Quick Answer
MOA stands for Minute of Angle, which is a unit of measurement used to express the accuracy of a rifle's sight adjustments.
Understanding MOA
In the context of varmint rifles, MOA refers to the number of inches that a rifle’s point of aim will move for each minute of angle (1/60th of a degree) of adjustment. For example, if a rifle’s scope has a 20 MOA elevation adjustment, and the shooter adjusts the scope up 20 MOA, the bullet will rise 20 inches for every 100 yards of distance. This is why it’s essential to understand the MOA relationship between the rifle’s scope and the cartridge being used.
Calculating MOA
To calculate the MOA relationship between a scope and a cartridge, we need to know the bullet’s trajectory at different distances. For example, the trajectory of a .223 Remington cartridge at 100 yards is approximately 3.6 inches. If the scope has a 20 MOA adjustment, and the shooter wants to compensate for the bullet’s drop at 100 yards, the shooter would need to adjust the scope up 5.7 MOA to compensate for the 3.6-inch drop (20 MOA x 3.6 inches / 100 yards). This calculation is crucial for accurate shooting, especially at longer distances.
Practical Applications
When choosing a varmint rifle, it’s essential to consider the MOA relationship between the scope and the cartridge. A scope with a higher MOA adjustment will provide more flexibility for adjusting the point of aim at longer distances. However, it’s also crucial to consider the rifle’s accuracy and the shooter’s skill level. A high MOA adjustment is only useful if the rifle can consistently hit its target at long distances. By understanding the MOA relationship between the scope and the cartridge, varmint hunters can make informed decisions and optimize their shooting performance.
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