What range to zero scope on 30-30?

[g_gunter]

Hi all,

Here's a quick one. I've got a Marlin 336 30-30 w/20" barrell and with a new Nikon Prostaff 3x9x40mm scope and need to do a quick zeroing in before deer hunting tomorrow afternoon. I am using Winchester Super X 150gr. softpoints and am not sure of the ballistics and was hoping ya'll could tell me the best range to zero (125yd, 150yd, 175yd)? I'd like the rifle to be useful out to around 200yds max if possible?

Also, if you know how the numbers translate (bullet rise) at say 25 - 50yds would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

g_gunter

 

[Jim Watson]

From Sierra Infinity:

Assuming you have a normal scope mount 1.5" over the bore,
a 150 gr RN at 2200 fps can be sighted to be

0.29" high at 25 yd
1.59" high at 50
2.56" high at 100
on at 165 yds
3.47" low at 200 with 846 ft lb of energy remaining.

You must actually shoot and zero at the longest range available. This is only a computer approximation.

 

[g_gunter]

Thanks Jim. That helps bigtime.

Greg

 

[g_gunter]

Accuracy was excellent!

Well,

I was able to translate the numbers provided to the real world last Friday. I zeroed the rifle at 150yds. and nailed a 4 point buck at around 180yds. with approx. 2.0" drop from POA. Hit the heart. Deer was down within 15 -20 yds. This was my first deer and my two sons (9 & 7 yrs.) were with me in the stand and thought it was cool. They especially enjoyed "tracking" it (all 20yds of it). They said they were "proud" of their dad. They're ready to go back out and do it again!

This Marlin 336 impressed me quite a bit. I was able to hold 1.5" groups (6 shots w/ sandbag rest) at 100yds. using std. Winchester 150gr. softpoints (not premium stuff). I'm not that great a shot so I'm sure the rifle is capable of better than that. All in all, I am quite pleased with this old cowboy rifle.

Thanks for the help.

g_gunter

 

[TerryBob]

Congrads on the deer g_gunter

It sounds like we have the same rifle (yours has a better scope). I love mine. I have mine zeroed at 100 yards because that is usually the longest range that I have to shoot in where I hunt.

I have tried every cartridge that remington and winchester makes in 30-30 and have settled on the 150gr. winchester silver tip. It groups the best out of my 336 and does a mighty fine job on white tail.

Take care and enjoy the cowboy life,

TerryBob