Scope Tracking & Return-to-Zero Checks (Fast, Reliable Tests)
Confirm your scope dials true and returns to zero before match day. Two simple tests, clear targets, and record-keeping that makes your dope trustworthy.
Why test tracking
If turret movement doesn’t match what it says, your dope drifts. A five-minute check saves hours of confusion and wasted ammo.
Tools and setup
• Solid front and rear support (bipod + rear bag).
• Tall target or box grid with 1 cm or 0.1 mil markings.
• Level the rifle to the bore line; verify with a visible bubble.
• Start from a clean, confirmed zero.
Tall-target tracking test
• Place a tall target at 50–100 m with a vertical reference line.
• Aim at a fixed point on the line. Dial up a known amount (e.g., 5.0 mils or 20 MOA).
• Fire a careful group without changing your aim point.
• Measure the vertical distance between the zero group and the dialed group.
• Compare measured shift to expected shift. Note any percentage error.
Box test (square)
• From zero, dial up, right, down, and left by the same amount (e.g., 2.0 mils each leg), firing a 1–2 shot group at each corner while holding on the same aim point.
• The final group should land on the original zero group.
• If the square isn’t square or doesn’t close, note direction and magnitude of the error.
Return-to-zero check
• After dialing, return turrets to your recorded zero.
• Fire a confirming group.
• If the group shifts, recheck mounting torque and ensure you didn’t change support height or body position.
Record usable data
• Log distance, dialed value, measured shift, and any percent error.
• If a small, consistent error exists, you can apply a correction factor to your ballistic workflow.
Common mistakes to avoid
• Leveling to the top rail only—verify optic level against the bore line.
• Changing bag height mid-test and introducing cant.
• Reading wind-pushed groups as tracking error; pick calmer moments or shoot both directions.
Mini-FAQ
Q: Mil or MOA—does it matter for these tests?
A: No. Use the unit your scope tracks in; just make sure your target markings match the unit and distance.
Q: How big should the dialed value be?
A: Big enough to measure cleanly but not so large you run off paper—5 mils / 20 MOA on a tall target is a good start.
Q: My scope is off by a small, consistent percent. Replace it?
A: Not necessarily. Record the factor and apply it in your data. If errors vary with direction or won’t repeat, investigate mounting/optic issues.
Next steps
Re-run a short version of these tests after major travel or hardware changes. Pair with a quick zero confirmation to keep dope trustworthy.