Rifle Scopes Lose Zero While Sitting Inside a Safe?

Published on November 4, 2022
Duration: 8:44

This video debunks the myth that rifle scopes lose zero while stored. It identifies three primary reasons for perceived zero loss: improper scope mounting, ammunition selection differences, and barrel fouling after cleaning. The instructor demonstrates how loose mounting screws and shifted turrets can cause issues, and shows how different bullet weights can alter point of impact. A year-long test confirms a scope can maintain zero when properly mounted and the rifle is not subjected to external factors.

Quick Summary

Rifle scopes generally do not lose zero while stored. Common causes for perceived zero loss include improper scope mounting with loose screws, accidental adjustment of exposed turrets, changes in ammunition type or weight, and the removal of copper fouling during cleaning.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Scope Zero Test
  2. 00:16Short Answer: Scopes Don't Lose Zero Alone
  3. 00:32Reason 1: Improper Scope Mounting
  4. 01:48Exposed Turrets & Zero Shift
  5. 02:23Reason 2: Ammunition Selection
  6. 03:02Testing 147 Grain Ammo
  7. 04:05Testing 165 Grain Ammo
  8. 04:36Why Point of Impact Shifts
  9. 05:15Reason 3: Rifle Cleaning & Fouling
  10. 06:34Proving Scope Zero Retention
  11. 06:38One-Year Scope Zero Test
  12. 07:22Results: Scope Held Zero
  13. 07:42Rare Circumstance: Scope Failure
  14. 07:50Story: Scope Reticle Shift
  15. 08:31Conclusion: Scope Failure is Rare

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a rifle scope lose its zero just by sitting in a safe?

No, rifle scopes themselves do not typically lose zero while stored in a safe. Perceived zero loss is usually due to external factors like improper mounting, accidental adjustment of turrets, changes in ammunition, or effects from rifle cleaning.

What are the main reasons a rifle might seem to lose its zero?

The three primary reasons are improper scope mounting (loose screws), accidental adjustment of exposed turrets, and changes in ammunition type or weight. Rifle cleaning can also temporarily affect zero due to the removal of copper fouling.

How does ammunition selection affect a rifle's zero?

Different bullet weights, shapes, and manufacturers can alter a rifle's point of impact. This is because each bullet design has a unique center of gravity and requires specific stabilization, which can be affected by the barrel's twist rate.

Does cleaning a rifle affect its zero?

Yes, cleaning a rifle removes copper fouling from the barrel. This fouling can contribute to consistent accuracy. After cleaning, a point of impact shift may occur until enough fouling re-establishes itself in the barrel.

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