1. Bore sight

This is the first step when sighting in a rifle, particularly in the case of a new rifle or where a new scope is mounted. In the case of a new rifle, the gunsmith will generally use a special tool to establish approximate accuracy through bore sighting. In cases where early shots may be way off target, bore sighting can bring shots close enough to allow for fine adjustments. Those with bolt-action rifles can remove the bolt and sight through the barrel to the target and then adjust the cross hairs to fall in alignment with the target. This should, at least, get the shots hitting the paper, which then makes it possible to fine-tune sighting.

2. Keep the rifle stable

This can be done in a number of ways, starting with a bench or table and then using something like a vise stand that locks in and stabilizes the rifle. Sandbags and wood blocks can also make for a solid platform. Most shooting ranges have shooting tables and stabilizing equipment. Few shooters have the experience or ability to get the necessary accuracy without these tools. Stabilizing the rifle makes it possible to establish an accurate shot pattern. It is as important when sighting in a rifle as it is in the field to squeeze the trigger rather than jerk the trigger to establish accuracy.

3. Start short and then go long

The main reason is that the shot pattern is not as exaggerated at a shorter distance, preferably 25 yards. And, at shorter distances, it's easier to place the cross hairs on a larger target. Also, wayward shots are more likely to hit the target and be identified, which makes it easier to make the necessary adjustments. Once zeroed in at 25 yards, then the shooter can move to 100 yards and fine-tune accuracy. At 100 yards, the accepted adjustment on most scopes is one click equals one-quarter-inch movement on the target. The routine is to shoot one bullet and then make needed adjustments until the bullet is within the area of the bull's-eye. The objective is to get three bullets within the accepted target area. A proficient shooter can typically group the three shots within an area the size of a quarter at 100 yards. Occasional shooters typically get a pattern within a 4-inch circle. Three shots show where the rifle is shooting. Zeroing in an open-sight rifle is a little more difficult since most of the adjustments are made in the position of the rifle and not adjustment in the scope. At 100 yards, the general rule is the cross hairs should be right on the bull's-eye, where on an open sight the aim should be just below the bull's-eye.

4. Use the same ammunition

All ammunition does not shoot the same; this includes different brands. It is therefore important that those sighting in for the hunts use the same ammunition they plan to use on their hunts. Those who reload their own ammunition typically find the right combination through time on the range and trial and error.

5. Don't wait

In order to become familiar with a rifle, the recommendation is a shooter hit the range at least once a month or more often. Those who shoot less at least need to hit the range before they hit the hills. All too often hunters head for the hills and perform the sighting-in process by taking a couple of shots from camp at a distant rock or tree. And it is those hunters whose shots often hit the hill rather than the game.