How Many Clicks is 1 MOA?
Understanding the relationship between clicks and MOA (Minute of Angle) is crucial for precision shooting and optics. While the question "How many clicks is 1 MOA?" doesn't have a single definitive answer, it depends entirely on the specific scope or optic you're using. Let's break down why and how to determine the clicks-per-MOA for your equipment.
Understanding MOA and Clicks
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Minute of Angle (MOA): One MOA is a unit of angular measurement, approximately equal to 1 inch at 100 yards. This means a 1 MOA group will produce shots clustered within a 1-inch circle at 100 yards. At 200 yards, it's approximately 2 inches, and so on.
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Clicks: Clicks refer to the adjustments you make on your riflescope or optic's turrets. These adjustments move the point of impact of your shots. Each click alters the point of impact by a specific amount.
Why the Number of Clicks Varies
The number of clicks required to adjust your point of impact by 1 MOA is determined by the turret's design and calibration. Manufacturers often use different click values, resulting in variations like:
- 1/4 MOA per click: This is a very common setting, meaning you need 4 clicks to adjust your point of impact by 1 MOA.
- 1/2 MOA per click: In this case, you'll need 2 clicks per MOA.
- 1 MOA per click: Less common, but some scopes utilize 1-click-per-MOA adjustments.
- Other Increments: Some high-end scopes might offer even finer adjustments, such as 1/8 MOA per click.
How to Find Your Scope's Click Value
The most reliable way to determine your scope's clicks-per-MOA is to:
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Consult your scope's manual: The instruction manual will explicitly state the click value. This should be clearly indicated in the specifications.
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Check the scope's markings: Some scopes have markings on the turrets themselves indicating clicks per MOA (e.g., 1/4 MOA or 1/2 MOA).
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Test it: If you can't find the information, you can conduct a test at a known range. By making adjustments and measuring the impact changes at a distance like 100 yards, you can calculate the clicks-per-MOA. This method requires precision measuring tools and a stable shooting platform.
Example:
If your scope has 1/4 MOA clicks, you'll need 4 clicks to adjust your aim by 1 MOA. To move your point of impact 3 MOA to the right, you would adjust the windage turret by 12 clicks (3 MOA * 4 clicks/MOA).
Conclusion:
There is no universal answer to how many clicks equal 1 MOA. Always consult your scope's manual or markings to determine the correct number of clicks per MOA for your specific optic. Remember accuracy and precision are key, so understanding this relationship is essential for responsible and effective shooting.
