MOA Adjustments for Elevation

Angle units.

Understanding the relationship between MOA (Minute of Angle) and elevation is crucial for accurate long range shooting. This unit will guide you through the process of calculating and making MOA adjustments for different elevations.

Understanding the Relationship Between MOA and Elevation

MOA is a unit of measurement used in long range shooting to adjust the aim of the rifle for bullet drop over distance. One MOA is approximately equal to 1.047 inches at 100 yards, which is often rounded down to 1 inch for simplicity. This means that for every 100 yards of distance, the bullet will drop approximately 1 inch.

When shooting at targets at different elevations, the bullet drop will change. For example, shooting uphill or downhill will cause the bullet to hit higher than the point of aim. This is due to the effect of gravity on the bullet, which pulls it downwards. When shooting uphill or downhill, the bullet is fighting against gravity, which causes it to drop less than it would when shooting on a flat surface.

Calculating MOA Adjustments for Different Elevations

To calculate MOA adjustments for different elevations, you need to know the angle of the shot and the distance to the target. The formula for calculating MOA adjustments for elevation is:

MOA adjustment = (Distance to target in yards / 100) x Tan (angle of shot in degrees)

For example, if you are shooting at a target 500 yards away at an angle of 30 degrees, the MOA adjustment would be:

MOA adjustment = (500 / 100) x Tan (30) = 5 x 0.577 = 2.885 MOA

This means you would need to adjust your scope 2.885 MOA upwards to account for the elevation.

Practical Exercises on Making MOA Adjustments for Elevation

To practice making MOA adjustments for elevation, you can use a shooting range with targets at different elevations. Start by calculating the MOA adjustment for each target using the formula above. Then, adjust your scope accordingly and take your shot.

Remember to take note of where your bullet hits. If it hits higher or lower than the point of aim, you may need to make further adjustments. This could be due to factors such as wind or changes in atmospheric pressure, which can also affect the trajectory of the bullet.

In conclusion, understanding and applying MOA adjustments for elevation is a key skill in long range shooting. With practice, you will be able to make these adjustments quickly and accurately, improving your overall shooting performance.