Which step is performed first in the zeroing procedure for the M4?

• A. Set up 3 targets side by side.
• B. Load a 30 round magazine
• C. Fire a five round grouping at target 1 (make no adjustments)
• D. Fire a five round grouping at target 3 (this is the final grouping)

Answer: (A)

Establishing the target layout is the essential first move in zeroing because you need a reference framework before you fire or adjust. With three targets side by side, you have clear points to compare where your shots land and to see how a baseline shot behaves without any sight changes. This setup gives you a measurable starting point for understanding how far off the sights are and how elevations or windage will move the group across the targets, which is why it must come before loading the magazine or firing. Once the targets are in place, you can proceed to shoot the initial five-round group at the first target to establish the baseline, then use adjustments and the remaining targets to confirm the zero.