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How to Use a Target Scope

It's easy to use a target scope once you understand the basics of scope operation. Target scopes are often categorized as varmint scopes and can be used for long-range shooting (depending on the particulars of the scope). Target scopes are usually designed with variable power settings, allowing shooters to change the scope magnification as they see fit. For instance, if a target scope is described as 6x24 variable power, that indicates that the lowest power setting is a magnification of six times and the highest is 24.

Things You'll Need

Borsighter (if necessary)

Instructions

- 1
  Sight in your target scope (if required) by centering the crosshairs on the bullet's projected point-of-impact. The point-of-impact can be determined by using a bore-sighting device or by firing your gun at a target and observing the bullet hole. The horizontal crosshair is adjusted by turning the dial on the top of the scope counter-clockwise for up and clockwise for down. The vertical crosshair is adjusted by turning the dial on the side of the scope counter-clockwise for right and clockwise for left.
- 2
  Change the target scope's power setting by rotating the adjustment ring located just before the eyepiece. The ring numbers indicate a particular power setting; line up the desired number with the dot on the top of the scope to set the scope to that magnification.
- 3
  Adjust the scope for parallax error for extreme distances (if available on your scope). Parallax is an optical illusion of target movement created by changes in the shooter's line of sight. Most target scopes have a manual parallax correction setting on the objective bell. Adjust the scope by lining up the distance settings with the dot on top of the scope.

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