How to Zero a Red Dot Sight: A Step-by-Step Guide
Zeroing a red dot sight is about aligning your rifle’s Point of Impact (POI) with the red dot’s fixed position, not moving the dot itself. This mindset simplifies the process: you’re adjusting the bullet’s impact to match where the dot is aimed using the sight’s adjustment dials. This guide will walk you through zeroing your red dot sight at home or at the range, assuming your sight is already securely mounted. For comparison, a similar process applies to scopes like the Odin 1-8×24 FFP LPVO Rifle Scope, but here we focus on red dots.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these essentials:
- A firearm with a securely mounted red dot sight
- Consistent ammunition (use one type for zeroing)
- A shooting rest, sandbags, or bench for stability
- Paper targets with a clear bullseye or grid
- A small adjustment tool (often a flathead or included with the sight)
- Eye and ear protection (mandatory)
Step 1: Select Your Zero Distance
Choose a zeroing distance based on your firearm and its intended use:
- 25 yards: Ideal for pistols or home defense rifles
- 36 yards: Popular for AR-15s, balancing ballistic performance
- 50 yards: A versatile zero for rifles
- 100 yards: Best for longer ranges, though less common for red dots due to dot size
Stick to your chosen distance throughout the process.
Step 2: Fire an Initial Group
Set up your target at the selected distance and fire a 3-5 shot group, aiming at the same point each time. Use a rest to reduce human error. Your goal is to establish a consistent shot pattern, not to hit the bullseye yet. A tight group shows your shooting consistency and provides a reliable average for adjustments.
Step 3: Measure and Adjust the Point of Impact
Check where your shots landed relative to your aiming point. Are they high, low, left, or right? Red dot sights adjust in small increments, typically measured in Minutes of Angle (MOA), via elevation (up/down) and windage (left/right) dials.
Understanding Adjustments
- Elevation (Vertical): If shots are low, adjust the POI up. For example, on many red dots, turning the top dial counter-clockwise (often marked “U” for up) shifts the POI upward. Clockwise moves the POI down.
- Windage (Horizontal): If shots are right, adjust the POI left. A dial marked “R” with an arrow indicates counter-clockwise shifts the POI right, while clockwise shifts it left.
- MOA Basics: Most red dots adjust in 1/2 MOA increments (0.5 inches at 100 yards, 0.25 inches at 50 yards, 0.125 inches at 25 yards). For example, if your group is 2.5 inches left and 1 inch high at 25 yards:
- Windage: Adjust counter-clockwise by 20 clicks (2.5 ÷ 0.125 = 20).
- Elevation: Adjust counter-clockwise by 8 clicks (1 ÷ 0.125 = 8).
Focus on moving the POI to align with the red dot, not chasing the dot itself.
Step 4: Confirm and Fine-Tune
Fire another 3-5 shot group after adjusting. Check if the group has moved closer to your aiming point. Repeat the measure-and-adjust process until your shots consistently hit where the red dot is aimed. Use a rest to ensure accuracy, and take your time with each shot for a reliable zero.
Additional Tips for Zeroing a Red Dot
- Start with a Rough Zero at Home: Use a laser boresight (muzzle-mounted or cartridge-style) to align the red dot with the bore line indoors or in a safe outdoor space. This gets you close before heading to the range for fine-tuning.
- Leverage a Laser Boresight: A laser boresight provides a visible reference, making it easier to understand how adjustments shift the POI. A $50 boresight from a retailer like Sportsman’s Warehouse can save ammo. For muzzle-mounted models, use masking tape to prevent barrel scratches.
- Zeroing an AR-15: Remove the upper from the lower, take out the bolt copyright, and set the upper on a stable surface. Look through the barrel at a target (e.g., 50 yards), then adjust the red dot to align with the target. This rough zero prepares you for live-fire adjustments.
- Visit a Range for Precision: Indoor ranges like Threat Dynamics offer stable surfaces and controlled distances, ideal for zeroing, especially for pistols. Consider one-on-one instruction from a range safety officer (RSO) for feedback.
- Ensure a Secure Mount: A loose mount causes inconsistent zeros. Double-check that your red dot is tightly secured to the firearm to prevent movement during recoil.