If My Scope Is Shooting Right, Which Way Do I Adjust?
As I peered down the rifle’s scope, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement mingled with anticipation. The target was set a good distance away, and I was confident in my skills. However, as I squeezed the trigger, I was met with a disappointing result: a clean miss.
Perplexed, I checked my aim and realized that my scope was shooting slightly to the right. To correct this error and ensure more accurate shots in the future, I needed to know which way to adjust.
Understanding Scope Adjustments
Rifle scopes typically feature two adjustment turrets, one for windage (left-right adjustments) and one for elevation (up-down adjustments). Each turret has two scales: one to indicate the direction of adjustment (usually clockwise or counterclockwise) and another to indicate the number of clicks or MOA (minutes of angle).
When adjusting a scope, it’s crucial to remember that adjustments are made in the direction opposite to the error. For example, if your shots are hitting low, you would adjust the elevation turret up. Similarly, if your shots are hitting right, you would adjust the windage turret left.
Making Windage Adjustments
To make windage adjustments, locate the windage turret on your scope. Rotate it in the direction opposite to your error. Typically, this means rotating the turret counterclockwise to move the point of impact to the left, and clockwise to move the point of impact to the right.
The amount of adjustment required depends on the distance to the target and the severity of the error. As a general rule, one click or MOA of adjustment will shift the point of impact by one inch at 100 yards. Therefore, if your shots are hitting 3 inches to the right at 100 yards, you would adjust the windage turret three clicks to the left.
Tips and Expert Advice
- Start with small adjustments: Always begin with small adjustments, such as one click or MOA. This will help you avoid making excessive changes that could further compound the error.
- Check your adjustments: After making an adjustment, fire a few test shots to confirm the change. If the impact point hasn’t shifted enough, make another small adjustment.
- Know your scope: Familiarize yourself with the turrets on your scope and the number of clicks or MOA per adjustment. This will allow you to make precise and consistent adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is windage adjustment?
A: Windage adjustment allows you to correct a scope’s aim in the left-right direction.
Q: Which direction do I turn the windage turret to adjust right?
A: Typically, you would turn the windage turret counterclockwise to adjust right.
Q: How much adjustment do I need to make for a 2-inch error at 200 yards?
A: Assuming one click or MOA shifts the point of impact by one inch at 100 yards, you would need to make two clicks to correct a 2-inch error at 200 yards.
Conclusion
Understanding how to adjust a rifle scope correctly is essential for accurate shooting. By remembering to adjust in the direction opposite to the error, you can quickly correct any misalignment and maximize the precision of your shots.
Are you interested in learning more about scope adjustments or other aspects of precision shooting? Explore the wealth of resources available online or consult with experienced shooters to enhance your skills and knowledge.
