Properly adjusting rifle scope turrets is an essential skill to master, whether you hunt, compete, or just practice at the range. For even the most experienced marksmen out there, turret adjustment can often mean the difference between hitting the target and missing completely.

But if you are a beginner, you might wonder: which way do I turn the turrets? Left or right? 

Or what happens when I turn the turrets? Is the process slightly different for an LPVO?

Well, it is not just about turning knobs: it's about understanding the mechanical system that helps translate the adjustments you make into real-world accuracy, and this step-by-step guide will help you do exactly that.

Rifle Turrets Adjustment: Why You Must Master It

The objective of turret adjustment is to ensure that your point of impact matches your point of aim. The point of aim is where you aim your rifle, and the point of impact is where the bullet hits, and they are not often the same.

• Point of aim: where you aim your rifle

• Point of impact: where the bullet hits

When you adjust your turrets, you compensate for environmental factors and allow for consistent accuracy across different distances between your rifle’s point of aim and the bullet’s point of impact.

How Scope Turrets Work

When you turn scope turrets, they move the internal erector system within the scope, which in turn, adjusts where your reticle points.

Scope turrets are the round adjustment knobs on the side of your rifle scope that enable you to control where your bullet impacts the target.

Most scopes have two main turrets: the elevation turret and the windage turret.

• The elevation turret is located on top of the optic, and it controls up-and-down movement.

• The windage turret is located on the side, and it controls left and right movement.

Each click of your turrets moves your point of impact by a precise amount, which is typically measured in MOA (Minute of Angle) or MILS (Milliradians). 

It follows that the better you adjust your scope turrets, the more accurate your shots will be.

Scope Turrets Adjustment: Which Way to Turn

Which way to turn scope turrets? It depends on the turret in question and in which direction you intend to move the point of impact.

To move the point of impact upwards, for example, you turn the elevation turret up (or in a counter-clockwise direction), and to move the point of impact down, you turn the elevation turret down (or in a clockwise direction).

Generally, you turn the elevation turrets to move the point of impact up or down and the windage turrets to move the point of impact left or right.

How to Adjust Scope Turrets: Step-by-Step Process

The process of adjusting scope turrets follows a methodical approach, and if you can master it correctly, the results will be a remarkable improvement in your level of accuracy. 

Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Start by mounting your scope properly and ensuring it is leveled.

2. Begin at a specific distance (between you and the target). 

Most shooters choose 100yards

3. Remove the turret caps to access the adjustment dials

4. Understand your click values: is it MOA or Mil? Most scopes use 1/4 MOA per click. This means each click moves impact 1/4 inch at 100 yards

5. Proceed to fire a three-shot group at 100 yards. Use a stable shooting position, preferably from a bench rest or bipod. Your group size should be relatively tight so you don’t introduce shooter error into your adjustments.

6. Measure the distance from your point of impact and the intended point of aim.

7. Then adjust your turrets accordingly: To move impact UP, turn the elevation turret UP/COUNTER-CLOCKWISE. To move impact DOWN, turn the elevation turret DOWN/CLOCKWISE. To move impact RIGHT, turn the windage turret RIGHT/CLOCKWISE. To move impact LEFT, turn the windage turret LEFT/COUNTER-CLOCKWISE.

8. Confirm your adjustments with another three-shot group and repeat the process if necessary.

LPVO Turrets: Special Considerations

Adjusting LPVO turrets (Low Power Variable Optic) requires a different approach they usually have different adjustment features than traditional scopes. Also, LPVOs are different in design and include some features and components.

• Capped turrets for durability

• Limited adjustment range

• Zero-stop features

Tips for Adjusting LPVO Turrets

So, when adjusting LPVO turrets, you have to take into consideration whether your reticle is a First Focal Plane reticle (FFP) or Second Focal plane (SFP), and always zero at maximum magnification. 

Here are some tips for adjusting LPVO turrets:

- Always zero at maximum magnification

- Consider whether your optic is first or second focal plane

- Keep track of the adjustments used

- Maintain proper eye relief throughout adjustment.

Understanding Quality Scope Turrets

Like everything else, some scope turrets are better than others. Good-quality scope turrets are crucial for accuracy. The best scope turrets provide positive click feedback, true tracking, and the ability to return to zero.

Here are some features of good-quality scope turrets

1. Mechanical Precision

Mechanical precision in scope turrets means the click values are consistent, with reliable tracking and no backlash.

2. Construction Quality

Good quality turrets are made of hardened steel components, with a weather-sealed design and precision machining

3. Usability Features

The turrets must have clear markings, a tactical feel to them, zero-stop capability, and efficient locking mechanisms. 

4. Adjustment Range

Good rifle scope turrets have sufficient total travel and appropriate click values, and the adjustments are repeatable.

Remember, investing in quality scope turrets saves frustration and ammunition in the long run. The best scope turrets provide consistent, reliable adjustments that maintain zero regardless of conditions.

Invest in a Good Quality Optic

For best results, it is advisable to invest in an optic with reliable turrets. Having understood what makes good turrets, it is now time to examine Gunnr optics.

Gogunnr Optics

Gogunnr is a newly launched brand of LPVO optics, and it is supplying some of the best and most affordable LPVOs this year. The Odin LPVOS line, launched earlier this year, has received an immensely positive response from the shooting community.

• The German Schott lenses are clean, acute, and clear. 

• They are FFP LPVOs: suitable for most shooters.

• They are made of durable 7075 Aluminum Alloy.

• They come with locking turrets and a zero-stop feature

Then there’s Gunnr’s customer support, which is always present to respond to questions and concerns. Gunnr provides a lifetime warranty for its products, and the team is dedicated to giving you all the assistance you need in your shooting endeavors.

More From Ggunnr!

Check out how to use your Odin optic for hunting and other important tips on protecting your LPVO. If you own an AR-15, learn why the Gogunnr optic pairs perfectly with your AR-15.

Understanding how to adjust rifle scope turrets properly is fundamental to accurate shooting. Whether you're working with traditional scope turrets or LPVO turrets, the principles remain the same: make deliberate adjustments, confirm your changes, and maintain proper documentation.

With practice and attention to detail, you'll master the art of scope turret adjustment and improve your shooting accuracy significantly.