How to Sight In a Rifle: Why Conventional Zeros Aren’t Gospel

By Your Friendly Outdoor Enthusiast - October 2023

Hey there, fellow shooters! If you've ever found yourself scratching your head about how to sight in a rifle, you’re not alone. Whether you’re rocking a short-barreled rifle or a more traditional setup, getting your zero just right can be a bit of a challenge. In this blog, we’ll break down the two main zeroing methods and show you how our AR-15 Rifle Zero Tool can make the process a breeze!

Understanding Zeroing Basics

Let’s start with the basics! Zeroing your rifle means adjusting your sights so that your point of aim matches where your bullet actually strikes. Sounds simple, right? But when it comes to short barrels and tall optics, things can get a bit tricky. Fear not! We’ll help you navigate through it.

The Conventional Zero Approach

The first method we’re diving into is the conventional zero. This is usually set at 100 yards and works beautifully for most setups. However, when you're using short-barreled rifles or higher optics, this method may need some tweaking. Why? Because the trajectory can change significantly depending on your equipment.

Alternative Zeroing Techniques

Now, if you find that the conventional approach isn’t giving you the results you want, consider an alternative zeroing technique like a 50-yard zero or even closer distances. These methods are especially useful if you’re shooting within shorter ranges or using specific gear like AR-15s equipped with optics that sit higher off the bore line.

Using the AR-15 Rifle Zero Tool

This is where our handy AR-15 Rifle Zero Tool comes into play! It’s designed to help you figure out the perfect zero based on your particular setup. Just plug in your details, and voilà—your optimized zero is just a click away. It's as easy as that!

Conclusion

Sighting in your rifle doesn’t have to be rocket science. By understanding both conventional and alternative zeroing methods—and utilizing tools like our AR-15 Rifle Zero Tool—you can achieve accurate shots every time. So grab your gear, head outdoors, and let’s get those shots on target!