How to Zero an Air Rifle Properly (Step-by-Step Guide)

If your air rifle isn’t hitting where you aim, the problem is usually simple — it isn’t zeroed properly.

Zeroing is the process of aligning your scope with your rifle so that your point of aim matches your point of impact.

Get this right, and everything else becomes easier.

What Does “Zeroing” an Air Rifle Mean?

Zeroing means adjusting your scope so that the crosshairs line up with where the pellet actually hits.

Once zeroed, your rifle will consistently hit your intended target at a chosen distance.

Choose Your Zero Distance

Before you start, decide your zero range.

Common distances are:

• 20–25 metres for general shooting
• 25–30 metres for target shooting
• Specific distances depending on your setup and discipline

Your zero distance should match how you plan to use the rifle.

Set Up a Stable Shooting Position

Stability is critical when zeroing.

If your rifle moves, your results will be inconsistent.

Use a solid, repeatable setup with proper front support.

A stable benchrest setup helps remove movement and ensures each shot is consistent.

The more stable your setup, the easier zeroing becomes.

Start at a Close Distance

If your scope is not already zeroed, begin at a shorter distance (around 10–15 metres).

This makes it easier to get on paper and avoid wasting time.

Once you’re hitting consistently, move back to your chosen zero distance.

Take a Group, Not a Single Shot

Don’t adjust your scope after every shot.

Instead, fire a small group (3–5 shots) and look at the overall pattern.

This gives a more accurate representation of where your rifle is shooting.

Adjust Your Scope Correctly

Your scope will have two adjustment turrets:

• Elevation (up/down)
• Windage (left/right)

Adjust based on where your group lands:

• If shots are low, adjust up
• If shots are left, adjust right

Make small adjustments, then shoot another group.

Repeat Until Centre

Zeroing is a simple process of repetition:

• Shoot a group
• Adjust
• Shoot again

Continue until your group is centred on your target.

Consistency Is Key

If your groups are inconsistent, zeroing becomes difficult.

This is usually caused by:

• Unstable support
• Inconsistent positioning
• Pellet variation