He catered to us and took the time to design a 25 yard target for free. That's fucking awesome! Support this guy for sure, he deserves it. I'm irate youtube took this long to recommend.
The video is 6 years old at this time and it's hands down the best explanation on how to zero a rifle along with the trajectories of other zeros. Shawn is a freaking legend for this video and on top of that he took the time to desig the target and make it available to us for free. He 100% deserves all the amazing things God has blessed him and his family with
Who else comes back and re-watches this video whenever it shows up again in their algorithm list? I think I've watched this thing four times. Still fun and informative. Maybe I'm just slow.
@@TimKollat have small backyard, from inside bedroom window to retaining wall I have 65-68feet(around 22 yards) would I just lower another inch- 2 inches total? (I just got that site mark 500 laser bore sighter) Hey thanks, I will be voting Pro 2A this election!
14.5” DDM4A1 w/ eotech xps2 and this works fantastic. Sighted in 36 & immediately moved to 300 and punched steel. Aimed for the middle of a 9x16 plate and heard nothing but dings. This video is truth.
Former Army Ranger here (1985-1993), still love to shoot at 52 Years young, and living in Arizona affords me the opportunity to do so. This zero is amazing to say the least! Thanks for taking time to make this video and the targets as well. Thanks for your service brother, since 9/11, I always slept good at night knowing guys like you were out there doing what you do.
Sean, printed out the target to 8.5 x 11 inch, took it to the range and damn what a great zero. Your holds were right on. Thank you for taking the time Sean!!! (The old 24th inf dude in the northeast). Made my damn day
@Mike Bastiat Glad to see you are Pro-Life. Maybe we were watching a different video than you, but those targets were not babies. They were simulated potential enemies. You probably should just thank the Shawn for his service and courage while you were here protesting. Just sayin
I tested this out yesterday. Tested it with a DDM4V7. 1 &7 twist. With fiocchi 55grn. FMJ. Started at 25 went to 300yards. Came out exactly the way it was shown here. Awesome zero.
Hands down the best zero vid I’ve ever watched. Keep up the good work! I know how much time goes into these, so just know other creatives appreciate the effort!
Brent 0331 has a good one, also, about this same sort of subject. One of the better I've seen. Not explicitly about zeroing but about effective reticle usage and what each hash means, etc... Basically an extension of this vid. Edit: Turns out it was a review of an ACSS reticle and some other stuff...ACOGs and more. Link below. I apologize in advance if anything in this is wrong or misleading or if I shouldn't have posted a link to somebody else's channel. ua-cam.com/video/OksBIvXvSoI/v-deo.html
Did you guys check that video in the link I left? It's an extremely good video, IMO. But then, I didn't know any of that and wouldn't know if any of it was incorrect.
Shawn, thank you for taking the time to give us this video AND the target! Invaluable information! Been out of the service since 81, finally got off my ass, paid the price for a mass pre ban (I know, I know) and finally find this on your UA-cam channel. GREAT INFORMATION! Just printed out my targets and heading for the range. Currently zero'd at 30 yards and cant wait to re-zero!! Thank you Sir!! Now, if i can just find some damn ammo!
Thanks man, we did 36 yard zero in the Marines but were never really told why. Since I've been out, I zeroed my rifle at 100 but had no idea the actual hold pattern.... cant wait to take this target to the indoor range and get it zeroed properly. Can't say thank you enough for the awesome content and making this target (you must be a physics genius).
@@wilcoxtactical3716 Obviously it's been out but the ability to explain the science behind it is what's valuable. Sure he may be regurgitating stuff he read/heard or..... he's a closeted physics genius
@Tyler-vw9bh The 100 yard zero isn’t bad at all. It’s like a laser pointer out to 200 yards. As far as holds go, always hold high. Worst case scenario is that your shot is 2” low.
I bet if we taught military concepts dealing with mathematics in grade school, young boys would be more interested in math and science. The word problems would be pretty gruesome though.
You made the concept of zeroing a hell of a lot simpler, for a hell of a lot of folks. Nice visual representation of the trajectory spread/POI at distance. Keep up the awesome vids. Thanks brother
This is by far the BEST explanation on zeroing. Thank you for calculating and showing the bullet impact at different yardage. I personally have my rifle set to 50 yrd and to visually see where the bullets could land is going to make it so much easier to picture and calculate holds if needed. Thanks for sharing you knowledge and experience with us and hoping for your continued success with the podcast man.
I just found out about this guy this morning while cruising the comments section on someone else channel. At about the 1:00 mark, I paused and subscribed. Learned more in 10 fricking minutes than in hours of watching others. Seriously felt like I was in a "classroom" environment. When I find out how your channel is supported, you WILL get mine. Thank you sir.
I have always used the 50 yard zero. Just having to zero at less then 50 is fanfreakingtastic with my eyes getting older. Gonna try that 36 yard zero. Thanks. Much appreciated
I just started 3 gun a month ago. The long range stages I’ve shot have given me problems and I didn’t know why. I was zeroed at 25 yds because even for all my research, it’s what I was told was best. No wonder I’ve been having issues with a 4” plate at 150 yards!! Even with a big hold under, I’ve been WAY high. Now I know. And knowing is 1/2 the battle. Much appreciated for all this info!! This week I’ll be heading back to the range to zero my rifle again. Im super stoked for my next 3 gun match!! Thanks so much!!
Awesome, this is exactly what i was looking for! Thank you for giving us that target especially without asking anything in return for it, that's a huge contribution to the community although most may not realize the significance of it. Semper fi
Dude. Hands down the most informative video about zeros I’ve ever seen. In a 5 year old video at that. Seems like a topic that not to many other people are smart enough to teach people through a video.
I always just thought about aiming a couple inches high at 7yd. I never considered the bottom part of eotech reticle might be there for a reason. I learned something new today 👍🏼
Yeah dude that’s what the hash marks on that circle reticle are for. Just like on a duplex reticle you can use the point where the crosshair goes from thick to thin. There’s usually a little arrow or triangle there. That’s what it’s for
Ya, same with the top mark and the sides for leading depending on distance and speed of target obviously, but, it’s all part of the process, time at the range lends itself to real world uses and becomes muscle memory once you know your weapons details. I love the 36 yard zero tho. It becomes instinctual fast and easy.
