Is Your Scope Lying To You?

Published on September 19, 2023
Duration: 18:42

This video demonstrates a practical method for vetting the accuracy of rifle scope turrets. By shooting groups at calculated distances and measuring the actual impact shift after dialing a specific amount, shooters can determine the true mechanical movement per click or unit of adjustment. This process is crucial for ensuring ballistic software accuracy and achieving precise shots at extended ranges, as even high-end scopes can have slight deviations.

Quick Summary

You can test your scope's accuracy by shooting two groups at 100 yards with a significant dial adjustment between them. Measure the actual impact shift, divide by the number of clicks dialed, and compare this to the manufacturer's stated value. This ensures your ballistic software is accurate and your shots are precise.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Scope Accuracy
  2. 00:45Meet the Experts and Setup
  3. 01:12Why Vetting Scopes Matters
  4. 02:09The 100 Yard Test Explained
  5. 03:04Understanding Minute of Angle (MOA)
  6. 04:04Impact on Ballistic Software
  7. 05:40The Test Procedure
  8. 08:00First Shot Group
  9. 09:42Dialing for the Second Group
  10. 11:15Second Shot Group and Initial Results
  11. 11:37Math and Calculations
  12. 12:16Scope 1: Deviation Analysis
  13. 13:18Scope 2: Deviation Analysis
  14. 15:35Are Any Scopes 100% Accurate?
  15. 16:12Knowing Your Scope's True Value
  16. 17:02Conclusion: Trust But Verify

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I test if my rifle scope is accurate?

You can test your scope's accuracy by setting up a target at 100 yards, shooting a three-round group, then dialing a significant amount of adjustment (e.g., 30 MOA). Shoot a second group and measure the actual vertical shift between the mean impacts. Divide this measurement by the number of clicks or units dialed to find the true per-click value and compare it to the manufacturer's specification.

What is the actual value of one minute of angle (MOA)?

One minute of angle (MOA) is precisely 1.047 inches at 100 yards. This is a critical measurement for long-range shooting, as approximating it to 1 inch can lead to significant errors in bullet placement over distance.

Why is it important to vet my scope's turret accuracy?

Vetting your scope's turret accuracy is crucial because scopes can deviate from their advertised click values. If your scope's adjustments are not precise, your ballistic software calculations will be inaccurate, leading to missed shots, especially at longer ranges. Knowing the true per-click value allows for precise adjustments.

Can high-end rifle scopes be inaccurate?

Yes, even high-end rifle scopes can exhibit inaccuracies in their turret adjustments. While premium brands like Nightforce and Leupold Mark 5 are generally more precise, deviations from the stated specifications are not uncommon. It's rare to find a scope that is 100% accurate.

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