarity and Accuracy
Now that you have your scope properly mounted you can worry about how to turn the knobs so you can hit your target every time.
Adjusting Focus
Begin by securing a target. Look through the scope and turn the eyepiece all the way to the left or right. It will be very blurry. Then begin turning the eyepiece slowly in the opposite direction until you have a clear view of your target.
Adjusting Elevation
If you find that you are hitting too low or too high you can simply turn the elevation knob on the top of your scope until the centerline is raised or lowered according to your needs.
Adjusting for Wind
If you choose to adjust for wind you will simply turn the knob on the right side of the scope until you have the desired results. Usually, people will not use this adjustment very often because the wind is sporadic and unpredictable. It is more a matter of learning your firearm and how you need to adjust your body in such conditions.
Generally, once you have your eyepiece set you don’t need to fool with it too much unless someone else is using the firearm or you are changing the distance at which you are shooting.
Proper Scope Adjustments Lead to Accurate Shooting
Hopefully, this article has stressed the importance of having your scope properly mounted and adjusted. You will have a safer and more enjoyable shooting experience if your scope is properly adjusted and sighted in. If you are still in need of a little help adjusting your scope stop by your local gun range or sporting goods store and ask a professional for some tips.