Zeroing a Scope
Zeroing a scope on an air rifle is one of the most important skills for any shooter, whether you use air rifles for target shooting, small game hunting, pest control, or recreational shooting. A properly zeroed scope allows the rifle and scope to work together so the pellet lands exactly where you aim.
As with all airguns, accuracy comes from understanding how the rifle behaves and how the scope aligns with the point of impact. This guide breaks the process down step by step with clear explanations, practical tips, and simple advice for beginners and those already familiar with air rifles and PCP air rifles alike.
What Does Zeroing a Scope Mean?
Zeroing a scope means adjusting it so your point of aim matches the point of impact. When a rifle is properly zeroed, the pellets hit where the crosshairs are. Every air rifle behaves slightly differently due to power levels, how the gun pressurises, pellet choice, and even weather conditions. Zeroing ensures that your unique setup performs at its best.
All air rifles – including spring-powered models, PCP rifles, and entry-level air rifles – require this process before any serious target shooting, target practice, or hunting session. It is also worth remembering that zeroing is not a one-time job. The forces air rifles experience during use, combined with vibration, scope movement, and changes in the rifle’s internal pressure over time, mean that zeroing should be checked regularly. A well-zeroed rifle improves precision, consistency, and confidence.
Why Zeroing Matters for Accuracy
Air rifles, whether basic pellet guns, air pistols, or high-end models, rely heavily on precision. Even advanced models with highly pressurised air systems need a clear, repeatable setup to achieve their full potential. Zeroing your scope reduces wasted pellets, improves confidence, and supports safe shooting. It ensures that the rifle performs correctly at the range you intend to shoot, usually around 20–30 metres for most UK shooters.
For anyone using air guns for recreational and sporting activities, small game hunting, or pest control, a properly zeroed scope prevents poor shots and reduces the risk of missing your target. A clean, well-placed shot matters for both safety and effectiveness.
Understanding How Air Rifles Work Before You Zero
Before adjusting a scope, it helps to understand how air rifles work. Although there are different types of airguns, they all rely on air to fire pellets. Some air rifles are spring-powered, with a coiled spring inside. When you pull the trigger, the air rifle fires and the spring decompresses within the chamber. This slight recoil affects how your scope must be zeroed.
PCP air rifles (pre-charged pneumatic rifles) operate differently. They store highly pressurised air in air cylinders, which can be filled externally using hand pumps, a scuba tank, or a gas-filled cylinder. PCP air rifles are virtually recoilless and widely considered suitable for hunters and target shooters who want the highest level of consistency and performance.
Other air guns include break-barrel rifles, underlevers, and air pistols. Each model has different recoil characteristics, but the fundamental zeroing process stays the same.
Choosing the Right Pellets Before You Zero
Before adjusting your scope, decide which pellets you intend to use regularly. Changing ammunition after zeroing alters your point of impact, so it’s best to choose one type and stick with it. Most air rifles perform best with high-quality pellets. Poor-quality ammunition leads to drifting shots, spiralling trajectories, and unreliable groups.
If you buy pellets from a local gun shop, ask for expert advice based on your rifle model. Our Air Arms rifles, as well as other brands offering a wide selection of air rifles, often have recommended pellets that deliver optimal performance. Choosing the wrong pellet type can make zeroing frustrating and inconsistent.
Setting Up a Safe Shooting Area
Safety must always come first. Make sure you have enough space to shoot, a safe backdrop, and full control of your shooting environment. If you are shooting on private land or other people's land, you must gain permission before firing any airgun. Shooting on public property is illegal in the UK, and the law strictly regulates where air rifles and guns may be used. You can learn more about Air Rifle law here.
Always point the rifle in a safe direction. Never use air guns for self-defence or self-defence purposes. Air rifles are primarily designed for recreation, sporting activities, hunting, and target shooting, not defensive scenarios. Always remember that misuse can result in serious legal consequences.
Choosing the Right Distance for Zeroing
Most air rifles in the UK are zeroed at 20–30 metres. This distance is suitable for general recreational shooting, hunting, and target practice. If you use a high-powered PCP air rifle or plan on small game hunting, you might choose a longer zeroing distance, but beginners should start with 20 metres.
- Ensure the range is measured accurately. Even small inaccuracies can lead to confusion when adjusting your scope.
Stabilising Your Rifle Before You Begin
A stable shooting position is essential when zeroing. You can use sandbags, shooting rests, bipods, or other shooting accessories to stabilise your equipment. Some shooters prefer to lie prone for additional stability.
A well-designed stock can help significantly. Stability ensures that your zero reflects the rifle’s true behaviour rather than the shooter's movement.
