A .308 rifle sighted in at 25 yards means its projectile trajectory intersects the point of aim at that specific distance. This process, called zeroing, involves adjusting the rifle’s sights so the bullet’s flight path aligns with the desired target location at a predetermined range. For example, after zeroing, a shot aimed at the center of a target 25 yards away should theoretically strike the center.
Establishing a short-range zero like this can be beneficial for certain shooting disciplines or hunting scenarios where targets are typically encountered at closer ranges. It allows for rapid target acquisition and potentially reduces the need for holdover or hold-under adjustments. Historically, different zeroing distances have been favored depending on the prevalent firearm technologies, ammunition characteristics, and typical engagement distances of the era. The choice of 25 yards might reflect practical constraints of available shooting ranges or the specific ballistic profile of certain .308 loads.