The .22 250: A Quick Look
The crack of the shot, the satisfying thump as the bullet finds its mark. For anyone who appreciates the precision and power of a rifle, achieving that perfect shot is a fundamental goal. And when it comes to a cartridge like the .22 250, known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, a solid zero is absolutely crucial. This guide will walk you through the process of achieving a precise .22 250 zero at the common and useful distance of fifty yards, setting you on the path to accurate shooting.
Before we dive into the mechanics of zeroing, let’s take a moment to appreciate the .22 250 cartridge. This round has earned a reputation for being a high-velocity powerhouse. The main selling point of a .22 250 is that it generates a flat trajectory, meaning the bullet experiences minimal drop over its flight path. This characteristic makes the .22 250 an excellent choice for varmint hunting at medium ranges, as well as for target shooting, where accuracy is paramount.
The flat trajectory significantly reduces the need for holdover or adjustment of the scope, especially at distances where the impact of gravity is less pronounced. Of course, the precise performance of a .22 250 is influenced by several factors. Some are under our control, and some are not.
Bullet Weight
This is perhaps the most significant variable. You’ll typically find .22 250 ammunition using bullet weights that range from around fifty grains to seventy or even eighty grains. Lighter bullets tend to travel even faster, and their trajectory is typically flatter within the effective range. Heavier bullets tend to retain more energy at longer ranges, but may experience more drop over that same distance.
Ballistic Coefficient
This is a numerical value representing a bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance. A higher ballistic coefficient means less drag and a flatter trajectory.
Muzzle Velocity
Naturally, the faster a bullet leaves the barrel, the flatter its trajectory will be. Muzzle velocity is directly related to the powder used in the cartridge and the length of the barrel.
Environmental Factors
This is the realm of the unpredictable. Wind is the biggest factor, as it can push a bullet sideways, affecting the point of impact. Temperature and altitude also affect the bullet’s flight, although usually less dramatically.
Gearing Up: What You’ll Need
To achieve a precise .22 250 zero at fifty yards, you’ll need the right equipment. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
The Rifle and Ammunition
This is the heart of the operation. A suitable .22 250 rifle is essential. Bolt-action rifles are a common and effective choice for their inherent accuracy. Choose quality .22 250 ammunition; brands and specific grain weights are a matter of personal preference and what your rifle performs best with. Experiment to find what consistently groups well.
The Scope and Its Mounting
A good scope will significantly improve your ability to see the target and make precise adjustments. The magnification of your scope will be a personal choice. A scope with variable magnification (e.g., 3-9x, 4-12x) offers versatility. Ensure the scope is properly mounted on your rifle; that means using quality scope rings and bases and following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure a secure and aligned setup.
A Stable Shooting Platform
The more stable your shooting platform, the more accurate your shots will be. Using a benchrest or a sturdy support system will dramatically improve your results. Sandbags are a reliable choice. A bipod, if mounted to your rifle, can also be very useful. The goal is to eliminate as much movement as possible, allowing you to focus on the shot.
Targets and Setup
Choose targets designed for precision shooting. Bullseye targets or targets with a grid pattern are ideal, as they allow you to easily visualize your group size and make scope adjustments. Make sure you have enough space to safely and accurately place your target at the prescribed distance of fifty yards. Ensure the target is well lit and in an area free from obstructions.
Tools
You’ll need some basic tools. These include a screwdriver or Allen wrenches for mounting the scope and making adjustments. A spotting scope or binoculars can also prove helpful for seeing the bullet holes in your target from the shooting position, which is useful, but not always required.
Setting Up Your Range and Target
Before you even touch your rifle, safety is paramount. Always observe all range safety rules. Know and understand those rules and procedures. If there’s any doubt, ask a range officer for clarification.
Carefully measure and position your target at the fifty-yard mark. Make sure the target is secured and won’t move during your shooting session.
