Shooting low is a common problem for many firearms enthusiasts, regardless of experience level. Understanding how to adjust your sights to correct this issue is crucial for improving accuracy. This comprehensive guide will explain how to adjust your rear sight when shooting low, providing you with the knowledge and techniques to confidently zero your firearm. We'll cover various aspects, from the fundamental principles to practical applications, ensuring you can hit your target consistently.
Understanding Sight Adjustment Fundamentals
Before we delve into the specifics of rear sight adjustment, let's establish the fundamental principle: when your shots are consistently low, you need to raise the point of impact by adjusting your rear sight. This seemingly simple concept often leads to confusion, but the key is to remember that moving the rear sight affects the point of impact relative to the front sight.
How Rear Sights Affect Point of Impact
Your firearm's sights work together to create a sight picture. The front sight is your reference point, while the rear sight frames the target. When the rear sight is adjusted, it changes the relationship between the front sight and the target, altering where the bullet lands.
- Raising the rear sight: This moves the point of impact higher on the target.
- Lowering the rear sight: This moves the point of impact lower on the target.
This is counterintuitive for some, but it's crucial to understand this relationship to effectively adjust your sights.
Identifying the Cause of Low Shots
Before making any adjustments, it's essential to diagnose the root cause of your low shots. Simply adjusting the sights without addressing underlying issues can lead to ongoing inaccuracy.
Common Causes of Low Shots
- Incorrect Sight Picture: Failing to properly align the front sight with the rear sight and target will result in inconsistent shots. Ensure you're focusing on the front sight and maintaining proper alignment.
- Trigger Control Issues: Jerking the trigger can cause the muzzle to jump, leading to low shots. Practice smooth, controlled trigger pulls.
- Stance and Grip: An unstable stance or poor grip will affect accuracy. Ensure a firm, comfortable stance and a proper grip.
- Ammunition: Using different ammunition types can affect point of impact. Stick to one type of ammunition when zeroing your firearm.
If you've ruled out these issues and are still shooting low, then adjusting your rear sight is the next step.
Adjusting Your Rear Sight: A Step-by-Step Guide
The method for adjusting your rear sight varies slightly depending on the type of sight (drift adjustable, elevation screw, etc.). However, the basic principle remains the same.
Step 1: Safe Handling Practices
Safety is paramount. Always follow safe gun handling practices before, during, and after any adjustments. Ensure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction.
Step 2: Identify Your Sight Adjustment Mechanism
Determine how your rear sight is adjusted. This might involve a windage and elevation screw, or a system for drifting the rear sight laterally. Consult your firearm's manual if you are unsure.
Step 3: Make Minor Adjustments
Start with small adjustments. Most sights have markings that indicate the amount of adjustment per click or turn. Make small adjustments, test again, and repeat until your point of impact is corrected.
Step 4: Test and Repeat
After each adjustment, test fire your firearm to check the point of impact. Repeat the process until you achieve the desired accuracy.
Specific Sight Adjustment Techniques
Different firearms use different rear sight adjustment mechanisms. Here's a breakdown:
Drift Adjustable Sights
These sights allow for windage adjustment by drifting the sight laterally. To raise the point of impact (correcting for low shots), you typically need to tap the rear sight up using a punch and a mallet.
Elevation Screws
These sights use screws to adjust elevation. To raise the point of impact, you usually need to turn the elevation screw in a direction specified in your firearm's manual (clockwise or counter-clockwise).
Conclusion: Consistency is Key
Correcting for low shots by adjusting your rear sight is a fundamental skill for any firearms owner. Remember, it's a process of iterative adjustments and testing to achieve optimal accuracy. By understanding the principles, identifying potential issues, and following a systematic approach, you can improve your shooting accuracy significantly. Always prioritize safety and consult your firearm's manual for specific instructions on sight adjustments. Practice makes perfect – regular shooting and sight adjustments will help you consistently hit your target.