Quick Answer
To zero a .30-06 for elk season, start by selecting a 150-180 grain bullet, which is a common and effective choice for elk hunting. Use a 100-125 yard zero for a flat trajectory, as elk are often shot at close range. Adjust your scope to compensate for any wind or elevation changes.
Choosing the Right Bullet
When selecting a bullet for elk hunting, consider the weight and expansion characteristics. A 150-180 grain bullet is a good starting point, as it provides sufficient kinetic energy to drop an elk quickly. Look for bullets with a high ballistic coefficient (BC) and a controlled expansion design, such as the Sierra GameKing or the Hornady ELD-X. These bullets will maintain their trajectory and expand reliably, even at long ranges.
Zeroing Your Rifle
Start by setting your rifle’s zero at 100-125 yards, which is a good compromise between a flat trajectory and a manageable shooting distance. Use a high-powered scope, such as 3-9x or 4-12x, to help you see the target and the trajectory. Make sure your scope is properly adjusted for parallax and your rifle is sighted in accurately. To zero your rifle, shoot a series of five shots at 100 yards, and adjust your scope as needed to center the shots in the aiming point.
Accounting for Wind and Elevation
When hunting elk, it’s essential to account for wind and elevation changes. Use a wind deflector or a ballistics calculator to determine the wind deflection and elevation drop at your target range. Make adjustments to your hold-over and wind deflection to compensate for these factors. For example, if you’re shooting uphill and the wind is blowing at 10 mph, you may need to hold 2-3 inches high and 1-2 inches left to compensate for the wind deflection and elevation drop.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.