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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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 those users who have offset red dot on the side of the scope such as the LaRue Tactical LT742 RMR adapter. You will account for the slight offset when you tilt the rifle.

This type of mount looks cool, but it creates lot of offset problems.

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

High height over bore rifles such as the SCAR, X95, and MCX are difficult to pair angled offset mount with because most mounts don't completely align with the bore.

In order to minimize POI offset, you have to test various mount angles at various spots on the gun to see if it aligned as close to the axis of the barrel as possible.

I had found using 30-degree mounts or 45-degree mounts on the handguard rail section the best. This is the best way to minimize taking account for the bullet drop and offset.