I’ve been using 36 yard zero for years now. Every class I go to the instructor asks everyone what their rifles are zerod for. Most everyone is 50/100. I always get the hmmm face from the instructor when I say 36. It works for me and is a no brainer all day. Dead on at 300 aim high 400-600… 🙌🏽
@@JackBurton7130 smooth brain energy trying to bring someone down lol. Glad I saw this a year later, you’ve prob put less than 500 rounds down range this year. 😆
Really great information! Thank you for taking the time to educate people on the different zeros and how they differ. 36 yards definitely seems like a no brainer when broken down like that. I appreciate you taking the time and considering that the vast majority of indoor ranges only go to 25 yards. Having that target to zero it in will definitely make things easier! Keep up the amazing work man I love your channel and what you do and represent!
Down to your voice the intro , the space you take between words . It Al gives that feeling of home , of familiarity , comfort, safe, the feeling of when you get home . Your show brings that type of peace .
This is bonkers. More technical videos like this would be more than appreciated. When you combine experience, top-knowledge and right-sized candor, people learn and change quick. Great stuff. Roger that lol
Well, for a rifle at that distance with a great optic that was a sorry group. MOA that and you missed a man size target. The dude was taking his time and I was wondering why is he shooting so slow for 7 yards but after seeing the group I realized this guy is a new shooter.
Thanks for making the target! After doing some research, I decided that when I upgrade my optic I'm going to try the 36 yard zero and I'm glad I found your video. Your chart made so much more sense than looking at bullet trajectory line graphs.
Cant wait to thank you in person finally ,We'll I'm planning a trip to see you guys! Almost done saving my lunch money and have cut back on duds to 1 box a day ,just trying to fig out the headache from driving all my gear/guns/rounds/mags /crayons /ect. through different states and laws (alot) lol .maybe you could help out with a quick vid on that?I'm for Utah so atleast i dodged the cali bullet lol thanks again guys ,great vid as always and stay safe brothers!
The most underrated “tactical” or “firearms” or “survival” (whatever you want to call it) channel on UA-cam. There are a lot of channels out there putting out information that just simply isn’t right, sometimes even dangerous. Everything, all the information from Vigilance Elite is money. I trust Shawn, and Vigilance with my life. Any advice/information that Vigilance is putting out = accurate, trustworthy, life saving, time saving stuff. Thank You!
It’s important to know this is with a lower 1/3 optic height. The ballistic curve of your bullet changes drastically depending on the height of the mount. Using a Unity Fast mount or similar changes your spread pretty significantly…
@@karlieacevedo1051 no. This “36 yard zero” principle only applies to a lower 1/3rd optic mount with the ammo and barrel length Shawn is using. Change any one of those factors and your point of impact will change at each distance. Just know your own data for your own setup thats all.
I had no idea Shawn was teaching guys these things. I’ve heard him mention it before. This was really cool to see him doing this. Love Your show Shawn! Been watching you since day one sir.
I like the 36 yard however, training with LE over the last 20 years, we have to work to the lowest common denominator. We stood with 50 yard zero. The main reason is the splits that you indicated. We are not as likely to engage out to 300 except for our SWAT guys. Also, it makes the optics adjustments easier to teach... Again, lowest common denominator. Great info, thanks Shawn
Revisiting this vid in 2025, absolutely awesome zeroing info. I’ve been using the 36yd zero since first coming across this about 5 years ago and foresee no need to ever change it. Thanks Shawn for having assembled this data for us!
Imagine if the camera man was paying attention and kept it on the target while he was pointing at all the details. Fortunately we get the idea and understand but I watched this years ago and thought nothing of it, but, dam you’ve came a long way. Love the channel.
Just a quick update on my end. I placed a target at 36 yards today and shot my M-4 carbine there. Turned out to be dead zeroed where you recommend. Interestingly I also have a Model 1896/11 Swiss rifle. It is sporterized and scoped. Very accurate, but it requires a specialized scope mount because it's a top-ejecting straight pull, chambered in .308. It just so happens that the center of the reticle is right at 2.7 inches above the bore center. At 36 yards, guess what? Lol, it is zeroed. I verified your ballistics at 100 and again at 300 yards. That .308 with 150 grain soft points shot the same trajectory as the 5.56 rounds did. This is just a validation of your information here. So again, thanks for the great video.
@@ShawnRyanShow It might not work on a typical .308/7.62 since most of them will have the scope lower than this Swiss rifle. But on a K31, M1911, or a 96/11 it sure does the trick.
Great info. But yeah, I believe 2.5" above center bore is not too common. For instance, I've got ARs that are more like 1.5". I will have to do my own test and report back with results for this difference of our bore centers. Good info, Doby.
@@yellowmanusa Just zeroed my G3 at 36 yards a couple of days ago. I used the 200 meter aperture since my old eyes like aperture sights rather than the open "V" 100 meter notch. Again, out to 250 I was destroying water filled half gallon milk jugs. At 330 I used the 300 aperture, and at 400 the correct aperture kicked in. Pretty cool.
THIS video just made me a subscriber! Excellent description of the different zero's. One question, what zero do you recommend for my AR-10 chambered in .308 (7.62x51mm NATO)? I have always gone with the 100yd zero on most of my rifles but I'll be damned if your explanation of the 36yd zero was very compelling! A reply would be greatly appreciated but I know with all you do I may not get an answer and that is ok to, at least I tried. Keep up the great work and definitely look forward to watching more of your past videos and the videos yet to come.
