Canted Optics Zeroing Tips – 45 Degree Red Dot Setup

Learning how to zero canted optics accurately by eliminating offsets. It can be tricky if you're not paying attention to the mount you're using.

When you do it right, it makes a long-range rifle close quarters ready 

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Canted Zeroing Tips - Parts Needed

A micro red dot sight - The Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C are highly recommend, check out more here

An good offset mount - The Trijicon offset mount works pretty good, check out more here

Canted Optics Zeroing Procedure

5.56 NATO 55gr 

1. Make sure the overall profile of the optic aligns with the axis of the barrel in canted position. Minimize the barrel offset yields greater accuracy
2. Set the target at 25 yards (Please check out 36 yard zero results here)
3. Send 3 rounds down range
4. Measure missed distance from point of impact to point of aim - Windage and elevation
5. Use the following equation to calculate exact clicks to dial - ((missed distance inches / 0.25) / MOA click value)
6. Test shot group again to confirm canted zero

>>Click here to get the full guide on how to calculate MOA ( Minute of Angle) 

Point Of Aim and Point Of Impact Offset

Cant the rifle doesn't suddenly change the ballistic behaviors of the bullet. However, the point of impact will be different if there is offset between optic and the barrel.

Point of impact offset combined with bullet drop will make canted zeroing a lot harder.

It's highly recommended to find a good mount that aligns the center of red dot sight to the bore, 

It's best to align the center of red dot sight to the bore, then all you have to account for is the vertical holdover. You will zero it just like normal as long as it's centered.

In this example, the whole rifle is canted, and the POI definitely shifts at 36 yards, but all shots still land within a 3 MOA circle.

See more canted shooting error here

Offset Red Dot On The Side Of A Scope

For users who have offset red dots mounted on the side of their scope, such as the LaRue Tactical LT742 RMR adapter, it's important to take into account the slight offset when tilting the rifle.

While these types of mounts may have a visually appealing design, they can indeed introduce offset issues that need to be considered.

The offset can affect your point of impact, especially when transitioning between the offset red dot and the primary scope. Therefore, it's crucial to practice and become familiar with the offset to ensure accurate and effective shooting in different scenarios.

Please check out better offset red dot mounts here

FAQ

Where To Mount 45 Degree Sights

The two most popular places are:

• The top rail near your magnified scope - As close to the shooter for a bigger field of view and sight radius
• Handguard - Place it further out on the handguard for faster aiming
  
  

How Does Low Profile Offset Rail Mounts Affect Zeroing Distance

For all angled offset red dot, you need an angled mount that the center of it aligns with the bore. Below are some of the most popular offset rail mounts on the market.

Best For High Height Over Bore Rifles

Rifles with a high height over bore, such as the SCAR, X95, and MCX, can pose challenges when it comes to pairing them with angled offset mounts. This is primarily because most mounts do not align perfectly with the bore axis.

To minimize the point of impact (POI) offset, a process of trial and error becomes necessary. One must experiment with various mount angles and positions on the firearm to achieve the closest alignment with the barrel's axis.

Based on personal experience, I've found that using 30-degree or 45-degree mounts on the handguard rail section tends to yield the best results. This approach helps minimize the need to account for bullet drop and offset, ultimately enhancing accuracy and precision in shooting scenarios with rifles featuring a high height over bore.