Rifle accessories are pointless if you don’t know how to use them, don’t buy the proper equipment for your rifle and type of shooting, and don’t know what to expect from them. Here are 4 popular rifle accessories and some tips on how you can get the best use out of them.
1. Zeroing scopes
There are many different types of rifle scopes available on the market, but they all serve the same purpose: to help the shooter hit their target.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a scope on a rifle. First, it is important to know how to zero the scope. This means adjusting the crosshairs so that they line up with where the bullet will hit the target. When zeroing a rifle scope, it is important to know what distance you will be shooting at so that you can adjust the scope accordingly. The most common distances to zero a scope are 25, 50, and 100 yards.
To begin, set up a target at your desired distance away from your shooting position. For this example, we will be zeroing at 25 yards.
Next, take a few practice shots without adjusting the scope to get a feel for where the bullets are hitting in relation to your point of aim. Once you have done this, it is time to start making adjustments to the scope.
To adjust the windage (left and right), use the screws on the side of the scope. For elevation (up and down), use the screws on the top or bottom of the scope. Each click of these screws will move the point of impact 1/4 inch at 100 yards.
So, if your bullets are hitting 4 inches to the left of your point of aim, you would need to adjust the windage 4 clicks to the right. If they are hitting 2 inches high, you would need to adjust the elevation 8 clicks down.
Keep making adjustments and taking practice shots until your bullets are consistently hitting dead center on your target. Once you have done this, you have successfully zeroed your rifle scope!
2. Bipods and tripods
Bipods and tripods are just two of many great rifle accessories and are commonly used to support a rifle during shooting. It is important to make sure that the bipods and tripods are securely attached to the rifle before firing, as they can be dislodged by the recoil of the gun. Also, be sure to keep your fingers clear of the trigger while attaching or removing bipods and tripods.
When using bipods and tripods, it is important to practice good shooting techniques. This includes keeping the rifle steady and aligning the sights properly. It is also important to take into account the wind speed and direction when firing, as this can affect the trajectory of the bullet. By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of your bipod or tripod-supported shooting.
3. Comparing slings
There are many types of slings available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This is why our third tip is comparing them, so you already know what will suit your needs before you make a purchase. Here is a quick overview of the 3 types of slings to consider adding to your rifle accessories:
Standard Sling: The standard sling is the most basic and economical option. It typically has a single-point attachment and is adjustable in length. This type of sling is very easy to use and is very versatile, as it can be used in a wide variety of different shooting positions. However, the standard sling offers very little support for the rifle and can be uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Two-Point Sling: The two-point sling offers more stability than a standard sling and can be adjusted for both length and tension. It typically has two points of attachment (one at the front and one at the rear of the rifle) and can be worn across the body or over the shoulder. This type of sling is more comfortable to wear and provides more support for the rifle, making it ideal for long-range shooting or when shooting from awkward positions. However, the two-point sling can be more difficult to adjust and can be uncomfortable for some shooters.
Three-Point Sling: The three-point sling is the most stable option and is often used by tactical shooters. It has three points of attachment (front, rear, and side) and can be adjusted for both length and tension. This type of sling offers the most support for the rifle and is the most comfortable to wear. However, the three-point sling can also be difficult to adjust and can limit the range of motion.
4. What to keep in mind when using suppressors
A suppressor is another great item to add to your rifle accessories, but you need to know what to expect. When firing, you’ll notice that the noise of the shot is greatly reduced. This is the whole point of using a suppressor. First, the bullet will still make a “crack” as it breaks the sound barrier, so don’t expect it to be completely silent. Second, your gun will likely have more recoil than usual since there’s no longer anything to help counterbalance the weight of the suppressor. Be prepared for this and adjust your grip accordingly.
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