Zero Hour: How to Sight-In Your Rifle

Ensuring that your optic is perfectly dialed in with your rifle is critical to shooting success. Here are Melissa Bachman's step-by-step instructions.

posted on December 28, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

One of the most surprising aspects of how rifles work for many new gun owners is the fact that, even if a rifle comes out of the box with a scope already mounted, it probably won't hit exactly where you're aiming until you sight-in the gun and optic. You may have also heard it referred to as "zeroing" or "zeroing in," and it's a critical part of your ability to be accurate with your rifle. 

In this terrific video starring Winchester pro staffer (and NRA Women contributor) Melissa Bachman, you'll learn the procedure for sighting-in your rifle and riflescope. It's actually quite easy to do; all you'll need is your usual range gear, your new rifle/optic combination, a few cartridges and under half an hour on the range. This procedure will help ensure that your bullets impact your target even at long ranges, which is important on the firing line—and absolutely critical while hunting.

Latest

Charter Arms Pathfinder II 22LR Odgreen Black Passivate
Charter Arms Pathfinder II 22LR Odgreen Black Passivate

New Guns 2025: Charter Arms Pathfinder II .22 LR Revolver Series

Offered in three models, the .22 LR revolver is designed for both experienced shooters and beginners, making it an ideal choice for sport shooting, small game hunting and personal protection.

Gun Gear: Splurge or Cheap Out?

For hunting and shooting, what items should you prioritize spending money on to buy the best you can afford and what can you save money on by going cheap?

Risk Mitigation: Are You Worried About the Wrong Things?

Are you spending too much time worrying about things that don’t matter and ignoring the dangers you’re statistically more likely to face?

 

Celebrating 26 Years of Legacy and Leadership: Women On Target at the Oklahoma City Gun Club

The iconic gathering has become a national benchmark for women’s shooting clinics, blending community, education and marksmanship at a scale rarely seen elsewhere.

The Armed Citizen® Reload September 12, 2025

Shots to the legs were enough to stop two separate violent attacks against women.

Smith & Wesson Announces Grand Opening of World-Class Training Academy

The Smith & Wesson Academy team will be led by renowned instructor Mark “Coch” Cochiolo, a retired U.S. Navy Chief Warrant Officer with more than three decades of service in Naval Special Warfare.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.