Redfield scopes are renowned for their quality and precision, making the sight-in process crucial for optimal performance. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough, covering everything from preparation to fine-tuning, ensuring you get the most out of your Redfield scope.
Preparing for Your Redfield Sight-In
Before you even touch your rifle, proper preparation is key for a successful sight-in. This minimizes frustration and maximizes accuracy.
Essential Equipment:
- Your Redfield Scope: Make sure it's securely mounted on your rifle. A loose scope will render your efforts useless.
- Ammunition: Use the same type and lot of ammunition you intend to use for hunting or target shooting. Variations in ammunition can significantly impact point of impact.
- Shooting Rest: A stable shooting rest is crucial. A bench rest is ideal, but a sandbag rest will also work well. Avoid shooting freehand during this process.
- Target: A clear, easily visible target at your chosen distance (usually 25 yards for initial sighting). Consider using a target specifically designed for scope sighting.
- Tools: You might need a screwdriver (appropriate size for your scope's adjustment turrets) for making adjustments.
- Eye Protection and Ear Protection: Always prioritize safety.
Choosing Your Sight-In Distance:
While 25 yards is commonly used as a starting point for initial sight-in, you can adapt this based on your rifle and cartridge. For high-powered rifles, you might want to start at a longer distance. Remember that adjustments made at closer ranges will have a larger effect on impact at longer ranges.
The Redfield Sight-In Process: Step-by-Step
This process assumes your Redfield scope has standard adjustment turrets (clicks or MOA/MIL). Refer to your scope's manual for specific instructions if needed.
Step 1: Initial Zeroing:
- Securely position your rifle: Ensure your rifle is stable and you have a comfortable shooting position.
- Fire a three-shot group: Observe where your shots hit the target. Mark the center of your group.
- Adjust your scope: Using the appropriate adjustments on your Redfield scope (usually windage and elevation), correct your aim. Remember, most Redfield scopes use a system where "up" moves the point of impact up, and "right" moves the point of impact to the right. Consult your scope's manual for specifics on click values and adjustments.
Step 2: Fine-Tuning:
- Fire another three-shot group: After making adjustments, fire another group to check your progress.
- Iterative adjustments: Repeat steps 1 and 2 until your group is centered on your target. This is an iterative process, making small adjustments and observing the impact. Avoid making large adjustments at once.
Step 3: Verifying at Longer Ranges:
Once you have a satisfactory zero at your initial sighting distance (e.g., 25 yards), move to longer ranges (50 yards, 100 yards, etc.) to verify the accuracy and consistency of your zero. You may need to make further minor adjustments at these longer distances.
Maintaining Your Redfield Zero
Regular cleaning and proper storage of your rifle and scope will help maintain your zero. Avoid bumping or jarring the rifle, as this can affect your scope's adjustment and alignment.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you're experiencing difficulties during your Redfield sight-in, consider the following:
- Ammunition consistency: Inconsistent ammunition can lead to poor accuracy.
- Shooting technique: Ensure proper shooting technique and stance.
- Scope mounting: Double-check that your scope is securely mounted. A loose scope will lead to inconsistent results.
- Scope quality: While rare, a defective scope could be the issue. Consult Redfield's customer support if you suspect a problem.
By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can confidently sight in your Redfield scope and enjoy accurate and precise shooting. Remember, practice is key to improving your skills and achieving consistent results.
