Point of Impact
Understanding Point of Impact (POI)
Point of Impact is a critical concept for every rifle and shotgun shooter. It defines the exact relationship between where they aim their firearm and where the projectile actually hits the target downrange. Mastering POI ensures accuracy, whether you are hunting, trap shooting, or plinking on the range.
Rifle POI
When sighting in a rifle, you are establishing Point of Impact. This process aligns the aiming point — whether using open sights or optics — with the actual bullet strike location.
- Distance: The yardage of your target directly changes your bullet trajectory and final POI.
- Optics: Always consult your specific optic manufacturer's instructions to properly sight-in your scoped rifle or shotgun.
- Factory Defaults: Browning ships rifles, pistols, and shotguns with open sights set to the middle position. While factory-tested for accuracy, remember that different ammunition loads will alter your POI.
Shotgun POI
Shotgun Point of Impact focuses on the center of your shot pattern relative to your Point of Aim (POA). Your specific shotgun model, bead alignment, and shooting discipline determine your correct aiming reference.
Single Bead System
- Style: Single sight directly at the end of the rib. You would sight from the top of the front bead.
- Best For: This standard point of aim applies across the board for trap, sporting clays, and hunting.
Mid Bead and Front Sight Configurations
- Technique: Stack the front sight directly on top of the mid bead to form a visual "Figure 8." Aim the top of the eight at your target.
- Best For: Target, trap, and waterfowl hunting shotguns frequently utilize this dual-bead alignment.
How Browning Engineers Calibrate POI Percentage
Gun design engineers calibrate shotguns prior to manufacturing based on the firearm's intended end-use. Experienced shooters often demand specific POI percentages for different shooting environments.
- Trap Shotguns: Trap shotguns typically use a 70/30 POI, resulting in 70% of the pellets striking above the aiming point and 30% below it.
- Sporting and Hunting Shotguns: Standard sporting and hunting guns typically use a 50/50 POI, meaning 50% of the pellets strike above the aiming point and 50% below it.
- Multi-Discipline Shotguns: Shotguns created to blur the line between sporting and hunting guns may have a 60/40 POI, with 60% of the pellets striking above the aiming point and 40% below it.
