Quick Answer
For AR-15 deer hunting, adjustments to the scope typically include setting the reticle to a 4x or 6x magnification, zeroing the rifle at 100 yards, and making adjustments for bullet drop and wind deflection at longer distances.
Understanding Your Scope’s Capabilities
When hunting deer with an AR-15, it’s essential to understand the capabilities of your scope. A 1-4x or 2-6x scope is ideal for this application, as it provides a wide field of view at lower magnifications and a clear sight picture at higher magnifications. When adjusting the scope, start by setting the reticle to a 4x or 6x magnification, which is typically the highest power setting on most AR-15 scopes.
Zeroing Your Rifle
Zeroing your AR-15 at 100 yards is a crucial step in preparing for deer hunting. To do this, find a safe and flat shooting area, and set up a target at 100 yards. Shoot three shots, and use a laser rangefinder or a shot distance measurer to calculate the average distance between the target and your shots. Adjust the scope’s windage and elevation dials accordingly, and repeat the process until your shots are grouping tightly around the target.
Compensating for Bullet Drop and Wind Deflection
Once you’ve zeroed your rifle at 100 yards, you’ll need to make adjustments for bullet drop and wind deflection at longer distances. For example, at 200 yards, a 5.56mm bullet will drop about 4 inches below the line of sight, assuming a flat shooting profile. To compensate for this, adjust the scope’s elevation dial by 4.5 minutes of angle (MOA) for every 100 yards of range. For wind deflection, use the wind deflection chart provided with your scope to calculate the correct adjustment based on the wind speed and direction.
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