ORIGINAL: Steve F.in MD
I hunt in central Maryland in mixed terrain. I can find myself in dense hardwoods or on the edge of a crop field. I am shooting a .50 cal Black Diamond using Powerbelt 245 gr. bullets and 80 grs of 777. My gun club has target berms at 50-100-200-300 yards. What distance do you suggest that I sight in for (zero) in order to have the most opportunities in the field?
In the past I have sighted in at 50 yards but I do not like having to estimate hold over at longer ranges. When I sight in at 100 yds I worry about shooting over a deer that appears at 30 yards. Your advice-experience is welcome and appreciated.
SteveF
Your own information kind of answers the question for you. Since you do not like to estimate the hold over or under, then sight in for 100 yards. You did not mention if this is with a scope or open sights. At 100 yards sighted in, you should be able to shoot out to 150 yards with practice and confidence. After that your load is starting to loose a lot of energy and speed and critical shot placement is the most important, especially at the long distances where the shocking power of the bullet is diminished.