Sighting in for elk hunting

by Skip Shephard
(Tucson, AZ)

I would like to know if sighting in a elk rifle; 300 win mag. using a target at 25 yards is accurate out to 300 yards. I was taught that if my rifle was an inch high at 25 yards from dead center on my target, I would be on at 100 yards. Two inches would be good to 200 yards, etc. Is this accurate information? Please advise.

Comments for Sighting in for elk hunting

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Oct 04, 2013
In theory...
by: Dave (MI)

The 25 yard "theory" gets you close. It's a rule of thumb to get you started, but as Dave said, fine tuning is likely needed. I've wasted many shots starting at 50 or 100 yds. thinking I'd be on paper and fine-tune from there. There are too many variables to rely on the 25 yard target as "good enough" and expect to be close at 100 or 300. Get 3 tight shots at 25, then work your way out, 100, 200, 300. If you really need to fine tune your shots to 300 yards, take a few more at 100 and know where it'll be.

Oct 04, 2013
Always check your zero point
by: Pat Cassidy

If you have a .300 Mag and feel it is sighted in at 300 yds., that means you may be considering actually shooting at an animal at that range.
To not be absolutely sure where your rifle hits at both near and far is a mistake. The animal deserves more.
Now go out there and have a good time.

Oct 04, 2013
Sighting in a Rifle
by: Dave, ElkHuntingTips.net

Hi, Skip. I certainly wouldn't depend on that. 25 yards is a good starting point, but then check it at 100 yards, at least. You'll most likely find that further fine tuning is needed. There could be a small error in where the point of impact is relative to the point of aim at 25 yards, which is imperceptible at that short range. The discrepancy increases the farther out you get.

How to Sight in A Rifle

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