The Zero Hero: What Is The Best Distance To Zero Your Weapon?

Jan 5th 2024

The Zero Hero: What Is The Best Distance To Zero Your Weapon?

"The 100-yard zero is the chameleon of zeroes. It adapts seamlessly to various hunting scenarios..."

What distance do I sight in my osprey scope? What is the best distance to zero your optic is a question we get asked a lot, and there is no one right answer. Finding the perfect zero distance for your scope is akin to discovering the Holy Grail. The debate over whether a 50-yard, 100-yard, or 200-yard zero is superior has sparked many a heated discussion among marksmen. But fear not, fellow trigger pullers, for today we embark on a journey through the ballistic wonderland to uncover the benefits of each distance and help you become the zero hero you were destined to be.

The 50-Yard Zero: Short and Sweet Precision

Let's kick off our adventure with the 50-yard zero, a distance that's short, sweet, and packs a punch. Picture this: you're on the range, ready to unleash precision on your unsuspecting targets. The 50-yard zero is like the quick draw of the long-range world, giving you the advantage in close-quarters situations.

Benefits of the 50-Yard Zero:

Close Quarters Dominance:  

With a 50-yard zero, you're locked, loaded, and ready for action in tight spaces. Whether you're navigating a dense forest or defending the homestead, this zero ensures your shots hit the bullseye without breaking a sweat.

Swift Adjustments:

The 50-yard zero is the nimble ninja of the zero world. It allows for quick adjustments, making it a favorite among those who need versatility in their shooting game. Need to switch from close-quarters combat to medium-range sniping in the blink of an eye? The 50-yard zero has your back.

Confidence Booster:

There's something inherently satisfying about nailing shots at close range with precision. The 50-yard zero boosts your confidence, turning you into the sharpshooter everyone wants on their team.

Best Osprey Global Optics For a 50-Yard Zero:
Osprey Red Dot With Green Laser:

Sighting in your red dot at fifty yards is an excellent choice. They were never built to go over a hundred yards and give you excellent groupings out to a hundred yards.

Osprey 1-4x24 AR Optic:

Any tactical optic that you intend to use at or below a hundred or so yards is an ideal choice for a fifty-yard zero. LPVO optics like the Osprey 1-4 and 1-6 are frequently set at fifty for the pickup and pop convenience.

The 100-Yard Zero: The Goldilocks Zone

Now, let's venture a bit farther downrange to the 100-yard zero, often considered the Goldilocks zone of long-range shooting. Not too close, not too far – just right. This zero distance strikes a balance, offering versatility and accuracy that's hard to resist.

Benefits of the 100-Yard Zero:

Versatility Personified:

The 100-yard zero is the chameleon of zeroes. It adapts seamlessly to various hunting scenarios, making it a go-to choice for those who want a well-rounded approach. From mid-range engagements to reaching out a bit farther, the 100-yard zero has you covered.

Trajectory Harmony:

At 100 yards, your bullet trajectory is in sweet harmony. This zero distance minimizes the need for extensive holdovers, making your shots more predictable and allowing you to focus on the thrill of hitting your mark.

Precision at a Distance:

While it excels in versatility, the 100-yard zero doesn't shy away from long-distance precision. It strikes a balance that allows you to confidently engage targets at extended ranges without sacrificing accuracy.

Best Osprey Scope for a 100 Yard Zero:

Osprey Compact 3-9x42 IRF:

A great do-everything optic that is built for quick and close targets but capable of reaching out a good few hundred yards. The 100-yard zero is the perfect option for your zero on this Osprey Scope. An all-round distance for a do-everything scope.

Most traditional hunting scopes are well suited to a hundred-yard zero. Unless you are hunting across valleys glassing up some game on a plane, there wouldn't be much benefit doing anything else.

The 200-Yard Zero: Reaching for the Stars

Our final stop on this zero journey takes us to the 200-yard zero, where the air is a bit thinner, and the shots travel just a tad bit farther. This distance is for the marksmen who dream big and shoot even bigger.

Benefits of the 200-Yard Zero:

So what are the benefits of sighting in your weapon at 200 yards? Reserved for longer range accuracy, the 200 yard zero comes with some real long-range upsides.

Long-Range Dominance:

The 200-yard zero is the kingpin of long-range shooting. If your heart longs for distant targets, this zero distance is your royal path to precision. Engage targets at 300, 400, or even 500 yards with confidence and finesse.

Minimal Drop Adjustments:

One of the chief advantages of the 200-yard zero is its ability to minimize drop at longer distances. This translates to fewer calculations and holdovers, allowing you to focus on the art of getting your target instead of crunching numbers.

The Sniper's Delight:

If you fancy yourself a bit of a sniper aficionado, the 200-yard zero is your delight. Take in the breathtaking view through your scope as you send rounds downrange, hitting distant targets with the precision of a shooting star.

Best Osprey Scope For A 200 Yard Zero:

Osprey Global 10-40x50 IRF:

This optic is not made for short range. It was built for taking your time and reaching out to some big-boy distances. When distance and precision matter more than speed, then this Osprey Scope will get the job done and without question, it is well suited to the 200-yard zero.

So what's the best distance to zero your Osprey Scope?

In the grand tapestry of long-range precision, the choice of zero distance is a personal one. Whether you opt for the short and sweet 50-yard zero, the versatile 100-yard zero, or the long-range dominance of the 200-yard zero, each distance brings its own set of benefits to the table.

So, fellow marksmen, as you embark on your shooting adventures, remember that the best zero for your scope is the one that aligns with your shooting style and preferences. Embrace the playful spirit of the long-range shooting community, experiment with different zeroes, and become the zero hero you were meant to be. May your shots be true, your groupings tight, and your adventures on the range legendary.