The humble .22 rimfire remains one of the most popular small-game rifles in the UK and beyond. Whether you target rabbits, squirrels, foxes or corvids, a correctly zeroed .22 ensures accurate, ethical shots out to 100 yards or more. Zeroing is straightforward but requires care and consistency.
Quality scope mounts are crucial. A .22 produces noticeable recoil and vibration compared with a PCP air rifle. Inferior mounts can shift under repeated fire, ruining your zero and leading to missed opportunities or worse. Robust, properly fitted mounts that clamp securely to the rifle’s action or dovetail are essential for maintaining point of impact shot after shot.
Safety and preparation
Use a safe backstop and range. Wear hearing and eye protection. Ensure the rifle is unloaded until you are ready to shoot. Choose the ammunition you will hunt with — subsonic for quieter field use or high-velocity for flatter trajectory.
Recommended zero distance
For general hunting, a 50-yard zero works extremely well. It gives a flat enough trajectory that you can aim dead-on from around 20 to 75 yards with minimal holdover or under using high velocity ammunition. Some hunters prefer 75 yards for slightly longer ranges, but 50 yards is more forgiving for most.
Step-by-step process
Begin at 25 yards to get roughly on paper. Rest the rifle steadily and fire a three or five-shot group at a clear target. Note the centre of the group relative to your point of aim. Adjust the scope turrets to move the point of impact towards the point of aim — remember to “chase the bullet.”
Once roughly zeroed at 25 yards, move to 50 yards and repeat the process. Fire a clean group, make precise adjustments, and confirm with another group. At this stage you should be printing tight clusters centred on your aiming mark.
Finally, check at 75–100 yards to understand your bullet drop. With a good 50-yard zero, most .22 high velocity ammunition will be only a couple of inches low at 100 yards, allowing simple holdover if needed.
Field tips for hunters
- Clean your barrel periodically — lead build-up can affect consistency.
- Test several batches of ammunition; .22 rifles can be picky.
- Zero in conditions similar to your hunting environment.
- Practise estimating ranges accurately — a rangefinder is invaluable.
A well-zeroed .22 is a joy to use and an incredibly effective hunting tool. The time spent at the range translates directly into more successful, humane harvests in the field.
How to Zero a 5.56 Rifle for Hunting
The 5.56 /.223 calibre has grown in popularity for larger small game, fox and even deer stalking in suitable legal conditions. Its flat trajectory and low recoil make it excellent for humane, precise shots, but only when properly zeroed.
Never underestimate the importance of quality scope mounts. The 5.56 / .223 Remington round produces a sharp but not heavy recoil. Cheap or poorly installed mounts are a common cause of zero shift, especially after a few boxes of ammunition or rough handling in the field. Strong, well-engineered mounts that resist movement are vital to keep your rifle consistent and reliable when it matters most.
Safety considerations
Always follow range safety rules. Use adequate backstops and hearing protection — 5.56 (.223) is loud. Confirm your rifle is clear before handling.
Choosing your zero distance
For hunting, a 100-yard zero is the most common and versatile choice. It provides a point-blank range where the bullet stays within a couple of inches high or low out to around 200–250 yards (depending on bullet weight and velocity), minimising holdover calculations in the heat of the moment. Some hunters prefer a 50-yard or 200-yard zero, but 100 yards offers the best all-round balance for most UK and European hunting scenarios.
Step-by-step zeroing
Start at a shorter distance — 25 or 50 yards — to get your shots safely on paper. Use a stable rest and fire a three- or five-shot group. Adjust windage and elevation to move the group centre towards your point of aim.
Once on at the short range, move to 100 yards. Fire another clean group using the same consistent technique and ammunition you will hunt with. Make final turret adjustments (usually in ¼ or ½ MOA clicks) until the group is centred. Confirm with a second group.
Take time to understand your trajectory at other distances. With a typical 55–62 grain hunting load zeroed at 100 yards, the bullet will be around 1.5–2 inches high at 50 yards and only a few inches low at 200 yards — very manageable for ethical shots.
Hunting-specific advice
- Use match-grade or hunting-specific ammunition for best consistency.
- Check your zero after fitting a moderator or changing optics.
- Practise shooting from hunting positions rather than just the bench.
- Record your data in a notebook or ballistic app for quick reference in the field.
A properly zeroed 5.56 rifle is an accurate and versatile hunting companion. The small investment in time at the range ensures confidence and clean harvests when you are out after quarry.