Quick Answer
To sight in a .308 Winchester for deer season, start with a target at 100 yards, firing three shots to find the point of aim. Adjust the scope for a 2.5-inch high holdover at 200 yards. This will give you a solid foundation for longer shots.
Choosing the Right Ammunition
When selecting ammunition for deer hunting with a .308 Winchester, consider velocity, bullet type, and weight. A 150-grain or 165-grain bullet with a velocity of at least 2,600 feet per second is suitable for deer hunting. Look for ammunition with a ballistic coefficient (BC) of 0.4 or higher for more accurate long-range shots.
Zeroing the Rifle
To accurately sight in your .308 Winchester, start with a target at 100 yards. Fire three shots to find the point of aim, then adjust the scope to bring the bullet impact to the center of the target. For a 2.5-inch high holdover at 200 yards, you’ll need to adjust the scope by about 2.5 MOA (minute of angle).
Shot Placement and Range Estimation
When hunting deer, it’s essential to remember that a good shot can make all the difference. Aim for the heart-lung area for a quick kill, and consider using a rangefinder to estimate distances. For a .308 Winchester, you can use the following holdover chart: 100 yards (no holdover), 200 yards (2.5 inches high), 300 yards (6.5 inches high), and 400 yards (11.5 inches high).
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