Quick Answer
Wind drift plays a significant role in zeroing at longer ranges, particularly when transitioning from 100 to 200 yards. This is because the wind's effect on bullet trajectory increases exponentially with distance.
Understanding Wind Drift
Wind drift refers to the lateral movement of a bullet due to crosswind. The magnitude of wind drift depends on several factors, including the angle of the wind, bullet design, and distance. At 100 yards, wind drift is minimal, typically around 0.5-1 inch per 10 mph wind. However, at 200 yards, wind drift can be as high as 2-3 inches per 10 mph wind. This significant increase in wind drift necessitates adjusting your zero to account for the increased lateral movement.
Zeroing Considerations
When zeroing at longer ranges, it’s essential to consider the wind’s effect on your bullet’s trajectory. To compensate for wind drift, you’ll need to adjust your zero accordingly. A general rule of thumb is to adjust your zero by 1-2 MOA (minutes of angle) for every 10 mph increase in wind speed. For example, if you zero at 100 yards with a 10 mph wind, you may need to adjust your zero by 1 MOA when moving to 200 yards with a 20 mph wind.
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