For air rifle enthusiasts, achieving pinpoint accuracy is the ultimate goal. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a beginner just starting your journey, zeroing your air rifle is a crucial skill that can significantly enhance your shooting experience.
This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about zeroing targets and using them effectively to achieve perfect alignment.
What is an Air Rifle Zeroing Target?
An air rifle zeroing target is a specially designed target used to align your rifle’s scope or sights with the point of impact of your pellets. These targets typically feature a series of gridlines or concentric circles to help you measure and adjust your aim precisely.
Why is Zeroing Your Air Rifle Important?
Zeroing an air rifle involves aligning your rifle’s sights or scope with the point of impact of your pellets at a specific distance. This ensures that when you aim at a target, your pellets will hit exactly where you’re pointing. This alignment is crucial for:
- Improved accuracy
- Consistent shot placement
- Ethical hunting practices
- Better performance in competitive shooting
Types of Air Rifle Zeroing Targets
A wide variety of air rifle zeroing targets are available. Some of the main types include:
Paper Targets
Paper shooting targets are the most common and affordable option for zeroing your air rifle. They come in various designs, including:
- Bullseye targets
- Grid targets
- Silhouette targets
Many shooters prefer self-adhesive targets for easy setup and replacement. Birchwood Casey offers a range of high-quality adhesive targets suitable for air rifle zeroing.
Reactive Targets
Reactive air rifle targets provide instant feedback when hit, making the zeroing process more engaging. Some popular options include:
- Spinner targets
- Knockdown targets
- Reset targets
The simple steel spinning airgun target is a favourite among many shooters due to its durability and satisfying ‘ping’ when hit.
Electronic Targets
For those looking for a high-tech solution, electronic targets offer precise shot detection and scoring. While more expensive, they’re great for streamlining the zeroing process.
Choosing the Right Air Rifle Target for Zeroing
Selecting an appropriate zeroing target is the first step towards achieving perfect alignment. Here are some factors to consider:
- Size: The target should be large enough to see clearly at your chosen zeroing distance. Many shooters prefer 14 x 14 cm or 17 x 17cm targets.
- Contrast: High-contrast targets with clear markings are easier to see through your scope or sights.
- Material: Durable materials like heavy paper targets or cardboard work well for multiple shots.
- Design: Targets with grid patterns or concentric circles can help you measure shot groupings accurately.
Setting Up Your Zeroing Session
Before you begin zeroing your air rifle, ensure you have the following:
- A safe and legal shooting range
- Your air rifle, chosen pellets, and zeroing targets
- A stable shooting rest or bipod
- Eye and ear protection
- A pellet trap or pellet catcher for safety
Remember, in the UK, it’s crucial to shoot within the legal power limits for air rifles, which is 12 ft-lbs for rifles and 6 ft-lbs for pistols. Many targets are designed for sub 12 ft-lb airguns, ensuring they’re suitable for UK shooters.
The Zeroing Process: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, it’s time to put your zeroing target to use. Here’s how the process works:
- Set up your target: Place your zeroing target at a known distance, typically 10-30 metres for air rifles.
- Stabilise your rifle: Use a shooting rest or bipod to minimise movement.
- Take your first shots: Fire a group of 3-5 shots at the centre of the target.
- Assess the grouping: Measure the distance between your point of aim and the centre of your shot group.
- Adjust your scope: Use the windage (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) turrets to move the point of impact towards your point of aim.
- Repeat: Continue this process until your shots consistently hit where you’re aiming.
- Fine-tune at longer ranges: Once zeroed at close range, confirm your zero at longer distances and make any necessary adjustments.
Advanced Airgun Zeroing Techniques
Once you’ve mastered basic zeroing, consider these advanced techniques:
Using a Chronograph
A chronograph measures pellet velocity, helping you understand your rifle’s performance and make more precise zeroing adjustments.
Accounting for Different Ranges
Create a range card to record your zero at various distances, allowing for quick adjustments in the field.
Wind Compensation
Learn to read wind conditions and adjust your aim accordingly, especially for longer-range shooting.
How to Maintain Your Zero
Once you’ve achieved the perfect zero, it’s important to maintain it. Here are some guidelines:
- Regularly check and tighten scope mounts.
- Store your rifle properly to avoid knocks. Keep in mind that bumps and vibrations during transport can affect alignment.
- Re-zero after changing pellet types or brands.
- Always re-zero after removing and replacing your scope.
- Periodically confirm your zero, especially before important shooting sessions.
As a general rule, it’s good practice to check your zero at the start of each shooting session or at least once a month for frequent shooters.
Beyond Zeroing: Improving Your Shooting Skills with Targets
Once you’ve zeroed your air rifle, consider these additional targets to boost your skills:
- Use a range of targets to keep your target-shooting practice sessions interesting and challenging.
- Try plinking with spinner targets to improve your accuracy with moving targets.
- Practice with silhouette targets to hone your skills for pest control or hunting.
- Use adhesive targets on different surfaces to simulate various shooting scenarios.
- Try thermal targets that change colour when hit. They provide a fun and visual way to track your shots.
Pair your targets with these accessories to enhance your experience:
- Target holder: A sturdy target holder keeps your paper targets in place, even in windy conditions.
- Blank holder: For those using exploding targets, a blank holder is essential for safety.
- Pellet trap: This accessory catches pellets, making cleanup easier and ensuring safety.
- Target box: A knock over target box can house multiple targets for varied practice.
Ace Your Air Rifle Alignment with The Wolfman
Mastering the art of zeroing your air rifle is a fundamental skill for any serious shooter. With the right targets, techniques, and patience, you can achieve perfect alignment and take your shooting to the next level.
At The Wolfman, we’re committed to helping you achieve your shooting goals. Whether you need advice on zeroing techniques, high-quality targets, or precision air rifles, our team of experts is here to assist you. We stock a wide range of targets suitable for all types of air guns, from simple paper targets to spinning targets and durable target holders. Explore our range of products online or contact us for more information.