Dialing vs. holdover – it's a question that's been around in the long-range shooting world for ages. Which method is better for adjusting for elevation and wind?
Well, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both techniques have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on the situation.
Understanding Dialing and Holdover
Let's break down what dialing and holdover mean:
- Dialing: Adjusting the elevation turret to temporarily zero the reticle for your current firing solution.
- Holdover: Aiming higher or to the side of your target to compensate for bullet drop and wind.
Now, let's explore when to use each technique.
When to Hold
- Quick Shots: For fast opportunities at close to medium range, holding is quick and may be accurate enough.
- Busy Reticle: If the holding reference point won't get you lost in the reticle, holding is the way to go.
When to Dial
- Standard Reticle: Dialing is efficient when using a standard reticle with one vertical and one horizontal line.
- Long Shots: For very long shots, dialing provides greater precision, especially for extreme long-range and high-angle shooting.
Variables That Affect Your Aim
Two main factors affect your bullet's path:
- Gravity: It pulls the bullet down as soon as it leaves the barrel.
- Wind: It can blow the bullet off its original path.
Shooters aim higher to counter gravity and shoot "into the wind" to offset wind effects.
Holdover Technique: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Speed: Holding is faster than adjusting turrets.
- Flexibility: Reticles with holdover reference lines and dots, along with ballistic apps, make holding easier.
- Wind Adaptation: The variable nature of wind makes holding a good technique.
Cons
- Guesswork: Simple reticles require guesswork, and not knowing exactly how much you're holding can lead to missed shots.
- Obstruction: Thick reticle lines can obstruct the target at long ranges.
- Math Challenges: Mixing MOA and Mil units can complicate adjustments.
Dialing Technique: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Natural Aiming: The aiming point stays near the center of the reticle.
- Precision: Accurate adjustments to the exact number of clicks required.
- Fast Adjustments: Exposed tactical turrets allow for quick changes.
- Easy Windage: Move side to side along the horizontal reticle for windage.
Cons
- Wind Challenges: Can't dial for accurate wind-hold as wind changes.
- Tool Requirement: Some scopes require tools for adjustment.
- Confusing Turrets: Markings or multiple revolutions can be confusing.