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Q&A · Hunting

Is a 100 MOA Elevation Adjustment Enough for Long Shots?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

A 100 MOA elevation adjustment is generally not sufficient for long shots, as it only allows for adjustments up to 1,000 yards in 10-yard increments. However, this can vary depending on the rifle's caliber and the hunter's specific needs.

Choosing the Right Scope

When it comes to long-range hunting, a scope with a high elevation adjustment range is crucial. A 100 MOA adjustment is equivalent to approximately 3.6 mils, which may not be sufficient for shots beyond 1,000 yards. For example, a .308 Winchester at 1,000 yards requires around 4.5 mils of adjustment, whereas a .300 Winchester Magnum at the same distance requires around 5.5 mils. A scope with a 20-25 MOA adjustment range is more suitable for long-range hunting.

Long-Range Scope Considerations

When selecting a long-range scope, consider the magnification power, reticle design, and parallax adjustment. A variable magnification scope with a lower power setting (e.g., 2-8x) is ideal for long-range shots, as it allows for a wider field of view and easier target acquisition. A reticle with a mil-based design is also beneficial, as it allows for precise adjustments and holdovers. Furthermore, a parallax adjustment with a wide range (e.g., 10-100 yards) is necessary to ensure accuracy.

MOA and Mil Conversion

To determine the required elevation adjustment, hunters need to understand the conversion between mils and MOA. One MOA is equivalent to 1.047 inches at 100 yards, whereas one mil is equivalent to 3.44 inches at the same distance. To calculate the required adjustment, hunters can use the following formula: (Distance in yards) x (Bullet drop in inches) / 3.44. This will give them the adjustment in mils, which can be converted to MOA for the scope’s adjustment.

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