Zeroing Basics (Without Overthinking It)

Zeroing doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s not about chasing perfection — it’s about getting close, confirming, and moving on.

A lot of frustration at the range comes from trying to do too much, too fast. The goal of zeroing is simple: make sure your optic and your firearm agree.

Start Close

Begin at a short distance. This keeps adjustments small and obvious. If something’s off, you’ll see it right away instead of guessing at longer ranges.

You’re not locking in your final zero here — you’re just getting aligned.

Focus on Groups, Not Single Shots

One round doesn’t tell you much. Shoot a small group, then look at the average. That’s what you adjust to.

Chasing individual shots usually leads to overcorrecting and wasted ammo.

Make Small Adjustments

Big changes feel productive, but they usually cause more work. Small clicks, then re-check. Let the process do its thing.

Slow is smooth. Smooth is efficient.

Keep Your Setup Consistent

Same ammo. Same position. Same rest or support.
Changing variables mid-zero makes it hard to know what actually worked.

Consistency beats guessing every time.

Confirm and Move On

Once you’re hitting where you want, confirm with a final group and call it good. You can always fine-tune later if needed.

Zeroing isn’t the main event — shooting is.