Zeroed @ 200 yds where do I aim for shorter distances?

[newgunner]

I have to ask these questions as I am still waiting for my P.A.L to arrive before I can bring my gun home.I have a Zeiss Conquest 3-9 x 40 RapidZ600 and I am to zero it at 200 yards. My Q. is if and when I go hunting and my reticle is zeroed at 200 in the crosshairs and my target is say 80 yards out, do I have to compensate and try to figure out the increments and aim slightly above the crosshairs or just center my crosshairs and pull the trigger?gun)

 

[WildRose]

I have to ask these questions as I am still waiting for my P.A.L to arrive before I can bring my gun home.I have a Zeiss Conquest 3-9 x 40 RapidZ600 and I am to zero it at 200 yards. My Q. is if and when I go hunting and my reticle is zeroed at 200 in the crosshairs and my target is say 80 yards out, do I have to compensate and try to figure out the increments and aim slightly above the crosshairs or just center my crosshairs and pull the trigger?gun)

Yes you do have to compensate by aiming a little bit low. How low will depend on what round/velocity etc.

Use any ballistics program using your load/speed data and it will give you the +/- hold for hundred yard increments.

With most rounds though you won't find more than a 3" variation from your 200yds zero for shorter ranges.

 

[MT4XFore]

Unless your intended target is pretty small, it is unlikely you will have to hold very much low. If it's coyote sized or larger, you should be able to hold center mass and be good to go. Unless like Wildrose was referring to, you are shooting a sssslllooowww round!

 

[Bravo 4]

Canada, aye?

Crossbow... Yes
High velocity cartridge... No

 

[newgunner]

Thanks and it's Eh not aye.

 

[Bravo 4]

Sorry, I Googled it and that's what it told me to put.
My Canadian is a little rusty.