Zeiss Z-600 with WSM...help with ballistics please

[AShorvath]

I just purchased a new rifle and was originally planning on selling my z600 off my 30.06 and getting a z800 for the new 300wsm.

I was playing around with the load that I plan on shooting if all goes well at the range and according to the Zeiss ballistics calculator I will be able to zero the rifle at 50 yrds (or .64" above at 100yrds) and then the reticle will be somewhat accurate for long distance shots.

I have attached a picture of the Zeiss calculator as well as the bullet ballistics from Barnes.

My question is am I missing something obvious here? It seems too good to be true (the fact I don't need to trade reticles).

Also based on the information how high above zero should my 200 yrd shot be?

thanks,
Andrew

 

[todbartell]

try it at the different ranges and get back to us

 

[ofelas]

AShorvath - assuming you're using a 3.5-10 with RZ-600 - I would zero at 200 yards, and live with the resulting slightly lower magnification.

If you're hunting, the 200 yard zero would put you in the vital zone from 0 to 300 yards without any difficulty.

However, if you're punching paper, pop it up to max magnification, zero at 100 yards, reset the turrets to zero & then use them to dial in for varying ranges..

 

[Mudduck]

Now this is an interesting thread. I dont have any answers but Im hoping to learn from those who do - Maybe some Jedi Master will share some wisdom from the force.

 

[Kelly Timoffee]

Yes, like previously stated, zero for 200 use the regular horizontal hair.

You will be approx 1.1" high(going by your tables) @100, no need for compensating when shooting from 0-200. Then after that the reticle takes over.You are just using a 50 yard sight in not a 50 yard zero with the chart, they are telling you where to adjust your scope to.This can be 100 , 200 whatever.The optimum power setting tells which magnification will be closest to your bullet trajectory vs reticle drop points.

This reticle is designed for hits not benchrest accuracy.

With the second focal plane of this scope the change in magnification allows for changes in points of impact and the calculator does the math for you.It isn't exact it is an approximation but it will allow you to hit game provided you know the distance to the target.