Scopes 101 - Zero Stops

Understanding Your Rifle Scope Adjustments: The Basics and Beyond

​When setting up a rifle scope, precision is key, and knowing how to properly zero and adjust it is essential for any shooter. A recent conversation with one of our customers, brought up some great points that many shooters, especially those newer to scopes, might find useful. Here’s a breakdown of our exchange and an educational dive into the world of scope adjustments.

​Question: "Should My Dial Be All the Way Down at Zero?"

​One question the customer asked was about his scope’s elevation dial. He noticed that when his rifle was zeroed, the number 3 appeared under the knob, raising the question: should the dial be cranked all the way down at zero? This is a common query, and understanding how scope adjustments work can clear things up.

​Answer: Scope Dials Don’t Need to Be Bottomed Out at Zero

​When setting your scope to "zero" at your chosen distance (often 100 yards), the elevation and windage dials can land at any point within their range. Contrary to what some believe, they don’t need to be turned all the way down. Scopes are designed to offer the best optical performance when adjustments are near the midpoint. Ideally, your scope will be centered on its column of adjustment, not maxed out in one direction.

​Scope Adjustment Range

Scopes are typically designed with ample adjustment range for both elevation and windage:
Sample Scope- Athlon Talos BTR 4-14x44 in MIL. 

• Elevation: Usually around 20 MIL of total adjustment, meaning you should have about 10 MIL up and 10 MIL down from the center point.
• Windage: Similarly, you should have approximately 10 MIL left and 10 MIL right, offering a total of 20 MIL of windage adjustment.

Locking in Your Zero with a Zero Stop

Once you've zeroed your rifle, you can add a zero stop - shims under the elevation cap or have a precision zero stop. These zero stops prevent the knob from rotating a full revolution below your zero point, ensuring that you’re always aware when you’ve hit zero or have exceeded your intended adjustment range. This setup is especially helpful in dynamic shooting scenarios or when you need quick adjustments without losing your initial zero.

Final Tips for Scope Setup

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1. Find Your Zero: Zeroing at 100 yards is standard, but this can vary based on your preferences and shooting conditions.
2. Balance for Performance: Keep your adjustments as centered as possible for the best optical clarity.
3. Lock Your Zero Stop: Zero stops are easy to install and can make a huge difference in maintaining your zero.

​By understanding these principles, you can maximize your scope's effectiveness and have the confidence to make precise adjustments in the field or at the range. Keep exploring, adjusting, and honing your setup, and remember—BRINK EXCURSIONS is here to support your shooting journey every step of the way!