Ensure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction
Verify the scope is securely mounted and all screws are properly tightened
Set the scope to a comfortable magnification if it is variable
Bore sight the firearm if possible
Place a target at a short distance, such as 25 yards
Use a stable shooting rest or sandbags
Fire a three-shot group at the target
Determine the center of the group
Adjust the scope turrets in the direction needed to move the point of impact to the point of aim
Fire another three-shot group
Repeat adjustments until the shots are centered at the chosen distance
Move the target to the desired zero distance, such as 100 yards
Fire another group and make fine adjustments as needed
Confirm the zero with additional groups
Record the final scope settings and zero distance