I'm not Shawn, but maybe I can help. Shawn is explaining a modern update of what a hunter would call "maximum point-blank range" or a soldier "battlesight zero." The idea is to set up your weapon - your rifle and cartridge - with the zero that provides the flattest trajectory out to the maximum range possible, based upon the size of the target or vital zone - in order to minimize the need for sight adjustments when under time pressure. Let's use the old M-1 Garand and its 30-06 M2 Ball (FMJ) cartridge as an example. The typical military silhouette (target) is assumed to have a shoulder width of 18-20 inches. An M-1 NM front sight post measures .062" wide, or eight moa, which also corresponds to twenty inches at 250 yards. Meaning that the width of the front sight post corresponds exactly to the BSZ of the Garand using M2 150-grain ammunition. That means our WWII G.I. with his Garand set to its BSZ mark on the elevation wheel can simply hold center-mass on any target inside of 250 yards with reasonable assurance of getting a first-round hit. And he knows whether or not the target in or outside 250 yards because of the width of his front sight post in comparison to the target. It acts as a range-finder determining the maximum extent of battle-sight zero or maximum point-blank range. ARs are generally set up with a 300 meter BSZ, meaning that the iron sights are typically set with a 25-meter zero, which provides center-mass hits on a std. silhouette out to 300m. Again, your front sight post is a crude range finder. Past 300m, you are expected to dial in the elevation on the elevation adjustment wheel of the rear carry-handle sight. If you are using an optic, if the manufacturer does not specify a zero-range, then you have some latitude to determine what works best for you. That question can best be answered by what your task (mission or use) is, the range at which you expect to shoot, and the size of your target and its vital zone. Two things make determining MPBR or BSZ easier - knowing the muzzle velocity of your chosen cartridge/load, and access to decent ballistic software program. Assuming .308 150-grain FMJ-BT at 2750 fps, using a 36-yard zero would give you a trajectory with +/- 3 inches out to 250m, and +/- 6 inches out to 300 meters. With an optic, that would probably work - but in the case of traditional iron sights, the owners manual is probably your best bet.
Thank you! I've watched about 3 other videos before this, and they all managed to convolute the information and make it harder to understand. You kept it extremely simple, and your chart was VERY helpful. Best EoTech zeroing information on UA-cam.
The neatest takeaway for me from this video was the realization that the distance you shoot to zero your rifle, and your actual zero (and bullet trajectory) can be different. I would struggle to tightly zero a red dot at 50 or 100 yards. At 10 or 25 yards it gets a lot easier. Obviously you want to confirm your close range zero lines up with your longer shots, but this will make the zeroing process considerably easier.
@@g496r500t The Army use the 25/300 which is what the A2/A4 sights are designed around. To get this zero, it's also necessary to have your rear sight bottomed out as opposed to 3 or 2 clicks up respectively while zeroing.
Yes 36 yard B.Z.O. for a general rule but the infantry rifleman is also more advanced trained in windage and elevation and marksmanship than ur average seal. I know people will blast me on that but it's just a true fact. Seals are bad ass operators. But Marines are professional riflemen and infantry that's literally our bread and butter. seals dont learn marksmanship in buds.. they get exposed to that later during their seal quals..and even then its mostly a C.Q.B. world for most seals. Except for the seals snipers or machine gunners. Where as Marines we have D.M.R (designated riflmen) and of course ur 0311 rifleman who's an expert at his M-16 rifle with respect to windage and elevation and setting dope in the sights for the various ranges of engagement out to 500 yards... I always say just look on UA-cam how many seal UA-cam videos show long range shooting as it pertains to seals? Its almost always some C.Q.B. stuff.. theys their expertise...room clearing and urban M.O.U.T stuff jungle stuff. All short range engagements.. Ita not a slam against seals at all their bad ass dudes. Its just that Marines have a different mission and the 0311 rifleman must be trained to k ow his rifles capabilities out to its maximum effective ranges and that begins in Bootcamo for Marine recruits at the rifle range where EVERY single Marine recruit learns Marksmanship and qualifies with his rifle at 200, 300 and 500 yards respectively.. who else does that in the Unites states Military??? In recruit training???? No one else does that at all Army, Navy or airforce or Coastguard.. U.S. Army recruits get good Rifletraining too at Fort Benning Georgia but only qualify out to 300 yards for their rifle badge.. NAVY? not even in buds do they even fire their rifles other than just familiarization towards the end of buds. that comes after buds Then Marines do. M.C.T. and then sustainment rifle training our entire Marine corps careers. Even if its four years. Ur getting out of service with 5 rifle qualifications (1) in Bootcamp then one or year til.u E.A.S. out back into the 1st civil div..... the only way ur waved is if ur in a "B" billet.. like Embassy duty/ or D.I. duty or Barracks duty.. or recruiting duty.. then ur rifle qualifications are waved without harming your promotion score.....or of course if ur ON DEPLOYMENT in a combat zone..or on ship..
I watched this over a year ago and came back to it so I could forward to some friends and ended up watching it all again good work appreciate your efforts and help to the community
Shawn, Great explanation of using a 36yd zero. Question: What type of ammo would you say holds that zero / spread over distance best? Is there a particular grain that would help keep a tighter group over that 25-300yd range? I've seen some others dive into the weeds in this area. I like your no-bs, to the point approach to keeping it as simple as can be. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Thanks again for ALL your service and hard work in your channel. Keep up the awesome content.
Heading to the range Saturday. Pulling out of the 100 zero, enter 36. I did save the target to "documents" and printed full scale 8.5x11. Perfect. Thanks for the free download!
Love the breakdown of this video! Does this apply, pretty closely, to other grains (62, 69, 77) or strictly 55gr? I’m assuming this would apply to irons, but figured I’d be the one to ask?
Well hot damn! That makes a lot of sense! Thank you for giving me some actual, sensible, tried and true info. So much better than some Tacti-cool dude or some armchair expert.
Excellent video with invaluable information, thank you! When you started talking about the different zeroes you said you did the math for the most popular zeros for the 5.56 caliber. Can you share what formula you used to do the math so that I can calculate how other calibers behave, including PCCs calibers? And if the length of the barrel matters, it would be nice to see that in the formula. Thanks again!
Love this Zero. Been running it for about a year and it’s amazing. Every training glass I go to people are having these big Zero conversations and they think this sounds crazy until I’m ringing steel and hitting T zones all day faster than them. Then it’s .... what was the whole 36 yd Zero again ? Thanks brother !
I don't Math in public and I sure as hell only have a rudimentary understanding of ballistics, but this video and zero proved to be a game changer for my shooting. Can't believe I'd never heard of this zero before. Thanks Shawn!
