Quick Answer
For a 200-yard hunting range, set your scope's parallax adjustment to zero at 100 yards, and then adjust the elevation turret to compensate for bullet drop at 200 yards. Typically, this means dialing in 7-10 MOA of elevation, depending on your rifle's caliber and bullet weight. Use a ballistic calculator to determine the exact adjustment.
Zeroing Your Scope for 200-Yard Ranges
When zeroing your hunting rifle for 200-yard ranges, the first step is to ensure the scope’s parallax adjustment is set to zero at 100 yards. This typically involves focusing the scope on a distant target, such as a tree or a fence post, and then adjusting the parallax turret until the reticle is sharp and clear. Once the parallax is set, you can begin adjusting the elevation turret to compensate for bullet drop at 200 yards.
Understanding Bullet Drop and MOA
Bullet drop is a critical factor in long-range shooting, and it’s essential to understand how it affects your shot. At 200 yards, a typical hunting caliber such as a 30-06 Springfield or a 308 Winchester will drop around 7-10 inches. To compensate for this drop, you’ll need to dial in the same amount of elevation on your scope’s turret. Since most scopes are calibrated in MOA (minutes of angle), you can use a ballistic calculator to determine the exact adjustment. For example, if your calculator shows a 9.2 MOA drop at 200 yards, you’ll need to dial in 9.2 MOA of elevation on your scope’s turret.
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