Whether you are a new shooter or an experienced marksman with a new rifle, getting your firearm properly zeroed is essential. But finding a suitable location in Hampshire and the surrounding areas can be tricky — especially if you’re not yet a club member or you’re looking for somewhere open to the public.

Here’s your guide to some of the best places to zero your rifle around Gosport, Portsmouth, Fareham, Southampton, and wider Hampshire, plus tips to make the process smooth and safe.

What Does “Zeroing” a Rifle Mean?

Zeroing is the process of aligning your rifle’s sights or optic with the point of impact of the bullet — typically at a specific distance like 100 metres or yards. It’s the foundation for accurate shooting, whether you’re targeting paper, pests, or deer.

Local Places to Zero Your Rifle

1. Fareham Rifle & Pistol Club

• Location: Fareham, Hampshire

• Access: Members only, but they host open days

• Facilities: Indoor and outdoor ranges (up to 100 yards)

• Notes: Great for .22LR and centre-fire rifles if you’re a member

2. Southampton Rifle Club

• Location: Near Chilworth

• Access: Membership required

• Facilities: 25m and 100m ranges

• Notes: Friendly club, good for both zeroing and regular practice

3. The Tunnel Target Sports Centre (Charmouth)

• Location: Dorset (a bit of a drive, but worth it)

• Access: Open to non-members with booking

• Facilities: 100m indoor tunnel range, full bore rifles allowed

• Notes: Ideal for precision zeroing in controlled conditions

4. Bisley Ranges (NRA at Bisley)

• Location: Woking, Surrey

• Access: NRA membership or visitor days

• Facilities: World-class ranges from 100 to 1,200 yards

• Notes: Best choice for long-range zeroing and load development

5. Local Permission on Private Land

• If you’re lucky enough to have permission on a private estate or farm, and you’re insured (e.g. BASC membership), you may zero safely on your own — but always check local laws and ensure a proper backstop.

Tips for Zeroing Your Rifle in the UK

• Know your ammo: Always zero with the ammo you’ll be using for hunting or competition — different loads impact differently.

• Use a stable rest: A bipod and rear bag help remove human error.

• Start at 25m: Then work out to 100m. You’ll waste less time and ammo.

• Use a bore sight (optional): Speeds up initial alignment.

• Log your results: Record temperature, conditions, and groupings.

• Stay legal: You must be on approved land or a certified range — no exceptions.

Legal Reminder

All zeroing must be done on certified land or club ranges. Firing a rifle in the wrong location — even into a field with no livestock — is a criminal offence under UK firearms law. Always double-check your permissions.

Need Help Choosing Optics or Setting Up Your Rig?

Visit us (appointment only) or get in touch with any setup questions.

sales@g-ten.co.uk