What model green marker is he using to write on the target? I'm into cloning and want to get it right, period and model correct. Can somebody zoom in on the barcode?
fordman003 id imagine there wouldnt be much a difference. The heavier the bullet the quicker the drop, so i would theorize that at 150+ yards with a 77 would increase the 5.5 inch spread by an inch or 2. Not as drastic as the 50 yard zeroing but closer to it than the 36 yard zeroing
Nice! Thanks for the info. To me the 36 yard zero is a no-brainer.
Poe Performance Right on man!
I like it....
How much does the 36yd zero change if you go from 62gr to 55gr ammo? Significant or negligible?
All this is variable. Weight of bullet, speed, altitude, and humidity all play factors. Gotta do your homework and know your exact factors.
Poe Performance that's the zero (36 yard) I used in the marine corps. As a cop I use a 50.
He catered to us and took the time to design a 25 yard target for free. That's fucking awesome! Support this guy for sure, he deserves it. I'm irate youtube took this long to recommend.
Thank you 🙏🏻
I am too. And I had to search for it
@@ShawnRyanShow I finally got to try it, took it out to 300yrds! Video up on my channel.
@@ShawnRyanShow Hey Shawn just wondering if you could provide some way to do this with 77gr rounds.
@@dirtyharry2029 on his page he explains the 77gr is .7 inches below POA instead of .72 inches with the 55gr.
The video is 6 years old at this time and it's hands down the best explanation on how to zero a rifle along with the trajectories of other zeros. Shawn is a freaking legend for this video and on top of that he took the time to desig the target and make it available to us for free. He 100% deserves all the amazing things God has blessed him and his family with
Was in the military 33 years and that is the best explanation I’ve ever heard. Thank you.
Thank you for your service
You're a legend Ron. Thanks for serving our nation.
4 yrs later still probably the best explanation of zeroing for my purposes. Thanks!
Outstanding, Sir, thank you!
Who else comes back and re-watches this video whenever it shows up again in their algorithm list? I think I've watched this thing four times. Still fun and informative. Maybe I'm just slow.
Yup!
Me2.😎
I can't even count how many times I have forwarded to others.
Every chance I get. He tells the tactical truth. Very mater of fact type instructor 😏👌
You got that spot on
Did you seriously make a printable 25 yard target perfect for the indoor range so we can do this? Awesome, man. Thanks a ton.
Dylan C what a stud move. This is a lifesaver
or just use any target at 25yd and make your rounds hit 1" low..same thing
@@TimKollat have small backyard, from inside bedroom window to retaining wall I have 65-68feet(around 22 yards) would I just lower another inch- 2 inches total? (I just got that site mark 500 laser bore sighter) Hey thanks, I will be voting Pro 2A this election!
14.5” DDM4A1 w/ eotech xps2 and this works fantastic. Sighted in 36 & immediately moved to 300 and punched steel. Aimed for the middle of a 9x16 plate and heard nothing but dings. This video is truth.
Johnny Doe that’s awesome to hear man. Cheers 🍻
Nice setup, what ammo did you use?
Dirty Steve federal xm193.
Why the 14.5?, just curious
Tryed it with a 7.5" barrel but gotta hold a little higher due to ballistic differences. It was expected
Former Army Ranger here (1985-1993), still love to shoot at 52 Years young, and living in Arizona affords me the opportunity to do so. This zero is amazing to say the least! Thanks for taking time to make this video and the targets as well. Thanks for your service brother, since 9/11, I always slept good at night knowing guys like you were out there doing what you do.
Just moved here, just got into guns and long range shooting as well, I say let's keep it this way.
Just had 3 days in QV. The Sherrif showed up Friday put up a big tent and we shot together.
Arizona here as well. Thank you for your service sir! Love it here…will never live anywhere else.
Sean, printed out the target to 8.5 x 11 inch, took it to the range and damn what a great zero. Your holds were right on. Thank you for taking the time Sean!!! (The old 24th inf dude in the northeast). Made my damn day
Does how high you have your optic mounted make a difference where you aim on the target? I have a Holosun 510C with the 1/3 riser.
When people give detailed instructions like this Hero does, there should be no excuse to understand fully!!! Thank you 🙏
@Mike Bastiat Glad to see you are Pro-Life. Maybe we were watching a different video than you, but those targets were not babies. They were simulated potential enemies. You probably should just thank the Shawn for his service and courage while you were here protesting. Just sayin
@Mike Bastiat who’s killin babies?
@@borrago lol yes, thank you for the correction!
@mikebastiat...... you're the biggest IDIOT I've ever seen on the internet!
I tested this out yesterday. Tested it with a DDM4V7. 1 &7 twist. With fiocchi 55grn. FMJ. Started at 25 went to 300yards. Came out exactly the way it was shown here. Awesome zero.
I just shot my DDM4V7 out to 300 yards for the first time a few weeks ago, and was surprised to see how dead on this zero was!
Sweet! I’ve got the same rifle, I’ll do the 36 zero as well.
@@3wholepunchjim are you serious? He literally answers this with his free target.
What size paper did you print the target? 8.5x11?
Thanks for testing this instead of just eating up information. I guess I'll be looking at this zero as well. :)
Hands down the best zero vid I’ve ever watched. Keep up the good work! I know how much time goes into these, so just know other creatives appreciate the effort!
The Helix Corner
This comment motivates the hell out of me. Thank you.
absolutely man. Gotta give credit and encouragement where its due!
Brent 0331 has a good one, also, about this same sort of subject. One of the better I've seen. Not explicitly about zeroing but about effective reticle usage and what each hash means, etc... Basically an extension of this vid.
Edit: Turns out it was a review of an ACSS reticle and some other stuff...ACOGs and more. Link below. I apologize in advance if anything in this is wrong or misleading or if I shouldn't have posted a link to somebody else's channel.
ua-cam.com/video/OksBIvXvSoI/v-deo.html
Did you guys check that video in the link I left? It's an extremely good video, IMO. But then, I didn't know any of that and wouldn't know if any of it was incorrect.
Agreed. As a civilian, I'd never even considered this and always sighted to 50 or 100. VERY good information, thank you!
