Zero Stop is a riflescope feature that allows you to quickly and precisely return the elevation turret back to the “zero” position — the distance at which your scope is originally zeroed (e.g., 50 or 100 m). Inside the turret is a mechanical stop that prevents you from dialing below your set zero when turning the turret down.
How does Zero Stop make aiming faster and easier?
Fast return to zero: After shooting at longer distances, you simply dial the turret back “to the stop” — and you are instantly back at your base zero with no need to count clicks.
No dialing past zero: The mechanical stop ensures you cannot go below your set zero, preventing accidental misalignment of the scope.
Confidence under stress: When shooting under pressure, in low light or while wearing gloves, you don’t need to search for markers or numbers — simply dial down to the stop and you know you're back at your original zero.
Zeroing and Zero Stop in airsoft — is it useful?
Even though airsoft shooting takes place at shorter distances and has a very different ballistic curve compared to real firearms, the Zero Stop function can still be helpful:
MilSim and longer distances: For higher-powered DMR and sniper replicas using 0.40+ g BBs, ballistics matter — when switching distances, it’s useful to return the optic to your base zero instantly.
Frequent distance changes: If you often “click up” and adjust elevation based on distance estimates, Zero Stop lets you return the scope safely and quickly to its default setting.
How do you set up Zero Stop?
General procedure (varies by scope model):
1) Zero the rifle at your chosen distance (e.g., 50 m for airsoft).
2) Remove the numbered ring / upper turret cap according to the manual.
3) Adjust the internal stop (ring or insert) so that it stops exactly at this point when dialing down.
4) Reinstall the numbered ring at “0”.
From this moment, whenever you dial the elevation turret “to the stop”, you are back at your zero point.
Vector Optics and Zero Stop — why you want it on your airsoft rifle
Vector Optics scopes are popular among both airsoft players and real-steel shooters because they offer premium-grade features for a reasonable price. Many models (especially long-range DMR optics) offer:
Reliable Zero Stop: Clear mechanical stop — dial down and you know you're back at zero.
Precise clicks and smooth turret movement: Makes it easy to keep track of how many clicks you’ve gone up or down.
Practical reticles and illumination: Reticles designed to work well even in airsoft (holdovers, clarity, readable mil-/MOA etc.).