HOLD OVERS MATTERS

Published on January 20, 2026
Duration: 1:48

This video explains the critical concept of bore offset in firearms, particularly for close-quarters combat (CQB). It details how the distance between the optic's center and the barrel's center causes bullet impact to be lower than the point of aim at close ranges. The instructor demonstrates an '8-inch rule' for a specific AR-15 setup, emphasizing the need to 'hold over' the target to achieve center-mass hits and avoid low shots. Drills for both torso and headshots are presented, highlighting the necessity of understanding and applying mechanical offset for accurate engagement.

Quick Summary

Bore offset is the distance between your optic's center and your barrel's center. At close ranges, this causes bullets to impact lower than your aim point. To compensate, you must 'hold over' – aim higher than the target – to achieve accurate hits, especially crucial in CQB.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Understanding Bore Offset
  2. 00:16The 8-Inch Rule & Avoiding Mistakes
  3. 00:36Headshot Holdovers and Drills

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bore offset in firearms?

Bore offset is the distance between the center of your optic's aiming point and the center of your firearm's barrel. At close ranges, this difference means your bullet will impact lower than where you aim, requiring you to compensate.

How do you compensate for bore offset at close range?

You compensate by 'holding over,' which means aiming slightly higher than your intended point of impact. The exact amount, like the demonstrated 8-inch rule, depends on your specific firearm setup and ammunition.

What is the '8-inch rule' mentioned in the video?

The '8-inch rule' refers to a specific demonstration where an approximately 8-inch holdover was needed on a particular AR-15 setup to achieve center-mass hits at close range due to bore offset.

Why is understanding holdover important for CQB?

In Close Quarters Battle (CQB), targets are close and precision is vital. Correctly applying holdover ensures your rounds hit the intended vital areas, rather than striking low, which could be critical in a life-or-death scenario.

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