Shawn, thank you for taking the time to give us this video AND the target! Invaluable information! Been out of the service since 81, finally got off my ass, paid the price for a mass pre ban (I know, I know) and finally find this on your UA-cam channel. GREAT INFORMATION! Just printed out my targets and heading for the range. Currently zero'd at 30 yards and cant wait to re-zero!! Thank you Sir!! Now, if i can just find some damn ammo!
That was the best explanation ever of the effect of different zeros on rifle.
Thank you brother
Thanks man, we did 36 yard zero in the Marines but were never really told why. Since I've been out, I zeroed my rifle at 100 but had no idea the actual hold pattern.... cant wait to take this target to the indoor range and get it zeroed properly. Can't say thank you enough for the awesome content and making this target (you must be a physics genius).
That or just did a Google search for 25 vs 36 yard zero. It's been out for a few decades.
@@wilcoxtactical3716 Obviously it's been out but the ability to explain the science behind it is what's valuable. Sure he may be regurgitating stuff he read/heard or..... he's a closeted physics genius
@Tyler-vw9bh The 100 yard zero isn’t bad at all. It’s like a laser pointer out to 200 yards. As far as holds go, always hold high. Worst case scenario is that your shot is 2” low.
Firstly, I want to thank you for taking the time to create a target and put it on your web page for all of us to use. I really do appreciate it.
I bet if we taught military concepts dealing with mathematics in grade school, young boys would be more interested in math and science. The word problems would be pretty gruesome though.
Hell yah learning ballistics
I’m 13 I would have a 110% in math
I agree
Or sports
That is why I sucked at Math from elementary until College where a Professor taught us real world applications to calculus.
You made the concept of zeroing a hell of a lot simpler, for a hell of a lot of folks. Nice visual representation of the trajectory spread/POI at distance. Keep up the awesome vids. Thanks brother
This is by far the BEST explanation on zeroing. Thank you for calculating and showing the bullet impact at different yardage. I personally have my rifle set to 50 yrd and to visually see where the bullets could land is going to make it so much easier to picture and calculate holds if needed. Thanks for sharing you knowledge and experience with us and hoping for your continued success with the podcast man.
I just found out about this guy this morning while cruising the comments section on someone else channel. At about the 1:00 mark, I paused and subscribed. Learned more in 10 fricking minutes than in hours of watching others. Seriously felt like I was in a "classroom" environment. When I find out how your channel is supported, you WILL get mine. Thank you sir.
Yeah I wish he wasn't on the opposite side of the country from me, because I would take all his classes if I lived close
"Breaking the line here a little bit Manny." Gotta love that dry ass humor from Shawn. ROFL. 2:48
I have always used the 50 yard zero. Just having to zero at less then 50 is fanfreakingtastic with my eyes getting older. Gonna try that 36 yard zero. Thanks. Much appreciated
Sam Thomas I think this will work well for you. The 50 is also a good zero though.
Set target at 10 yards and shoot. Point of impact will be 1.9 inch below the point of aim....now your zero is set to a 50 yard zero
You're welcome
@@ShawnRyanShow thanks for what you do and I Glad you made it back home Brother
@@robertsalyers1351 Thanks!
@@ShawnRyanShow will this be different for a 45° offset reddot?
For the record, this video alone has increased my accuracy 100 fold. Thank you, Shawn.
I've never heard of a 36 yard zero but this was one of the best explanations of real world sighting I've ever heard... and thanks for the free target.
I just started 3 gun a month ago. The long range stages I’ve shot have given me problems and I didn’t know why. I was zeroed at 25 yds because even for all my research, it’s what I was told was best. No wonder I’ve been having issues with a 4” plate at 150 yards!! Even with a big hold under, I’ve been WAY high. Now I know. And knowing is 1/2 the battle. Much appreciated for all this info!! This week I’ll be heading back to the range to zero my rifle again. Im super stoked for my next 3 gun match!! Thanks so much!!
Interesting stuff, never seen a 36 yard zero before but makes sense
Awesome, this is exactly what i was looking for! Thank you for giving us that target especially without asking anything in return for it, that's a huge contribution to the community although most may not realize the significance of it. Semper fi
Dude. Hands down the most informative video about zeros I’ve ever seen. In a 5 year old video at that. Seems like a topic that not to many other people are smart enough to teach people through a video.
Best explanation I have ever seen on youtube (over the past 10 years) on how to zero your rifle. Keep up the good work .
That's awesome to hear man. Thank you
Keep up the great Vids man!
I always just thought about aiming a couple inches high at 7yd. I never considered the bottom part of eotech reticle might be there for a reason. I learned something new today 👍🏼
Yeah dude that’s what the hash marks on that circle reticle are for. Just like on a duplex reticle you can use the point where the crosshair goes from thick to thin. There’s usually a little arrow or triangle there. That’s what it’s for
Ya, same with the top mark and the sides for leading depending on distance and speed of target obviously, but, it’s all part of the process, time at the range lends itself to real world uses and becomes muscle memory once you know your weapons details. I love the 36 yard zero tho. It becomes instinctual fast and easy.
I’ve been using 36 yard zero for years now. Every class I go to the instructor asks everyone what their rifles are zerod for. Most everyone is 50/100. I always get the hmmm face from the instructor when I say 36. It works for me and is a no brainer all day. Dead on at 300 aim high 400-600… 🙌🏽
Sure bro
@@JackBurton7130 take that cck out of your mouth before talking to me please.
No thinking zero! I previously had all my rifles zeroed at 100 yards. Going to take them all out and rezero them to 36 yards. Outstanding info…
@@JackBurton7130 smooth brain energy trying to bring someone down lol. Glad I saw this a year later, you’ve prob put less than 500 rounds down range this year. 😆
Really great information! Thank you for taking the time to educate people on the different zeros and how they differ. 36 yards definitely seems like a no brainer when broken down like that. I appreciate you taking the time and considering that the vast majority of indoor ranges only go to 25 yards. Having that target to zero it in will definitely make things easier! Keep up the amazing work man I love your channel and what you do and represent!
This is still the best video on this subject. It's definitely worth a remake with a skilled camera man.
Fantastic, guess who's re-zeroing their rifle today? Nice hot ending.
rsuninv awesome!
I got too many rifles to rezero ;)
@@er98ah can only use one rifle at a time... ;)
Armoured Outlaw I got a big family, ain’t nobody coming to my farm for steak ;)
This video explains why a 36 yard zero is a damn good zero! Thank you guys for all of your knowledge sharing!
