How To, Riflescopes, Video

How to Adjust the Locking Side Parallax

Posted by Jon Allen on

Whether you’re zeroing in for your first hunt of the season or fine-tuning your precision setup, understanding how to properly adjust your rifle scope’s locking side parallax can make the difference between a clean shot and a frustrating miss. When you’re dealing with variable magnification scopes like the TORIC 3-15×50, parallax adjustment isn’t just a nice feature—it’s essential for accuracy at extended ranges.

Let’s break down exactly what locking side parallax adjustment is, why it matters, and how to use it effectively in the field.

What You Need to Get Started

Before diving into the adjustment process, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Your TORIC or TEKOA rifle scope with locking side parallax
  • A stable shooting position or rifle rest
  • A clear target at your intended shooting distance
  • Good lighting conditions for optimal visibility
  • A few minutes of patience to dial it in correctly

The beauty of TRACT’s locking side parallax system is its simplicity—no special tools required, just your hands and a clear view of your target.

Step-by-Step Parallax Adjustment Process

Here’s how to properly adjust your locking side parallax for optimal accuracy:

Step 1: Unlock the Adjustment Knob

The parallax knob is locked when pushed all the way in toward the scope body. To unlock it, simply pull the knob straight out. You’ll feel it pop out and become free to rotate. That’s your signal that it’s ready for adjustment.

Step 2: Set Your Magnification

Before making parallax adjustments, set your scope to the magnification you’ll be using for your shot. Higher magnifications will make parallax errors more apparent, so if you’re shooting at maximum power, adjust at maximum power.

Step 3: Look Through the Scope and Adjust

With the knob unlocked, look through your scope at your target. Slowly rotate the parallax knob while observing the target image. You’re looking for the point where the target appears sharpest and clearest. The reticle and target should appear to be on the same focal plane.

PRO TIP: Move your head slightly behind the scope while looking through it. If the reticle appears to move relative to the target when you shift your eye position, you need more parallax adjustment. When properly set, the reticle should remain stationary on the target regardless of minor head movements.

PERFORMANCE-GRADE OPTICS
PERFORMANCE-GRADE OPTICS

Step 4: Lock It Back In

Once you’ve achieved that crisp, clear image with no apparent reticle movement, push the knob back in to lock the setting. This prevents accidental adjustment during your shooting session and maintains your precise setting.

Understanding Parallax and Why It Matters

Parallax error occurs when the target image and reticle aren’t focused on the same plane within your scope. This creates an apparent movement of the reticle relative to the target when your eye position changes slightly. At longer ranges or higher magnifications, even small parallax errors can translate to significant point-of-impact shifts.

Most fixed parallax scopes are set for 100 yards, which works fine for many hunting situations. But when you’re reaching out to 300 yards and beyond, or when you’re using higher magnifications for precision work, adjustable parallax becomes crucial for maintaining accuracy.

The TORIC line features SCHOTT HT glass and ED lens technology, which not only provides exceptional clarity but also makes parallax adjustment more precise. When you’re investing in premium optics, you want every advantage for long-range accuracy.

Pro Tips for Optimal Performance

PRO TIP: Don’t just set it and forget it. Different shooting distances require different parallax settings. If you’re moving from 200-yard shots to 400-yard shots, take a moment to readjust your parallax for each distance.

Here are additional tips for getting the most from your locking side parallax:

  • Practice the adjustment process: Familiarize yourself with the feel of the knob and the locking mechanism before you’re in a hunting situation.
  • Use consistent eye relief: Maintain the same distance from the scope each time you shoot. This helps ensure your parallax adjustment remains effective.
  • Check in different lighting: What looks perfectly adjusted in bright sunlight might need tweaking in low-light conditions.
  • Mark common settings: If you regularly shoot at specific distances, consider marking those parallax settings with a small piece of tape for quick reference.

Remember that environmental factors can affect your perception of sharpness. Wind, heat shimmer, and lighting conditions all play a role in how clear your target appears through the scope.

Real-World Applications

This adjustment system shines in several scenarios:

Long-range hunting: When you’re taking shots beyond 300 yards, proper parallax adjustment can mean the difference between a clean harvest and a wounded animal.

Precision shooting: Whether you’re competing or just working on accuracy, eliminating parallax error helps you achieve consistent, repeatable results.

Variable distance shooting: If your hunt involves potential shots from 100 to 500 yards, the ability to quickly adjust parallax gives you versatility in the field.

Final Thought

Mastering your locking side parallax adjustment isn’t complicated, but it’s one of those fundamental skills that separates good shooters from great ones. Take the time to practice this adjustment at the range, and you’ll have the confidence to make precise shots when it matters most. The TORIC and TEKOA scopes make this process straightforward with their intuitive locking mechanism—use it to your advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a locking side parallax adjustment?

A locking side parallax adjustment is a knob on the side of your rifle scope that allows you to focus the target image on the same plane as your reticle. The locking feature prevents accidental adjustment during shooting by pushing the knob in to lock and pulling it out to unlock for adjustment.

Do I need to adjust parallax for every shot?

No, you only need to adjust parallax when changing shooting distances significantly. If you’re shooting at the same range, your parallax setting should remain accurate. However, when moving from 200 yards to 400 yards, for example, you should readjust for optimal accuracy.

How do I know if my parallax is properly adjusted?

Look through your scope and slightly move your head position behind the eyepiece. If the reticle appears to move relative to the target, you need to adjust parallax. When properly set, the reticle should remain stationary on the target regardless of minor head movements.

What magnification should I use when adjusting parallax?

Adjust parallax at the magnification you plan to shoot with. Higher magnifications make parallax errors more apparent, so if you’re shooting at maximum power, adjust at maximum power for the most precise setting.

Why does my scope have a locking parallax feature?

The locking feature prevents accidental adjustment of your parallax setting during shooting. Once you’ve dialed in the perfect setting for your distance, pushing the knob in locks it in place, ensuring your precision adjustment won’t be disturbed by bumps or handling.

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