Sight Height of Scope above the Barrel
In an earlier blog entry, I gave you a link to a calculator that helps you determine the Optimum Point Blank Zero for your particular scope, gun, and pellet combination. This calculation is provided by Steve in NC as he is known on the YellowForum, an airgun enthusiast site. However, it occurred to me that some of you might not be able to determine the scope height on your gun. Here is a simple way to get that particular number without a great deal of trouble and calculation on your part.
Take a sheet of aluminum foil and cover the objective bell of your scope, creasing around the bell edge to make the circle appear on the foil. Now remove the sheet and poke a small hole in the center. Replace the foil on the scope again and take the next step.
Place a cardboard or other suitable target material one foot in front of your muzzle....that's right, just one foot. Draw a point of aim such as a small dot on the target. Find the point of aim in your foil-covered scope and fire a shot. Measure the distance from the point of aim to the hole made by the pellet, and you have a very close measurement of the scope's height above the bore.
You will need to illuminate the point of aim with a good light since the foil defeats the incoming light to the scope. If you need a visual to help understand the above process, here is a link that will assist you in this little experiment.
http://www.network54.com/Forum/79537/message/1191092281/
I'd love to hear back from those of you who decide to try this little experiment, as well as how well the calculations work for you in determining the Optimum Point Blank Zero. The more accurate your airgun becomes, the more fun it is!