I must say this 36 yard zero is amazing. I re-zeroed mine standard red dot to it last weekend and what a difference,, it flat works.
Down to your voice the intro , the space you take between words . It Al gives that feeling of home , of familiarity , comfort, safe, the feeling of when you get home . Your show brings that type of peace .
Just used the 36 yard zero target today at my local range. It worked perfectly. Thanks a bunch for everything you do Shawn
How many clicks per MOA at 36 yards if you have a 0.5 adjustment optic?
This is bonkers. More technical videos like this would be more than appreciated. When you combine experience, top-knowledge and right-sized candor, people learn and change quick. Great stuff.
Roger that lol
Thank you for taking the time to explain this - Your thoughts, work, and videos are super appreciated and inspiring at the same time.
The sound of disgust @ 2 minutes and 50 seconds "your breaking the line a little bit here manny" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Well, for a rifle at that distance with a great optic that was a sorry group. MOA that and you missed a man size target. The dude was taking his time and I was wondering why is he shooting so slow for 7 yards but after seeing the group I realized this guy is a new shooter.
Nerves kick up a little when you have cameras pointed at you too.
Thanks for making the target! After doing some research, I decided that when I upgrade my optic I'm going to try the 36 yard zero and I'm glad I found your video. Your chart made so much more sense than looking at bullet trajectory line graphs.
Cant wait to thank you in person finally ,We'll I'm planning a trip to see you guys! Almost done saving my lunch money and have cut back on duds to 1 box a day ,just trying to fig out the headache from driving all my gear/guns/rounds/mags /crayons /ect. through different states and laws (alot) lol .maybe you could help out with a quick vid on that?I'm for Utah so atleast i dodged the cali bullet lol thanks again guys ,great vid as always and stay safe brothers!
RISKY BIZKUTS It will be awesome to train with you. I’d start by googling reciprocity laws of the states you’re driving through.
36 yard zero for Milk Dud box sized group out to 300? sign me up
Stephen Pepper Hahaha why would you shoot milk duds? 😂
@@ShawnRyanShow have you ever eaten a milk dud?! Damn things are chewy rocks. He better watch it will probably ricochet off them hard bastards 😂
Fun sized rf movie theatre sized?
Mmm Milk Duds
@David Liu same question. B 1/8 wpns platoon 0341.
Dude, thank god you exist. Seriously, you’re gifted at teaching!
The most underrated “tactical” or “firearms” or “survival” (whatever you want to call it) channel on UA-cam. There are a lot of channels out there putting out information that just simply isn’t right, sometimes even dangerous. Everything, all the information from Vigilance Elite is money. I trust Shawn, and Vigilance with my life. Any advice/information that Vigilance is putting out = accurate, trustworthy, life saving, time saving stuff. Thank You!
36 yard zero, is now my favorite. It just makes sense! Thank you Brother for taking the time to explain this. God Bless you!
"He once made a flamethrower out of a fire extinguisher and an empty box of milk duds, Shawn Ryan the most interesting man in the world."
Fred Davis Haha 😂
The new most interesting man in the world sucks.... Shawn would be so much better.
haha Thanks.
I've been doing about 1/2 inch low at 25 for years. Basically the same. I like hitting what I'm aiming at. Great video.
Thank you for tuning in. Cheers
It’s important to know this is with a lower 1/3 optic height. The ballistic curve of your bullet changes drastically depending on the height of the mount. Using a Unity Fast mount or similar changes your spread pretty significantly…
Would the principle of zeroing it how the video shows still apply?
@@karlieacevedo1051 no. This “36 yard zero” principle only applies to a lower 1/3rd optic mount with the ammo and barrel length Shawn is using. Change any one of those factors and your point of impact will change at each distance. Just know your own data for your own setup thats all.
I had no idea Shawn was teaching guys these things. I’ve heard him mention it before. This was really cool to see him doing this. Love
Your show Shawn! Been watching you since day one sir.
almost 3 years after this and im just finding this.....this is good stuff man thanks so much
Great video, clearly explained. I've watched it 3 times over the past year testing and figuring out different zero's. Thanks!
Take a shot of tequila every time he says “7 yards and in”
Mylifeonearth I would not recommend that. 😂
no thanks man, not tryin to die today
haha
That's all the excuse I needed to drink
I’d rather take my chances with a shot to the credit card...
I like the 36 yard however, training with LE over the last 20 years, we have to work to the lowest common denominator. We stood with 50 yard zero.
The main reason is the splits that you indicated. We are not as likely to engage out to 300 except for our SWAT guys. Also, it makes the optics adjustments easier to teach... Again, lowest common denominator.
Great info, thanks Shawn
Revisiting this vid in 2025, absolutely awesome zeroing info. I’ve been using the 36yd zero since first coming across this about 5 years ago and foresee no need to ever change it. Thanks Shawn for having assembled this data for us!
Imagine if the camera man was paying attention and kept it on the target while he was pointing at all the details. Fortunately we get the idea and understand but I watched this years ago and thought nothing of it, but, dam you’ve came a long way. Love the channel.
I'm glad this hasn't been shadowbanned yet! I need to sight in my red-dot properly this week, and I'm gonna use this method! Thank you again, SR!
Great topic, and best explanation I've ever heard to prove the point. Many thanks!
Thank you for tuning in. Cheers
Just a quick update on my end. I placed a target at 36 yards today and shot my M-4 carbine there. Turned out to be dead zeroed where you recommend. Interestingly I also have a Model 1896/11 Swiss rifle. It is sporterized and scoped. Very accurate, but it requires a specialized scope mount because it's a top-ejecting straight pull, chambered in .308. It just so happens that the center of the reticle is right at 2.7 inches above the bore center. At 36 yards, guess what? Lol, it is zeroed. I verified your ballistics at 100 and again at 300 yards. That .308 with 150 grain soft points shot the same trajectory as the 5.56 rounds did. This is just a validation of your information here. So again, thanks for the great video.
I did not know that about the 308 man. Thank you for putting that out. I'm stoked to hear you like the zero.
