Quick Answer
To sight in an over-under shotgun for upland hunting, start by setting the barrels at 28 inches apart and the sight-in distance at 40 yards. Use a consistent target and a reliable shooting rest to ensure accurate results. Adjust the barrels to achieve a consistent pattern at the desired distance.
Barrel Alignment and Pattern Control
When sighting in an over-under shotgun, proper barrel alignment is crucial. The barrels should be set at a 28-inch span, with the top barrel 1.5 inches higher than the bottom barrel. This alignment helps control the shotgun’s pattern at longer ranges. Use a target with a consistent pattern, such as a 10-inch square or a series of concentric circles, to evaluate the shotgun’s performance.
Sight-in Distance and Adjustment
For upland hunting, the sight-in distance should be set at 40 yards. This allows for a consistent and controlled pattern at the typical upland shooting distances of 20-40 yards. When adjusting the barrels, make small increments (1/8 inch) and test-fire 5-shot groups to evaluate the pattern’s consistency. A consistent pattern will have a minimum of 6-8 pellets within a 10-inch circle.
Pattern Evaluation and Verification
To verify the shotgun’s performance, evaluate the 5-shot group’s pattern at 10 yards and 30 yards. A consistent pattern should have a minimum of 12-15 pellets within a 10-inch circle at both ranges. If the pattern is inconsistent or too tight, adjust the barrels accordingly and retest the shotgun’s performance.
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