Position yourself comfortably behind the rifle, ensuring you can see the target clearly through the scope. Your shooting position should be consistent, allowing for repeatability. Adjust the bench or platform height to suit your comfort and ensure a clear sight picture.
Taking the First Shots
Now comes the exciting part. With everything in place, it’s time to begin. Your first shots are for familiarization and to get your bullet impacts on the paper. Start by firing a few “sighter” shots. Observe where these shots hit on the target. This initial shot group will tell you how far off your scope is. Remember that many scopes are marked with adjustments per click, meaning that one click on the elevation adjustment will typically move the bullet impact a certain distance.
You’ll have to start making your adjustments to bring those shots toward the center. If the shots are consistently low, you’ll need to adjust the elevation dial (usually on top of the scope) up. If the shots are to the left, you’ll adjust the windage dial (usually on the side of the scope) to the right. Remember to note which direction each click moves the point of impact.
Refining Your Zero
After the initial sighter shots and adjustments, it’s time to tighten things up. Fire a group of three to five shots, taking your time and maintaining a consistent shooting technique. Aim carefully and squeeze the trigger smoothly to avoid disturbing the rifle.
Once you have your shot group, carefully assess where they landed on the target. Measure the distance between the center of your shot group and your point of aim (typically the bullseye).
Based on your measurements, make small adjustments to your scope’s windage and elevation dials. For example, if your group is one inch high and one inch to the right, you would adjust the elevation down and the windage left, one click at a time, until the point of impact shifts closer to your point of aim.
Fire another group, and repeat the process. Continue making fine-tuning adjustments until the center of your shot group consistently impacts your point of aim. This process, done diligently, will get you the .22 250 zero you’re looking for.
Final Confirmation and Beyond
After several adjustment cycles, you should have a good idea of your zero. Once you are comfortable with how you’re shooting, confirm your zero by firing another group of shots. This final group should consistently hit the bullseye or your chosen point of aim. This provides the confidence you’re looking for.
As you achieve your .22 250 zero, it’s a good idea to document the settings. Keep a log of your scope adjustments, the ammunition you are using, and the environmental conditions. This information will be incredibly helpful when you’re shooting at different distances or under varying conditions.
While zeroing at fifty yards is a great starting point, understand the trajectory of your .22 250. The impact of gravity becomes more pronounced at longer ranges. A fifty-yard zero will typically put your bullet a bit high at one hundred yards, and significantly lower at two hundred yards. The fifty yard mark is a great start, but from there, you will need to make further adjustments. It also helps to know how much the bullet drops at certain distances.
Ultimately, accuracy relies on practice. The more time you spend shooting your .22 250, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become, and the more consistent your results will be.
Common Challenges and How to Address Them
Even with careful setup and technique, you might encounter some challenges. Here are a few common issues and how to overcome them:
“Walking” Groups
This is when your shot groups seem to be consistently moving in one direction or another. This can be caused by several things. Ensure your scope mounts are secure. Check that your rifle’s action is properly bedded. If the problem continues, try a different type of ammunition.
Inconsistent Grouping
This means your shots are scattered, making it difficult to zero your scope. Make sure that your shooting platform is stable. Ensure you are properly squeezing the trigger and aren’t “jerking” the rifle. Consider practicing dry firing at home to improve your trigger control.
Wind
Wind can be the bane of any shooter. To compensate, try to observe the wind conditions before each shot. Adjust your point of aim slightly into the wind. The amount of adjustment depends on the wind speed and the distance.
Scope Issues
Sometimes, the scope itself can be the culprit. If you suspect a scope problem, check its mounting. If it’s still an issue, consider having the scope inspected by a gunsmith or replacing it.
Conclusion
Achieving a precise .22 250 zero at fifty yards is a fundamental skill for anyone who wants to get the most out of this versatile cartridge. By following these steps, you can learn to precisely dial in your rifle, allowing you to make accurate shots. Remember to practice consistently and to pay attention to the details. A well-zeroed rifle will be more enjoyable and more effective, whether you are enjoying target practice or pursuing your hunting goals.
