Introduction
The satisfying *thwack* of a well-placed shot, the clean break of a clay pigeon, or the precise placement of a bullet on target – these are the moments that define the shooting experience. But what happens when the target remains untouched? What if, shot after shot, your rounds consistently impact above your intended point of aim? The frustration can be immense, the hours spent at the range seemingly wasted. Accuracy is paramount, whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or a casual enthusiast. A scope is an essential tool in achieving this accuracy, but it’s only as good as its proper adjustment.
This article addresses a common challenge faced by shooters: shots consistently impacting *high*. We’ll delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon, explore the necessary equipment and techniques, and provide a step-by-step guide to help you adjust your scope and bring your shots down where they belong. Our goal is not only to help you solve this problem but also to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to maintain the accuracy of your shooting system. Understanding how your scope functions and how to correct for impact errors is a crucial skill for any shooter who desires consistent, reliable results.
Understanding the Problem: Why Your Scope is Shooting High
Before diving into adjustments, it’s essential to understand *why* your shots are impacting high. Several factors contribute to this, and recognizing them is the first step towards a solution.
Common Causes of High Impacts
One of the most overlooked causes is incorrect scope mounting. If your scope is mounted too high above the bore of your rifle, or if it’s angled even slightly, it can lead to vertical impact errors. Furthermore, if the mounting hardware isn’t properly tightened, it can allow the scope to shift, creating inconsistent results. It is vital to ensure the scope is mounted properly. The scope should be positioned at a comfortable eye relief and the reticle should appear level. Use a level to check your scope during the mounting process; this will help you ensure proper alignment and prevent shooting high.
Then we have the mechanics of scope adjustment itself. Modern scopes utilize adjustment turrets, which typically have markings indicating the amount of adjustment per click. These adjustments are usually measured in MOA (Minute of Angle) or MIL (Milliradians). A MOA is approximately one inch at 100 yards, while one MIL is approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards. Understanding these units is crucial. If your shots are impacting two inches high at 100 yards, and your scope adjusts in ¼ MOA clicks, you would need to make eight clicks of adjustment downward.
The relationship between distance and trajectory plays a critical role. When shooting at longer ranges, gravity has more time to influence the bullet’s path. This is where knowing your bullet’s ballistic coefficient and its drop at various distances becomes important. While high impacts are generally seen as an immediate problem, remember that the target distance always impacts the outcome. At closer ranges, a high impact may indicate a significant adjustment is necessary. As the distance increases, gravity pulls the bullet down, and the necessary adjustments to your scope change.
Scope zeroing is fundamental. This is the process of adjusting your scope to ensure your point of aim (where you are aiming with the crosshairs) matches your point of impact (where the bullet hits the target) at a specific distance. If your scope isn’t properly zeroed, your shots will likely be off in some direction. If you are shooting high at your established zeroing range, the scope needs to be adjusted *downward*.
Parallax, the apparent movement of the reticle relative to the target when you move your eye, can also affect accuracy. If your scope has a parallax adjustment, make sure it is set to the appropriate distance. If the parallax is not corrected, it can introduce errors in the vertical (and horizontal) plane, potentially leading to higher shots.
Finally, *before* touching any adjustments, make sure you’re consistently shooting and using good technique. Are you consistent in your stance, grip, and trigger pull? Are you accounting for wind, if any? Are you sure the rifle is held steady? These factors can easily cause errors, and correcting these before adjusting the scope will prevent you from making adjustments that are not needed.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the adjustment process smoother and more efficient.
First, you will need your rifle and scope. This may seem obvious, but it is essential to ensure all components are properly mounted and functioning.
Next, select the appropriate ammunition for your rifle and intended use. Different bullet weights and types will have slightly different trajectories. Using the same ammunition you’ll use for your shooting session or hunt is ideal.
You will need a target. A paper target with a clear aiming point is recommended. If you’re using steel, make sure the target is at a safe distance and of a proper size.
A stable shooting rest or platform is critical for consistent results. This could be a bench, a shooting bag, or a tripod. The more stable the platform, the more accurate your adjustments will be.
