What is HEIGHT Over BORE? #shorts

Published on October 10, 2025
Duration: 1:47

This video explains the concept of 'height over bore' and its critical importance when zeroing firearm optics. It demonstrates how the distance between the bore and the optic's line of sight causes bullet impacts to be lower than the aiming point at close range. The explanation emphasizes the need to aim higher at closer distances to compensate for this effect, especially when using optic risers, and how this difference diminishes at greater distances.

Quick Summary

Height over bore is the vertical distance between a firearm's bore and its optic's sight line. This difference means bullets impact lower than the aiming point at close range. To compensate, aim slightly higher. This effect is amplified when using optic risers and diminishes at longer distances.

Chapters

  1. 00:00What is Height Over Bore?
  2. 00:14Bore vs. Optic Alignment
  3. 00:26The Concept of Height Over Bore
  4. 00:31Visualizing Height Over Bore
  5. 00:40Demonstration: Close Distance Impact
  6. 00:58Close Distance Results
  7. 01:07Zeroing Distance Explained
  8. 01:14Demonstration: Further Distance Grouping
  9. 01:29Further Distance Results
  10. 01:34Key Takeaway: Compensating for Height Over Bore

Frequently Asked Questions

What is height over bore on a firearm?

Height over bore is the vertical distance between the center of your firearm's barrel (the bore) and the center of your optic's sight line. This difference is crucial for understanding where your bullet will impact relative to your aiming point, especially at different distances.

Why is height over bore important for zeroing an optic?

Height over bore is important because it dictates the bullet's trajectory relative to your optic's line of sight. At close distances, the bullet will hit lower than your aiming point. Understanding this allows you to compensate by aiming higher to ensure accuracy.

How does height over bore affect shooting at close distances?

At close distances, the effect of height over bore is most pronounced. Your bullet will impact lower than where your red dot is sighted. To hit your target, you need to aim slightly above the desired impact point to account for this difference.

Does using an optic riser change the impact of height over bore?

Yes, using an optic riser significantly increases the height over bore. This means the difference between your aiming point and bullet impact at close ranges will be greater, requiring more deliberate compensation to maintain accuracy.

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