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Quartering Away Shot Placement with an AR-10: Critical Tips?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

When executing a quartering away shot with an AR-10, aim for the vitals, roughly 2-3 inches back from the shoulder, and 1-2 inches above the breastbone, taking into consideration the animal's size and angle. This shot placement increases the chances of a clean kill. Practice with a spotting scope to ensure accuracy.

Shot Placement Fundamentals

To effectively execute a quartering away shot, it’s essential to understand the fundamentals of shot placement. This involves identifying the vitals, which include the heart, lungs, and liver, and aiming for a spot roughly 2-3 inches back from the shoulder and 1-2 inches above the breastbone. The exact placement will vary depending on the animal’s size and angle, so it’s crucial to practice with a spotting scope to ensure accuracy.

Quartering Away Shot Considerations

When taking a quartering away shot, it’s essential to consider the animal’s size and angle. For example, on a larger animal, such as an elk, aim 1-2 inches higher, while on a smaller animal, such as a deer, aim 1-2 inches lower. Additionally, if the animal is moving, aim for the spot where the vitals will be when the animal stops moving. This requires quick and accurate assessment of the situation, which can only be achieved through extensive practice.

AR-10 Specific Tips

When using an AR-10 for hunting, it’s essential to consider the rifle’s characteristics and adjust your shot placement accordingly. The AR-10 has a slightly flatter trajectory than other rifles, which means the bullet will drop less over longer distances. This allows for more precise shot placement at longer ranges. Additionally, the AR-10’s high muzzle velocity also means that the bullet will penetrate deeper, increasing the chances of a clean kill.

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