Reticle Movement??

[RenegadeRN]

Background: Rifle deer season next Sat. Haven't shot rifle since last year. Only out of case a couple times to ensure clean and no corrosion. Need to sight rifle in to ensure it's on the money. First five shots not even on the target. Shooting 6" to the right at a 100yds.

So what gives? The scope was on last year. No, I am very careful not to bang the scope, etc. I had to move the reticle adjustment so it shot 6 inches to the left. And based upon 1/4" per click shoulda taken me about 20+ clicks. I move the horizontal 12 and shot again and it was on the money. I dunno what the deal is. Anyone have any ideas? I mean I can understand if somehow the adjustment is under some kind of tension, but not six inches worth. Yes, the scope mounts and rings are tight. Every shot after that was right there...ok, well giving my advanced curmudgeonly age and eyesight... as tight as can be expected. LOL!

Just goes to show that you really do need to shoot your rifle before season and you need to practice more than a couple times a year! BE SAFE!!!!

[cameraman]

Cleaning after last season could make a difference, or if you didn't clean it and the barrel was rusty inside. What caliber rifle? Was there any wind when you sighting it in? Did you use the same amunition? Sometime little changes can make a big difference.

[RenegadeRN]

No, the rifle was cleaned. Sorry, just a habit since I was a youngster. No wind whatsoever and it is a .270Win. I just wonder if in the move from one part of the county to the other coulda bumped it.

[fmrleatherneck]

Unless you had your rifle IN YOUR HANDS CONTINUOUSLY since the last time you shot it, I don't think you can really be absolutely positive of what that rifle has been subjected to, especially during a cross country move. Even in the best hardcase, a wrong movement or a "bump" can cause a change in zero.

It might turn out to be a bit disappointing, but I believe you've ALWAYS got to check ALL of your equipment before you depend on its performance, whether it is the zero of your rifle or the cutting edge on your knives, its GOT to be verified.