@@ShawnRyanShow It might not work on a typical .308/7.62 since most of them will have the scope lower than this Swiss rifle. But on a K31, M1911, or a 96/11 it sure does the trick.
Great info. But yeah, I believe 2.5" above center bore is not too common. For instance, I've got ARs that are more like 1.5". I will have to do my own test and report back with results for this difference of our bore centers. Good info, Doby.
@@yellowmanusa Just zeroed my G3 at 36 yards a couple of days ago. I used the 200 meter aperture since my old eyes like aperture sights rather than the open "V" 100 meter notch. Again, out to 250 I was destroying water filled half gallon milk jugs. At 330 I used the 300 aperture, and at 400 the correct aperture kicked in. Pretty cool.
Fantastic follow-up, Doby. I am going to log this info in my books. Good to know, and thanks a bunch.
The absolute best video I've seen on the effect of different zeros for a 5.56 / 223. Thank you !!
Love it. Thank you for the targetry. Also, just bought a sponsor product (spiced salt) with your promo code. You are killing it.
THIS video just made me a subscriber! Excellent description of the different zero's. One question, what zero do you recommend for my AR-10 chambered in .308 (7.62x51mm NATO)? I have always gone with the 100yd zero on most of my rifles but I'll be damned if your explanation of the 36yd zero was very compelling! A reply would be greatly appreciated but I know with all you do I may not get an answer and that is ok to, at least I tried. Keep up the great work and definitely look forward to watching more of your past videos and the videos yet to come.
Thank you for tuning in. Cheers
I'm not Shawn, but maybe I can help. Shawn is explaining a modern update of what a hunter would call "maximum point-blank range" or a soldier "battlesight zero." The idea is to set up your weapon - your rifle and cartridge - with the zero that provides the flattest trajectory out to the maximum range possible, based upon the size of the target or vital zone - in order to minimize the need for sight adjustments when under time pressure. Let's use the old M-1 Garand and its 30-06 M2 Ball (FMJ) cartridge as an example. The typical military silhouette (target) is assumed to have a shoulder width of 18-20 inches. An M-1 NM front sight post measures .062" wide, or eight moa, which also corresponds to twenty inches at 250 yards. Meaning that the width of the front sight post corresponds exactly to the BSZ of the Garand using M2 150-grain ammunition. That means our WWII G.I. with his Garand set to its BSZ mark on the elevation wheel can simply hold center-mass on any target inside of 250 yards with reasonable assurance of getting a first-round hit. And he knows whether or not the target in or outside 250 yards because of the width of his front sight post in comparison to the target. It acts as a range-finder determining the maximum extent of battle-sight zero or maximum point-blank range. ARs are generally set up with a 300 meter BSZ, meaning that the iron sights are typically set with a 25-meter zero, which provides center-mass hits on a std. silhouette out to 300m. Again, your front sight post is a crude range finder. Past 300m, you are expected to dial in the elevation on the elevation adjustment wheel of the rear carry-handle sight. If you are using an optic, if the manufacturer does not specify a zero-range, then you have some latitude to determine what works best for you. That question can best be answered by what your task (mission or use) is, the range at which you expect to shoot, and the size of your target and its vital zone. Two things make determining MPBR or BSZ easier - knowing the muzzle velocity of your chosen cartridge/load, and access to decent ballistic software program. Assuming .308 150-grain FMJ-BT at 2750 fps, using a 36-yard zero would give you a trajectory with +/- 3 inches out to 250m, and +/- 6 inches out to 300 meters. With an optic, that would probably work - but in the case of traditional iron sights, the owners manual is probably your best bet.
This is Great information well explained and shown this will help anyone with zeroing questions !
James Heeney Thank you 🙏
F••k, time to re zero all my s••t. At least you did me the solid of making a 25 yard target.
Thank you! I've watched about 3 other videos before this, and they all managed to convolute the information and make it harder to understand. You kept it extremely simple, and your chart was VERY helpful. Best EoTech zeroing information on UA-cam.
This is easily the best and simplest explanation of zeroing I've found. Thank you, Shawn. Excellent work.
The neatest takeaway for me from this video was the realization that the distance you shoot to zero your rifle, and your actual zero (and bullet trajectory) can be different.
I would struggle to tightly zero a red dot at 50 or 100 yards. At 10 or 25 yards it gets a lot easier.
Obviously you want to confirm your close range zero lines up with your longer shots, but this will make the zeroing process considerably easier.
The Marine Corps has used a 36yd zero for a long time, specifically because of wanting POA/POI engagements out to 300yds.
KnifeHand03 surprised this is a surprise to people ... army uses this zero as well it’s what the M16A2 elevation adjustments were made for
@@g496r500t The Army use the 25/300 which is what the A2/A4 sights are designed around. To get this zero, it's also necessary to have your rear sight bottomed out as opposed to 3 or 2 clicks up respectively while zeroing.
Didnt use it in the early 90s
KnifeHand03 dont know when you were in but they were still doing 36 yd bzo from ‘06-‘11 for our A2’s and A4’s
Yes 36 yard B.Z.O. for a general rule but the infantry rifleman is also more advanced trained in windage and elevation and marksmanship than ur average seal. I know people will blast me on that but it's just a true fact. Seals are bad ass operators. But Marines are professional riflemen and infantry that's literally our bread and butter. seals dont learn marksmanship in buds.. they get exposed to that later during their seal quals..and even then its mostly a C.Q.B. world for most seals. Except for the seals snipers or machine gunners. Where as Marines we have D.M.R (designated riflmen) and of course ur 0311 rifleman who's an expert at his M-16 rifle with respect to windage and elevation and setting dope in the sights for the various ranges of engagement out to 500 yards... I always say just look on UA-cam how many seal UA-cam videos show long range shooting as it pertains to seals? Its almost always some C.Q.B. stuff.. theys their expertise...room clearing and urban M.O.U.T stuff jungle stuff. All short range engagements..
Ita not a slam against seals at all their bad ass dudes.
