How to Zero a Rifle Scope in 5 Easy Steps

By clast.com.au | Published: 2026-10-17

Category: How-to Guides

Zeroing your riflescope doesn't have to be complicated. Follow these five straightforward steps to get accurate shots at the range or in the field.

Quick answer

Zeroing a rifle scope means aligning the reticle with the bullet's point of impact at a specific distance. The process takes five steps: secure your rifle, bore-sight for a rough aim, fire a group at 25 yards, adjust windage and elevation, then confirm at your intended zero range. Expect to spend about 20 minutes and 10–20 rounds.

What you need before you start

A stable rest is non-negotiable. Use a shooting bench, sandbags, or a bipod to eliminate as much human movement as possible. You also need a target with a clearly marked aiming point, eye and ear protection, and a set of hex keys or a screwdriver if your scope uses capped turrets. If your riflescope has an illuminated reticle, like the ZEISS Victory V8 4.8-35x60, turn it on to a low setting so the dot doesn't overpower the target at close range.

Choosing your zero distance

Most hunters zero at 100 yards, but starting at 25 yards saves time and ammo. A 25-yard zero keeps your first shots on paper and translates roughly to a 200-yard point-blank range for many centerfire cartridges. For rimfire rifles or airguns, 25 yards is often the final zero distance. If you plan to shoot at longer ranges, confirm at 100 or 200 yards after the initial adjustment.

5 steps to zero your rifle scope

1. Secure the rifle and bore-sight: Mount the rifle in a stable rest. Remove the bolt (if possible) and look through the bore at a target 25 yards away. Without moving the rifle, adjust the scope's windage and elevation knobs until the reticle centers on the same spot the bore sees. If your rifle doesn't allow bore-sighting, use a laser bore-sighter or simply start at 25 yards with a large target. Common mistake: turning the knobs the wrong direction. Remember: windage moves the reticle left or right; elevation moves it up or down. Most scopes label the direction on the cap.
2. Fire a three-shot group at 25 yards: Aim at the center of the target and fire three slow, controlled shots. Use the same point of aim for each shot. The group will likely be low and to one side — that's normal. Measure the distance from the group center to your aiming point in inches or centimeters. Checkpoint: if your group is larger than 2 inches at 25 yards, check your rest, trigger pull, and scope mount torque before adjusting.
3. Adjust windage and elevation: Convert the measured offset into clicks. Most scopes adjust 1/4 MOA per click, meaning 4 clicks move the point of impact 1 inch at 100 yards (or 0.25 inch at 25 yards). For a scope like the Vanguard Endeavor RS IV with zero-reset turrets, you can return the dial to zero after adjustment for easy reference. Turn the turrets the number of clicks needed to move the group center to your aim point. Common mistake: over-adjusting based on one shot. Always use the center of a three-shot group, not a single flier.
4. Confirm at 25 yards and refine: Fire another three-shot group. The point of impact should now be close to your point of aim. If not, repeat the adjustment process. Once the group is centered at 25 yards, you're ready to move to your intended zero distance (typically 100 yards). Checkpoint: at 25 yards, your group should be within 0.5 inch of the aim point. If it's not, re-check your scope mounting and ring alignment.
5. Final zero at your chosen distance: Move the target to 100 yards (or your preferred range). Fire a three-shot group and measure the offset. Make fine adjustments as needed — usually just a few clicks. Once the group is centered, tighten any locking rings or replace turret caps. Your scope is now zeroed. Common mistake: skipping the final confirmation. A 25-yard zero is a shortcut, not a replacement for a true 100-yard zero. Always verify at your intended shooting distance.

Riflescopes that make zeroing easier

ZEISS Victory V8 4.8-35x60 ASV H & S 60 Riflescope: The ZEISS Victory V8 4.8-35x60 features an extra-large eyebox and a multifunction button for quick reticle adjustments. A generous eyebox keeps your sight picture consistent even if your cheek weld shifts slightly between shots, reducing a common source of error during zeroing.
Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50 PLEX Illuminated Reticle Riflescope 52050D: The Vanguard Endeavor RS IV 5-20x50 has precise windage and elevation adjustments with a zero-reset feature. Zero-reset turrets let you dial back to your zero without counting clicks or marking the turret, so you can confidently return to your baseline after a field adjustment.