Sighting in new scope in State Forest?

[BlakeLok]

Getting a new rifle soon, will need to sight in new scope. Thinking of doing it in one of the many state forests in NY that allow target shooting. Anyone have any experience or advice about this? Good enough to look at the DEC website for forests that allow target shooting or should I contact local ranger first?

 

[Tisto]

I think most of us would suggest that you go to a real range with an appropriate backstop, especially since it's hunting season right now.

 

[Mosinitis]

Go to the rifle range. You can use a laser bore sighter to get everything pre-adjusted or bore sight your rifle looking through the bore if your rifle allows it. This will make it easier to get your zeros at the rifle range and you will save some ammo.

 

[BlakeLok]

Go to the rifle range. You can use a laser bore sighter to get everything pre-adjusted or bore sight your rifle looking through the bore if your rifle allows it. This will make it easier to get your zeros at the rifle range and you will save some ammo.

Good point.

 

[BlakeLok]

What about target shooting in State Forests in general? Good idea? Bad idea?

 

[RedBreast21]

What about target shooting in State Forests in general? Good idea? Bad idea?

I would think that for those places that allow it, you should make sure you aren't shooting over, at or across and trail system. Also I would suggest shoot into a hillside that doesn't have too much rocks that would present ricochet issues. Then clean it all up when you leave. But for sighting in, go to a range.

 

[Bustedknees]

What about target shooting in State Forests in general? Good idea? Bad idea?

Its "our" land,,, "public land". Fuck asking permission!
With that said I wouldn't be doing it on opening weekend of deer season. Make sure of your bullet path and a safe berm to fire into and enjoy our public land.

 

[BlakeLok]

Who said anything about asking for permission? Some state forests allow target shooting, some do not. Im looking for a few hours of recreational target practice, not a few hours in a jail cell.

 

[TopShot]

Go to Blue Mountain in Cortlandt.
Depending on what type of rifle you have, rimfire or centerfire, you can go to either the small bore or large bore ranges.
They have benches, shooting rests and range safety officers that will be happy to assist you in the process.
It is an inexpensive place to shoot and most people are very friendly.
C.B.