What is Minute of Angle, and How Does it Work?
Basics of Scope Adjustments
Understanding the basics of scope adjustment is vital to using a 20 MOA rail effectively. Scopes use adjustment knobs, typically found on the top (elevation) and the side (windage) of the scope. Turning these knobs changes the point of impact of the bullet on the target.
Understanding the 20 MOA Rail
So, how does the 20 MOA rail fit into this equation? A 20 MOA rail, in its simplest form, is a mounting rail for the scope that incorporates a built-in upward slope, often referred to as cant.
The Purpose
The primary reason behind using a 20 MOA rail is to provide increased elevation adjustment, thereby allowing the shooter to reach extreme distances without running out of elevation travel in the scope. This is especially crucial when engaging targets at distances that exceed the scope’s initial elevation range when mounted on a standard flat rail.
How the Tilt Works
When the scope is mounted on a 20 MOA rail, the scope’s optical centerline is angled slightly upward relative to the bore of the rifle. The tilt effectively ‘pre-loads’ the scope’s internal elevation adjustments.
The Benefits of Using a 20 MOA Rail
The advantages of incorporating a 20 MOA rail in your setup are numerous, particularly for those engaged in long-range shooting.
Increased Range
One of the most significant benefits is the potential for increasing the maximum effective range of your rifle and scope. A 20 MOA rail provides additional elevation adjustment, allowing for a significantly greater ability to compensate for bullet drop at longer distances. The added adjustment translates into the ability to aim higher to account for the longer drop of the bullet due to gravity.
Maximizing Scope Adjustments
A 20 MOA rail also helps in maximizing the usefulness of a scope’s internal adjustments. In many circumstances, a shooter will need a significant amount of elevation adjustment at a specific distance. The rail allows the user to utilize more of the scope’s elevation adjustment range to make those long-range shots, without running out of clicks.
Improved Accuracy at Long Distances
Moreover, the application of a 20 MOA rail can contribute to improved accuracy at extreme distances. This increased elevation adjustment allows for more precise placement of the reticle on the target, making the adjustments more predictable and repeatable.
Compatibility and Versatility
Further, a 20 MOA rail is compatible with a wide array of rifles and scope models. They’re often readily available for different rifle platforms, including bolt-action rifles, AR-15 style rifles, and many others. They typically accommodate various scope mounting systems, making them a versatile option.
Choosing and Installing a 20 MOA Rail
Selecting and installing a 20 MOA rail involves several considerations.
Rail Types
Different rail types, the standard design based on the Picatinny rail system, are often used to attach scopes to rifles. The Picatinny rail is a universal mounting system, offering compatibility with most modern scopes and accessories. Ensure that the 20 MOA rail you choose is designed to fit your specific rifle.
Matching to Your Rifle
Matching the rail to your rifle is crucial. You must check compatibility of the rail with the rifle’s receiver. The rail’s length and hole spacing should match the mounting points on your rifle to ensure proper fit.
Installation Guide (Brief)
Installation should be carried out carefully. The mounting rail will typically come with mounting screws. After fitting the rail, the screws must be torqued to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications to maintain a secure and stable connection. The correct torque is crucial for accuracy and safety. Be sure to consult the instructions provided with the rail and rifle to avoid any damage.
Using a Torx Wrench
Scenarios Where a 20 MOA Rail is Most Beneficial
In certain scenarios, the benefits of a 20 MOA rail become particularly apparent.
Long-Range Shooting
Long-range shooting is the clearest example. For those shooting at targets beyond 300 yards, or even further, the 20 MOA rail can be a crucial tool. It gives the shooter extra elevation adjustment needed to accurately compensate for the increased bullet drop at those distances. The further the target, the more the bullet will drop and the more adjustment is required.
Using High-Power Optics
Using high-magnification optics is another area where a 20 MOA rail shines. High-magnification scopes often require a larger amount of elevation adjustment to compensate for bullet drop. The rail effectively enables the scope’s ability to make these adjustments.
Specific Rifle Platforms
Moreover, specific rifle platforms often benefit from a 20 MOA rail. Bolt-action rifles designed for long-range precision, and AR-15 style rifles that are being configured for extended distance shooting, are good examples.
Alternatives to a 20 MOA Rail
While the 20 MOA rail is a popular and effective solution, it’s not the only option.
Other Rail MOA Options
In addition to the 20 MOA rail, many other MOA options are available. Other options include rails with a greater cant, and rails with no cant at all. Scopes with a greater range of internal elevation adjustment can be utilized, which eliminates the need for a canted rail.
Conclusion
The 20 MOA rail is a valuable tool for the precision shooter. It’s designed to maximize the elevation adjustment range available to compensate for the effects of gravity on a bullet’s trajectory over long distances.
Importance for Long-Range Shooters
By understanding the function of MOA, the scope’s adjustment, and how the 20 MOA rail works, shooters can significantly enhance their chances of hitting targets at extended ranges. The extra elevation range allows for increased accuracy and potentially pushes the effective range of the rifle and scope combination.
For long-range shooters, incorporating a 20 MOA rail is often a wise decision.
Before purchasing a 20 MOA rail, take the time to research your specific rifle, scope, and the typical distances you shoot. Proper setup will bring you closer to the target, and closer to success.
