Stop Zeroing Your Red Dot WRONG! | PSA for New Shooters

Published on July 7, 2025
Duration: 4:53

This video provides essential guidance for new shooters on properly zeroing a red dot optic. It emphasizes that the zero is specific to the optic, slide, and barrel combination, not the shooter. The instructor advises against relying on laser bore sighters as a final zeroing method and recommends bench resting for accuracy, suggesting a 15-yard zero can achieve a 25-yard zero for 9mm.

Quick Summary

The zero of a red dot sight is determined by the optic, slide, and barrel combination, not the shooter. While laser bore sighters can offer a starting point, live-fire zeroing is essential for accuracy. For 9mm, a 15-yard zero can effectively achieve a 25-yard zero.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: When to Get Help Zeroing
  2. 00:21Honesty About Skill Set
  3. 00:32Red Dots are Amazing
  4. 00:45No Shame in Having Someone Else Zero It
  5. 01:07Debunking the 'Shooter Specific' Zero Myth
  6. 01:19What Determines the Zero
  7. 01:42Why Laser Bore Sighters Aren't Enough
  8. 02:03Using Lasers for a General Starting Point
  9. 02:15Factors in Zeroing
  10. 02:32Environmental Factors
  11. 03:05Taking Human Factors Out
  12. 03:13Bench Resting for Zeroing
  13. 03:23Ideal Zero for 9mm (25 Yards)
  14. 03:40Achieving a 25-Yard Zero at 15 Yards
  15. 03:51When to Seek Professional Help
  16. 04:12Public Service Announcement Conclusion
  17. 04:32Merchandise Plug (California)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important factor when zeroing a red dot sight?

The zero of a red dot sight is determined by the specific combination of the red dot optic, the firearm's slide, and the barrel. It is not dependent on the individual shooter's skill or body mechanics.

Can I use a laser bore sighter to zero my red dot optic?

Laser bore sighters can provide a general starting point for zeroing, but they are not a substitute for live-fire zeroing. Lasers have inherent tolerances and movement, especially when the firearm is fired.

What is the recommended zero distance for a 9mm firearm with a red dot?

The ideal zero distance for a 9mm firearm is typically 25 yards. However, you can achieve a comparable zero by zeroing at 15 yards, as the bullet's trajectory is relatively straight between these distances.

Should I zero my red dot myself if I'm a new shooter?

If you are new to firearms or red dot optics and lack confidence in your ability to zero it accurately, there is no shame in having an experienced shooter, gunsmith, or qualified instructor perform the zeroing for you.

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