How to Fire Your First Group
Aim at the centre of the target and fire a group of three to five pellets. Do not adjust the scope between shots. Concentrate on holding the rifle consistently, controlling your breathing, and allowing the shot cycle to complete without disturbance.
If your groups are tight, you’re shooting well, even if the pellets land far from the bullseye. If the group is spread widely, check your grip, your pellets, and how the gun behaves under recoil. Remember that spring rifles react differently depending on how firmly they are held, while PCP air rifles are smoother and more predictable.
Adjusting the Windage and Elevation
Your scope has two main adjustment turrets: windage (left and right) and elevation (up and down). Make small, careful adjustments based on where your group lands.
If pellets strike low, raise the elevation. If they land left, adjust windage to the right. Avoid over-adjusting. After each change, fire another group to monitor progress. The goal is to gradually walk your groups toward the centre.
Repeat the Process Until Perfect
Zeroing requires patience. Continue firing groups and making minor adjustments until your pellets consistently hit exactly where the crosshairs sit. Once you achieve this, your rifle is zeroed at your chosen distance.
- Environmental changes, such as temperature, humidity, and how the air rifle pressurises, can all affect your zero, so regular checks are essential.
Checking Your Zero at Different Distances
After zeroing at 20–30 metres, test shots at different ranges. Pellets travel in a curved arc, meaning shots at 10 metres or 40 metres will not land exactly at the same point as your zero. Practising at multiple distances helps you understand holdover and holdunder, a crucial skill for airgun shooters engaged in hunting, pest control, or competitive target shooting.
Common Problems When Zeroing
Some shooters struggle to maintain consistent groups due to recoil, poor scope mounts, loose screws, or unsuitable ammunition. Spring-powered rifles may jump slightly when fired, while PCP air systems provide smoother shot cycles.
Check that your mounts, screws, and fittings are tight. Make sure the air cylinders are filled to the correct pressure. If your PCP air rifle is low on air (just as a car tyre loses pressure), it will lose power and accuracy.
If problems persist, your local gun shop can provide expert advice and identify whether the issue relates to shooting technique or a mechanical problem.
Legal Considerations When Zeroing in the UK
In the UK, air rifles can be owned without a firearms certificate if they remain within legal power limits. However, the law strictly regulates where you may use an airgun. Shooting over people's land, beyond boundaries, or in unsafe areas is illegal.
Air rifles must never be used for self-defence. They are designed for shooting sports, recreational and sporting activities, and pest-related purposes. If you're unsure about your local guidelines, call your local police station or check the government website for more information.
Maintaining Your Rifle After Zeroing
Maintaining your rifle helps keep your zero stable. Spring-powered rifles may require lubrication, while PCP air rifles require seal checks, air cylinder inspections, and proper filling using a pump, scuba tank, or gas-filled cylinder.
Regular service extends the lifespan of your rifle and maintains consistent accuracy. Well-maintained rifles deliver steady, predictable results.
Choosing the Right Equipment for Zeroing
Basic shooting equipment, such as sandbags, bipods, shooting rests, and reliable targets, makes the zeroing process much easier. Additional accessories, such as pellet pouches or scope tools, can also be helpful.
Large, clear targets with grids help measure adjustments more accurately. High-quality pellets and a dependable scope can transform your results.
Should You Zero with a Single Shot or Magazine Use?
Some rifles use magazines, while others operate as single-shot systems. If you usually shoot with a magazine, you should zero the rifle with it fitted, because the feeding cycle can slightly alter accuracy.
Single-shot trays are excellent for precision work, especially in PCP rifles, but zero for the method you will use most.
When to Re-Zero Your Rifle
Re-zero your rifle if it has been dropped, knocked, transported, stored for a long period, or exposed to temperature changes. PCP air rifles may also drift when the air pressure drops. Hunters typically check zero before every outing, while target shooters check before competitions. For general shooters, checking every few weeks is sensible.
A Well-Zeroed Rifle Makes All the Difference
Zeroing a scope on an air rifle is essential for accurate shooting. It improves confidence, reduces wasted pellets, and ensures that every shot performs as expected. From entry-level air rifles to high-performance PCP systems, every rifle benefits from proper zeroing.
If you ever feel unsure, your local gun shop can offer expert advice. Brands like Air Arms provide a diverse selection of rifles capable of outstanding accuracy when properly zeroed. With patience, practice, and the right accessories, you’ll achieve tight groups, consistent shots, and a rifle that feels perfectly tuned to you.
Ready to Elevate Your Shooting?
If you’re ready to take your shooting to the next level, now is the perfect time to explore our wide selection of high-quality air rifles, PCP air rifles, airguns, and shooting accessories designed to help you achieve the best possible results.
