How to Zero an ARKEN Scope: Step-by-Step Zeroing Guide

A properly zeroed scope is essential for consistent shot placement. Whether you’re setting up a new ARKEN scope, changing ammunition, or confirming an existing zero, this guide walks you through zeroing, resetting the turret to “0,” and setting the ARKEN Zero Stop (AZS), if your model includes it.

Quick Steps

• Prepare and stabilize the rifle and scope.

• Bore sight to get your first shots on paper.

• Fire a 3–5 shot group at your point of aim (POA).

• Measure the point-of-impact (POI) offset and adjust elevation and windage.

• Fire another group and repeat until the center of the group matches your POA.

• Reset the turret scales to “0” once the zero is confirmed.

• If your scope includes AZS, set it according to the instructions for your specific model.

What You’ll Need

• A 100-yard range (or a 100-meter range if you intend to establish a 100-meter zero) Otherwise choose a distance that suits your needs.

• A securely mounted target

• A stable rest, such as a bipod or front and rear shooting bags

• Ammunition

• The adjustment tool supplied with your scope or specified in its manual, if required. Turret designs vary by model, with some secured by retaining screws and others featuring a tool-free pull-up design.

Before shooting, make sure the scope is properly mounted, the rings are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque, the reticle is level, and eye relief is set correctly.

Step 1: Prepare Your Rifle and Scope

Set the magnification to a suitable setting. Rotate the eyepiece diopter ring while looking at a plain, evenly lit background, the sky works well for this, until the reticle appears sharp and clear.

Please observe the four firearm safety rules as well as any range safety rules before firing.

Step 2: Bore Sight the Rifle

Bore sighting your Arken scope can help you get on target faster and help to reduce wasting ammunition. Use a laser or mechanical bore sighter to establish initial alignment between the bore and the scope.

Bore sighting is not a final zero. Its purpose is to help get your first shots on paper at 100 yards or at your preferred zero distance, saving ammunition and range time.

Step 3: Fire the Initial Group

Hold on the same point of aim (POA) and fire a 3–5 shot group.

Do not adjust the turrets between shots. Use the center of the group to determine your point of impact (POI). If the group is unusually large, check your shooting position, rifle rest, ammunition, and other fundamentals before making adjustments.

Step 4: Measure the Offset and Dial the Correction

Measure the distance between your point of aim (POA) and the center of your point of impact (POI). On an ARKEN first focal plane (FFP) scope, use the reticle grid to measure the offset in MIL or MOA at any magnification; FFP reticle subtensions remain consistent across the magnification range.

Dial the correction

If your scope uses a pull-to-unlock turret, pull the turret knob straight up before making adjustments, then push it fully down to re-engage the lock afterward. Turret designs vary by model, including locking, capped, and tool-less designs. Check your model’s manual before making adjustments.

Adjust the elevation and windage turrets by the measured amount:

The turret markings generally indicate the direction in which the point of impact will move. Confirm the directions shown on your specific scope’s turret before dialing.

After making the adjustment, fire another 3-shot group at the same POA. Continue measuring and adjusting until the center of the group aligns with your point of aim.

Step 5: Reset the Turret to Zero

Once your zero is confirmed, reset the elevation and windage turret scales so they read “0” at your established zero. The reset method depends on your scope’s turret design.

For turrets secured by retaining screws:

• Hold the turret in place so it does not move. Loosen the turret cap retaining screws on the side of the turret with the tool supplied with your scope. This lets the turret cap spin freely without rotating the turret’s internal components.

• Rotate the turret cap until the “0” mark on the cap aligns with the index mark on the scope tube.

• Carefully re-tighten the retaining screws on the side of the turret cap.

• Repeat for the other turret.

After resetting both turrets, confirm that each turret still moves and clicks normally.

Arken Zero Stop (AZS): Setup and Compatibility

The ARKEN Zero Stop (AZS) is a mechanical stop on the elevation turret that allows you to return quickly and consistently to your established zero. The AZS is available on select ARKEN riflescope models.

Set the AZS only after your zero is confirmed and the elevation turret scale has been reset to “0” (Step 5).

Close-up of the ARKEN Zero Stop being adjusted on the elevation turret.

1. Loosen the AZS set screw on the elevation turret with the tool supplied with your scope, and raise the AZS.

2. Rotate the elevation turret UP 2 clicks.

3. Gently turn the AZS, located on top of the elevation turret, clockwise to lower it until you feel it bottom out.

4. Back the AZS off approximately a quarter turn to relieve tension on the mechanism.

5. Tighten the AZS set screw against the AZS.

6. Rotate the turret back to “0.” The AZS is now set.

To verify, dial up a few clicks and return to zero. The turret should stop firmly at “0” without binding.

Do not force the mechanism. If it binds or the stop does not engage properly, consult your model-specific manual or contact ARKEN support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Zeroing

1. Using an unstable rest

Movement between shots can make a properly functioning scope appear poorly zeroed. Support the rifle at the front and rear, and never rest directly on the barrel.

2. Adjusting from a single shot

A single shot does not establish a reliable POI. Use a 3–5-shot group before making turret adjustments.

3. Dialing in the wrong direction

Remember that turret markings indicate the direction the POI moves. You are adjusting where the bullet needs to move. So, if shots are low, dial UP; if shots are left, dial RIGHT. Confirm the markings on your own scope.

Zeroed In? Here’s Where to Go Next

Once your scope is zeroed, take a look at our other scopes to see if there may be another ARKEN optic that fits your shooting needs:

• EP-5: The EP-5 GENII 5-25x56 and 7-35x56 FFP scopes offer high magnification for precision shooting at extended distances.

• EPL-4: The EPL-4 4-16x44 and 6-24x50 FFP scopes offer versatile magnification for hunting and general shooting.

• SH-4: The SH-4 GENII 4-16x50 and SH-4J GENII 6-24x50 FFP scopes provide options for precision-focused shooting and target practice.

The general zeroing concepts may be similar across ARKEN scopes, but turret operation and feature availability can vary by model and generation. Follow the manual for your specific optic.

Browse the full ARKEN lineup →

FAQs

How many shots should I fire per group when zeroing?

Use 3–5 shots per group. This provides a more reliable indication of your POI than a single shot.

Which way do I turn the turrets?

Follow the direction indicated on the turret. If your shots are low, dial UP. If they are left, dial RIGHT.

Can I zero at 25 or 50 yards instead of 100?

Yes. Depending on the caliber you are shooting, like subsonic ammunition or even an air rifle, using a closer zeroing distance may be more beneficial for you. Also starting at a shorter distance can help you get on paper with a newly mounted scope. Confirm your final zero at your intended zeroing distance.

Do I need to bore sight before live fire?

It is not necessary but it can help. Bore sighting is recommended because it can help get your first shots on paper and reduce unnecessary ammunition use. It does not replace live-fire zeroing.

How often should I re-confirm my zero?

Reconfirm your zero after changing ammunition, after the rifle or optic experiences a significant impact or rough transport, and before an important shooting session.