How to Understand Click Value on a Rifle Scope

Adding a scope to your rifle will help you to fire consistent and accurate shots when hunting or during target practice. The scope's magnification ability, which will vary depending on the type of scope that you use, will also increase the range at which you can comfortably aim at a target. You will need to understand how to adjust your scope.

Things You'll Need

  • Rifle
  • Scope
  • Target
  • Shooting stand
  • Brace for securing rifle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure the gun on the shooting table so that it is aimed at your target. Line up the open sights of the rifle, which you should be able to view beneath the scope mount, on your target.

    • 2

      Alternate your view between the open sights and the scope. By adjusting the alignment knobs on the scope, you will be able to bring the crosshairs of the scope in line with your view through the open sights.

    • 3

      Depending on the type of scope you are using, the alignment knobs will have an adjust value of ¼ or ½ inch at a given yardage, usually 50 or 100 yards. When you turn the knob there will be an audible "click." Each "click" corresponds to one unit of adjustment.

    • 4

      The initial adjustment will bring your scope close enough to being in line that you should at least hit the target with your first shot. You will need to fine-tune your scope by "clicking" in the scope with the adjustment knobs, either up and down or side to side. Some scopes can be adjusted by hand. Others will need to be adjusted using a small screwdriver or other tool.

    • 5

      On the first couple of shots you may be able to adjust the scope in large increments. As you narrow in on your target, you will soon be making finer, one-click adjustments. Keeping the rifle solidly braced ensures that variations from shot to shot are limited.