Zero profiles

What it means

Zeroing means adjusting the scope so the bullet hits where the reticle points at a set distance. A digital scope stores that adjustment in memory. Zero profiles are separate saved slots, each holding its own zero, and on many scopes its own reticle style and ballistic data. Scopes on this site usually offer 5, with some offering up to 10.

What it changes in the field

If you move one thermal scope between a .223 for coyotes and a .308 for hogs, you can store each rifle’s zero and switch profiles instead of re-zeroing. The same works for two loads in one rifle, or for a zero at 100 yards and another at 200.

A profile stores where the reticle sits. It cannot make the mount return to the same place. If the scope comes off the rifle, the mount must clamp back into the same rail slot with the same tension, or the zero shifts no matter what profile you choose. Many complaints about a scope not holding zero end at the mount, not the scope.

What to look for

• Enough profiles for your rifles and loads, plus a spare. Most hunters need two or three.
• A clear name or number on screen for the active profile. Shooting with the wrong one is an easy mistake in the dark.
• A quick-detach mount known to return to zero if you plan to move the scope. See mount.
• After any move, confirm with a shot before hunting.

How we use it on this site

We show the maker’s profile count for riflescopes and score more as better, though past three or four the difference is rarely meaningful.