Its just that Marines have a different mission and the 0311 rifleman must be trained to k ow his rifles capabilities out to its maximum effective ranges and that begins in Bootcamo for Marine recruits at the rifle range where EVERY single Marine recruit learns Marksmanship and qualifies with his rifle at 200, 300 and 500 yards respectively.. who else does that in the Unites states Military??? In recruit training???? No one else does that at all Army, Navy or airforce or Coastguard.. U.S. Army recruits get good Rifletraining too at Fort Benning Georgia but only qualify out to 300 yards for their rifle badge.. NAVY? not even in buds do they even fire their rifles other than just familiarization towards the end of buds. that comes after buds
Then Marines do. M.C.T. and then sustainment rifle training our entire Marine corps careers. Even if its four years. Ur getting out of service with 5 rifle qualifications (1) in Bootcamp then one or year til.u E.A.S. out back into the 1st civil div..... the only way ur waved is if ur in a "B" billet.. like Embassy duty/ or D.I. duty or Barracks duty.. or recruiting duty.. then ur rifle qualifications are waved without harming your promotion score.....or of course if ur ON DEPLOYMENT in a combat zone..or on ship..
Very well explained , and saves the shooter a lot of guessing. Thanks
Leonard Janda hbfkcvvg
Indeed, Travis Haley made a video just like this also.
Thank you man. I’m glad you got something out of it.
@@chickensandwich1589 yes but if I recall correctly, the video had some information backwards, and the video was pulled due to this.
I watched this over a year ago and came back to it so I could forward to some friends and ended up watching it all again good work appreciate your efforts and help to the community
Thank you for taking the time. Never heard of this before I saw this video. Love the 36 ydr working great on my rifles!
Shawn, Great explanation of using a 36yd zero. Question: What type of ammo would you say holds that zero / spread over distance best? Is there a particular grain that would help keep a tighter group over that 25-300yd range? I've seen some others dive into the weeds in this area. I like your no-bs, to the point approach to keeping it as simple as can be. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Thanks again for ALL your service and hard work in your channel. Keep up the awesome content.
I think Shawn stated in a different video he prefers black hills 77g. Flatter trajectory.
@@tallen8745 says 5.56 55 gr on the target - t
Great information as always the 36 is a true winner I will be signing in on that now thanks very much
Thank you for tuning in. Cheers
Thank you again. I now run the 36 yarder on all my AR's. What would you recommend for an AR-10? In .308 Winchester/7.62×51 NATO?
I'd say a 100 yard zero
@@powderedbuns8251 yes. 100 yards
Heading to the range Saturday. Pulling out of the 100 zero, enter 36. I did save the target to "documents" and printed full scale 8.5x11. Perfect. Thanks for the free download!
Disappointed the target isn’t drawn in crayon. Thanks for the great info
He's not a Marine... and if he was they would have been eaten probably.
he is/was and then CIA. Get to know your instructors.
Dale Taylor Jr. he was a navy seal/ cia know your instructors
@@daletaylorjr.4786 dip shit
Bill Gotti I have a dip in while taking a shit. *x files music plays in the background*
Need to watch this when i am sober. Great video but the math is making my head spin lol
hahaha
Love the breakdown of this video! Does this apply, pretty closely, to other grains (62, 69, 77) or strictly 55gr? I’m assuming this would apply to irons, but figured I’d be the one to ask?
AWESOME! Great demonstration and thanks for taking the time to do it and for the target!
What a journey you have been on. This was the first video I ever watched of yours. Thanks for the great content.
Well hot damn! That makes a lot of sense! Thank you for giving me some actual, sensible, tried and true info. So much better than some Tacti-cool dude or some armchair expert.
Excellent video with invaluable information, thank you!
When you started talking about the different zeroes you said you did the math for the most popular zeros for the 5.56 caliber. Can you share what formula you used to do the math so that I can calculate how other calibers behave, including PCCs calibers? And if the length of the barrel matters, it would be nice to see that in the formula.
Thanks again!
Love how you have a tourniquet on the stock of the rifle
Thanks
Listened to this on the way to the range. Zero’d my new build at 36 yards. I’m very happy! Thanks brother!
Just downloaded a bunch of these targets. I have been using 50yrd zero cant wait to try this. It will be perfect for my 13.7 build. Thanks Shawn
RDS, 36 is the key. Magnified optic, 100. Reason. "Most" BDC work off the 100 meter/yard zero. Thanks for the share!!
Complicated topic yes. But you explained it really well. I usually get lost trying to follow this stuff. Not this time though.
Mark G That’s good to hear. Thank you for watching.
Good Info on offset and 36 yd zero thank you
teedog427 Cheers 🍻
Love this Zero. Been running it for about a year and it’s amazing. Every training glass I go to people are having these big Zero conversations and they think this sounds crazy until I’m ringing steel and hitting T zones all day faster than them. Then it’s .... what was the whole 36 yd Zero again ? Thanks brother !
I've found that the 36 yard zero works great with my 6.5 grendel and 6mm arc as well, thanks for another great video
I don't Math in public and I sure as hell only have a rudimentary understanding of ballistics, but this video and zero proved to be a game changer for my shooting. Can't believe I'd never heard of this zero before. Thanks Shawn!
What model green marker is he using to write on the target? I'm into cloning and want to get it right, period and model correct. Can somebody zoom in on the barcode?
Wtf
@@UA-camuser1aa Send it as a p.m., so that it doesn't drive the price up on the open market.
Very informative video,thank you. I was just curious what would the chart look like for 7.62 x 39 round? Would it be a lot different?
I did my Ak at 25 yards and can smoke 300 all day with crap ammo lol
Well I guess I’m gonna go to the range tomorrow
Right on man.
Shawn Ryan is not only a war hero but a hero for 1st A freedom and speech and has impacted countless lives with what we all need to know. 🇺🇸
Hey frog, this may be the best video on the net right now. Seriously. Had no idea. Thank you.
I need one of those hats!
Caleb Case coming soon! Thank you.
How would this be affected if using 62 or 77 grain?
fordman003 id imagine there wouldnt be much a difference. The heavier the bullet the quicker the drop, so i would theorize that at 150+ yards with a 77 would increase the 5.5 inch spread by an inch or 2. Not as drastic as the 50 yard zeroing but closer to it than the 36 yard zeroing
Not by much. You will have a truer flight with the good shit.
Heavier bullet will just stabilize faster so should be close to same