Sighting in a .308 Winchester rifle at a 25-yard range establishes a baseline for accurate shooting at longer distances. This process involves adjusting the rifle’s sights or scope so that the point of impact of the bullet coincides with the point of aim at that specific distance. This shorter range allows for easier adjustments and conserves ammunition, serving as a preliminary step before final adjustments at longer, more practical ranges.
This practice provides several advantages. It allows for a gross adjustment of the sighting system, saving time and resources at longer distances where spotting bullet impacts can be more challenging. It also builds shooter confidence by providing immediate feedback and allows for refinement of shooting technique in a controlled environment. Historically, access to longer ranges was not always feasible. Consequently, shorter-range zeroing provided a practical solution, especially for civilian or paramilitary applications.