When adjusting windage or elevation, what method is used to confirm changes?

• A. Use defined clicks or graduations and verify at a known distance.
• B. Estimate by feel.
• C. Record the adjustments in a log but do not test.
• D. Rely on memory.

Answer: (A)

Adjustments to windage or elevation rely on the optic’s precise, repeatable increments. Each click or graduation moves the sight a defined amount, so you can predict how far the point of impact should shift. To confirm those changes, you verify them by firing at a known distance and checking where the bullet actually lands relative to your aiming point. After making the adjustment, shoot at the target at that fixed distance and observe the result; if the impact moves as expected, the adjustment is working. If not, you make a small, measured follow-up adjustment and re-check. This process ensures the correction is real and repeatable, rather than based on feel, memory, or estimation.

Relying on sense of touch, memory, or notes without testing won’t confirm accurate alignment, because sight adjustments and ballistic factors can produce different results than what you may expect.