You may need screwdrivers or Allen wrenches, depending on the type of scope mounts you are using. These tools are sometimes needed to make any adjustment needed to the mounting hardware or for adjustments made while the scope is not on the rifle.
A measuring tape is useful for accurately establishing the distance to your target. Precise distance measurements are essential for making accurate adjustments.
A spotting scope or binoculars are optional, but they can be very helpful for observing your shot groups and making quick adjustments without having to walk downrange.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Your Scope to Shoot Lower
Now for the practical part. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you adjust your scope and bring those high shots down.
Start with a pre-adjustment checklist. Make sure your rifle is unloaded and that there are no rounds in the chamber. Verify a stable shooting position and that your rifle is properly rested. Double-check that the target distance is correct. It can save a lot of headaches if the distance is measured accurately. A slight error in distance can cause impact points to be different than anticipated.
Locate the elevation turret on your scope. This turret is usually located on the top of the scope. Some scopes may have a separate elevation adjustment knob.
Familiarize yourself with your scope’s adjustment values, in MOA or MIL. This information should be printed on the turret or in the scope’s manual. Every click of adjustment will move your point of impact a set amount.
Determine the amount of adjustment needed. Fire a group of shots at the target and observe the impact point relative to your point of aim. For example, if your shots are two inches high at 100 yards, and your scope adjusts in ¼ MOA clicks, you’ll need to make eight clicks downward.
Make the adjustment. Turn the elevation turret *downward*. Remember, turning the turret in the direction labeled “down” or marked with an arrow indicating the direction to lower the point of impact will usually bring your shots down. Make small adjustments, typically a few clicks at a time.
After making the adjustment, fire another three-shot group. Observe the point of impact and make further adjustments as necessary. Continue this process, firing groups, adjusting the scope, and re-firing groups until your shots are impacting the target at your desired point of aim.
Repeat the process at different distances. Remember that bullet trajectory will change with distance, so adjustments may be needed for longer ranges.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even when following these steps, you may encounter some challenges. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
What if you are getting consistent grouping, but your shots are still impacting high? Double-check your distance measurement. Even a small error in distance can result in incorrect adjustments. Make finer adjustments to your scope. Sometimes, you’ll need to make very slight movements. And, consider the bullet’s ballistic trajectory, especially at longer ranges. This is where knowing your bullet drop and wind drift becomes more critical.
If you are experiencing inconsistent grouping, several factors could be at play. The rifle action or barrel could be the source of a problem. Inspect the barrel to ensure there are no obstructions and that the action is functioning properly. Make sure you are using consistent shooting techniques. This includes consistent trigger pull, breathing, and eye relief. Experiment with different ammunition types. Different types of ammunition may perform differently in your rifle.
If parallax is an issue, adjust the parallax setting on your scope (if applicable) to match the target distance. Ensure your eye is properly aligned behind the scope. Proper eye alignment will help minimize parallax.
Post-Adjustment Considerations
Once you have your scope zeroed, there are some important things to keep in mind.
Keep a record of your settings. Take notes of the adjustments you made, along with the corresponding distances. This will help you replicate the settings for future shooting sessions or hunting trips.
Practice is essential. Once you have zeroed your scope, continue to practice regularly. Make minor adjustments based on your results and environmental conditions.
Regular maintenance is crucial. Clean your scope lenses regularly to maintain clarity. Periodically check your scope mounting hardware to ensure it is secure. Inspect the scope for any physical damage, such as dents or cracks.
Conclusion
Adjusting your scope to correct for shots that are hitting high requires a systematic approach and an understanding of the factors that influence bullet trajectory. We’ve covered the common causes of high impacts, provided a step-by-step guide to making adjustments, and offered troubleshooting tips to help you fine-tune your setup. By following these guidelines and practicing consistently, you can improve your accuracy and achieve the desired point of impact on target.
Always remember that patience and persistence are key. The learning process can be rewarding. The ability to accurately place shots is a fundamental skill for any shooter, so learning how to adjust a scope is crucial to obtaining that skill. Apply these techniques, and enjoy the satisfaction of consistently hitting your target. The time and effort you invest will pay dividends every time you pull the trigger.
