Sighting in a rifle scope — often called “zeroing” — is a basic but essential skill for any shooter. One of the most common questions newcomers ask is: which way should I turn the turrets when the point of impact (POI) is off from the point of aim (POA)? This guide explains the logic behind turret adjustments, how to translate your shot group into turret clicks, and practical tips to zero your scope safely and efficiently.
Point of Aim (POA): Where you aim (the crosshair).
Point of Impact (POI): Where the bullet actually hits.
Elevation turret: Adjusts vertical POI (up/down).
Windage turret: Adjusts horizontal POI (left/right).
Click value: How much the POI moves per click (common values: 1/4 MOA, 1/2 MOA, or 0.1 mil).
Modern scope turrets are often clearly labeled with arrows and “UP”, “DOWN”, “L”, “R”. Always follow the printed directions on the turret. If the turret says “UP” and points clockwise, turning it that way will move the POI upward relative to the POA. If your turret is unlabeled or ambiguous, consult the manufacturer’s manual before making large adjustments.
If your group impacts low of your point of aim, you need to move the POI up. That means adjusting the elevation turret in the direction marked “UP.”
If your group impacts right of the point of aim, you need to move the POI left — so adjust the windage turret toward the direction marked “L” or away from “R.”
Put simply:
POI low → turn elevation toward UP.
POI high → turn elevation toward DOWN.
POI right → turn windage toward L.
POI left → turn windage toward R.
To zero accurately you’ll measure how far your group is off and convert that distance to turret clicks.
1 MOA ≈ 1 inch at 100 yards.
If your scope is 1/4 MOA per click, one click = 0.25 inch at 100 yards.
Example: Group is 2 inches low at 100 yards → 2 ÷ 0.25 = 8 clicks UP.
1 mil ≈ 3.6 inches at 100 yards (≈ 10 cm at 100 meters).
If your scope is 0.1 mil per click, one click = 0.36 inch at 100 yards.
Example: Group is 2 inches low at 100 yards → 2 ÷ 0.36 ≈ 5.5 clicks UP (round to nearest click).
Tip: Always determine your scope’s click value (listed in the manual or on the turret) before converting distances.
Bore sight or use a laser boresighter to get on paper quickly — this saves time and ammo.
Fire a 3-shot group at your desired zero distance (commonly 100 yards for many rifles).
Measure the group’s center relative to POA (in inches or cm).
Convert the offset to clicks using the formulas above.
Adjust turrets in the direction indicated on the scope, then fire another group to confirm.
Repeat until the group is centered on the POA.
Assuming clockwise always equals up or down. Turret directions vary — read markings.
Making huge adjustments at once. Make incremental moves and re-shoot groups.
Not accounting for hold or parallax. Ensure consistent cheek weld, rest, and parallax setting.
Forgetting to note zero settings. Record the final turret positions and click counts.
Always follow firearm safety rules: treat every firearm as loaded, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and be sure of your target and backstop.
Use an appropriate backstop and range that can safely contain bullets at your chosen distance.
Follow local laws and range regulations regarding shooting and zeroing.
Verify turret click value (MOA or mil).
Confirm turret markings/directions.
Use a stable rest and consistent shooting position.
Measure offsets and calculate clicks carefully.
Make small adjustments and re-shoot to confirm.
There’s nothing mystical about turning scope turrets — it’s a straightforward translation of “my bullets hit off — move the impact toward the crosshair.” The two golden rules are: (1) follow the turret’s own markings and (2) convert your measured offset into the correct number of clicks using your scope’s click value. With patience, consistent technique, and safety-first habits, you’ll have a solid zero and greater confidence downrange.