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How to Adjust a Tactical Scope

The basic operations of tactical scopes are very similar to traditional sporting scopes. The primary difference between the two is that a tactical scope can be used to estimate distance. The crosshairs on a tactical scope are typically produced with ranging marks, or mil-dots, along their length. Information gathered by using the ranging marks and a simple math equation can help you estimate the range to target in meters.

Instructions

- 1
  Zero in your scope by adjusting the crosshairs to intersect on your rifle's projected point-of-impact. You can find your projected point-of-impact by either firing live ammunition at a target and recording where the bullets hit the target in relation to your aim point, or by using a laser boresighter, which sends a laser beam from your rifle barrel to your target. The axes of your scope crosshairs are adjustable with the dials located on top and on the right side of your scope.
- 2
  Determine your range to target by referencing a target of known height in meters. Align your horizontal cross-hair with a base of your target and count the number of mil-dots to the top of your target. Divide your target height by the number of mil-dots and multiply your answer by 1,000. For example if you target height is 1 meter high and your mil-dot count is 2, then your equation is: (1 ÷ 2) x 1,000 = 500. Your target range is 500 meters.
- 3
  Set your parallax error adjustment to the range of your target. Parallax error is the illusion of target movement often encountered when viewing a distant target at a high magnification; the illusion is caused by shifts in the shooter's line of sight. The adjustment for parallax error is either on the scope objective bell or on the left side of your scope; set the adjustment to your target range. Parallax error adjustment is more commonly found on long-range tactical scopes.

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