The Best Zero For Your AR15

Published on April 20, 2026
Duration: 12:47

This video from Brownells, featuring Caleb, explores the optimal zero distances for an AR-15, primarily for competition use. It analyzes four common zero distances: 25, 36, 50, and 100 yards, detailing their impact zones on an IPSC A-zone target at various ranges. The instructor emphasizes that the 'best' zero is dependent on the intended use of the firearm and the optic employed, recommending the 100-yard zero as a versatile option for experienced shooters, while suggesting 36 or 50 yards for those using red dots or LPVOs respectively, especially for closer engagements.

Quick Summary

The best AR-15 zero depends on your optic and intended use. For red dots, a 36-yard zero is ideal, while LPVO users benefit from a 50-yard zero. Experienced shooters often prefer a 100-yard zero for its versatility and predictable trajectory, allowing for easy holdovers at longer distances.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: Best AR-15 Zero
  2. 00:44Four Common Zero Distances
  3. 00:55Analyzing the 25 Yard Zero
  4. 01:1225 Yard Zero Impact Zones
  5. 02:02Drawbacks of the 25 Yard Zero
  6. 04:01The 36 Yard Zero Explained
  7. 04:1836 Yard Zero Impact Zones
  8. 05:21The 50 Yard Zero for LPVOs
  9. 05:4250 Yard Zero Impact Zones
  10. 06:58The 100 Yard Zero
  11. 07:09100 Yard Zero Impact Zones
  12. 08:06Instructor's Preferred Zero: 100 Yards
  13. 09:00Using MIL Rad Reticles for Holds
  14. 10:06Recommended Zeros for Novices
  15. 10:42Military ACOG Zeroing Misconceptions
  16. 11:30Choosing Your Zero Wisely
  17. 11:50Factors Affecting Bullet Trajectory
  18. 12:17How to Zero Your Firearm

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best zero distance for an AR-15 for competition?

The best zero for an AR-15 depends on the competition type and optic. For general competition, a 100-yard zero is often recommended for experienced shooters. For red dots, a 36-yard zero is excellent, and for LPVOs, a 50-yard zero is a great choice, offering flexibility for various engagement distances.

Why is a 25-yard zero generally not recommended for AR-15s?

A 25-yard zero causes shots to spread significantly at longer distances, making it hard to stay within the A-zone of targets. While it can work with specific iron sights, it's generally less versatile than other zero distances for modern optics and varied engagement ranges.

How does height over bore affect AR-15 zeroing?

Height over bore is the distance between your rifle's bore and your optic's center. This difference causes your bullet to impact higher or lower than your point of aim, especially at closer ranges. Understanding this is crucial for accurate zeroing and predicting bullet drop at different distances.

What is the advantage of a 100-yard zero for an AR-15?

A 100-yard zero is favored by many experienced shooters because it offers a predictable trajectory. Shots under 100 yards will impact low, but not excessively so, and it allows for easy holdovers to stay within the A-zone out to 300 yards when using a MIL/MOA reticle.

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