IS ZEROING YOUR OPTICS IN AIRSOFT USEFUL?
Some people say, “Airsoft guns aren’t that accurate, so it doesn’t matter if they’re properly zeroed. Just look at where your BBs are going, and that should do it.” However, there are two key points to consider:
1. Accuracy vs Precision
Accuracy is the exactitude of where you aim and where your shots hit the target, while precision refers to the spread of the shots relative to each other, also known as grouping. So, it’s more accurate to say that Airsoft guns may lack precision.
2. Precision & Accuracy of Airsoft Guns
While this may hold true for most guns on the market, better models with advanced hop-up systems and consistent FPS can achieve decent precision. Zeroing your optic gives a quick reference for aiming, allowing for more accurate shots, potentially enabling “one shot, one kill” situations.
Precision in airsoft primarily depends on the gun’s components, such as the hop-up, air-nozzle, barrel, and FPS consistency, while accuracy depends on the alignment of your optic and barrel.
Enter all your sizes in centimetres with one decimal place (eg: 7.5) if needed.
HOW PEOPLE USUALLY ZERO
To zero your optics properly, a range of about 50 metres with no wind is ideal, but few people have access to this. Most players settle for a quick adjustment before an event, though this can be unreliable, especially with any wind.
NEW METHOD
AOJ has created an effective, wind-free method to zero optics indoors, without firing a single shot. This system, which is similar to those used by some militaries, adjusts the horizontal and vertical axis of the sight as a primary calibration before heading to the range to make finer adjustment easier and waste less time on game day.
REQUIREMENTS
To follow this method, you’ll need:
- A laser bore sighter (Our Recommendation)
- A tape measure
- A wall for aiming and some masking tape
- The above calculator
ZEROING YOUR OPTIC
Step 1: Effective Range
Identify the effective range of your weapon—the distance where you can reliably hit targets. Common ranges:
- Indoor play: 20 meters
- Outdoor play: 30 meters
- DMR/sniper roles: 50 meters
Ensure your optic, especially if mounted in rings, is level to prevent canting errors during zeroing.
- Decide on your zeroing distance, ideally matching your gameplay. For indoor play, 20 metres is fine; for outdoors, 30 metres is often preferred. For mixed environments, 30 metres works well, but DMR and sniper players may benefit from a 50-metre zero.
- Be aware that optics in rings, like red-dot sights or scopes, should be level and not canted, as this affects zeroing.
Step 2: Measurements
- Clear muzzle accessories for accurate measurements. (also remove the flash hider)
- Measure the distance from the barrel tip to the wall (typically 2-4 meters).
- Mark an “X” on the wall using masking tape for aiming, then:
- Measure the vertical distance from the optic center to the barrel center. (yellow line)
- Measure the horizontal distance from the barrel tip to where the optic intersects the barrel line. (red line)
- Attach a ruler on the wall with the “0cm” point centered on the “X.”
Step 3: Laser Bore Sighter Setup
Insert a high-quality laser bore sighter with the correct adapter into the barrel. Ensure it’s positioned straight (often battery compartment on top) due to factory zeroing.
Step 4: Adjusting Your Optic
- Windage (Horizontal Alignment): Adjust the reticle horizontally to match the laser dot on the wall.
- Elevation (Vertical Adjustment): Use the calculator to determine the offset. For example, if the calculated offset is 7.5 cm, adjust the optic’s vertical alignment 7.5 cm above the laser dot on the wall. The ruler taped to the wall helps with precision.
Step 5: Setting the Hop-Up
Once zeroed, only adjust the hop-up at the field to ensure BBs follow a straight path without over-hopping.
Extra Step 6: Finer Adjustments
For maximum accuracy, double-check windage at a greater distance with the laser.
BENEFITS OF THIS METHOD
This zeroing method allows precise calibration at your chosen range indoors, free from wind interference. It works reliably regardless of your optic’s mounting location and offers consistent adjustments, enhancing accuracy before field use.