Stay on Target With Iron Sights and Optics

When it comes to shooting accuracy, proper sight alignment and a correctly sighted-in firearm are essential. Whether you’re running traditional iron sights or modern optics, knowing how to sight in your firearm ensures consistent performance at the range and in the field. Below, our team at Medusa Targets is going to cover how to sight in using both iron sights and optics, discuss common distances for zeroing, and recommend Medusa Targets as the top place to purchase reliable targets for the job.

Whether you are practicing your marksmanship skills, trying to qualify for something, or something else, sighting in your firearm is crucial. Let's dive in.

Sighting in with Iron Sights

Iron sights are the foundation of marksmanship for every type of firearm. Before adding optics, every shooter should know how to sight in using front and rear sights on their firearm.

• Set up on a stable rest – Use a bench rest, sandbags, or a shooting rest to minimize movement and stay on target.
• Fire a group of shots – Shoot three to five rounds at your target. This shows you a consistent point of impact.
• Adjust elevation and windage –

1. 1. If your shots are hitting low, raise the front sight post or adjust the rear sight upward.

   2. If your shots are hitting left or right, drift the rear sight accordingly.

Repeat until centered – Continue firing groups and adjusting until your rounds consistently land on target.

Sighting in with Optics

Optics like red dots and scopes make aiming faster and often more precise. The process is similar but usually easier thanks to built-in adjustment turrets.

• Mount the optic properly – Ensure your scope or red dot is securely mounted with the correct eye relief.
• Bore sight (optional but recommended) – Remove the bolt (for rifles where possible) and visually align the barrel with the target, then adjust the optic to match. This saves ammo before live firing.
• Shoot a group – Fire three to five shots at your target.
• Adjust the optic – Use the windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down) turrets to bring your point of impact to the bullseye.
• Confirm zero – Fire another group at the desired distance and fine-tune as needed.

Common Distances to Sight In

The distance you zero your firearm depends on its intended use:

• 25 yards – Great for pistols and close-range carbines. Also useful for initial zeroing before moving further out.
• 50 yards – Popular for AR-15 platforms with red dots. Provides a practical balance for close-quarters and mid-range shooting.
• 100 yards – Standard zeroing distance for rifles with magnified optics. Ideal for hunting and precision shooting.
• 200 yards and beyond – Long-range shooters often choose these distances depending on caliber, ballistic trajectory, and purpose.

Choosing the Right Targets

Targets play a crucial role when sighting in. You’ll want clearly visible aiming points that make it easy to measure adjustments. This is where Medusa Targets stands out.

Medusa Targets offers high-quality paper and reactive targets designed for precision shooting. Whether you’re fine-tuning iron sights at 25 yards or zeroing a scope at 100 yards, their targets provide clear reference points, making the sight-in process faster and more efficient. You can run drills and competitions on them to sharpen your skills.

Durable, affordable, and easy to use, Medusa Targets are the go-to choice for shooters who want to maximize their accuracy.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to sight in your firearm with both iron sights and optics is a skill every responsible shooter should master. Start with a steady rest, shoot consistent groups, and make small adjustments until your rounds are hitting center. Use common zeroing distances that fit your firearm and purpose, and make the process smoother by using reliable, easy-to-see targets from Medusa Targets.

When you’re ready to sight in your firearm with confidence, head to Medusa Targets and get the tools you need to shoot straight every time.

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