A rifle sighted in at this distance typically impacts approximately an inch high at 100 yards. This specific sight setting provides a practical point of aim for targets within a common hunting range. It leverages a trajectory that minimizes holdover or hold-under adjustments for shots on game or targets between the muzzle and roughly 200 yards. Consider the ballistic arc of a projectile: after leaving the barrel, it rises before gravity pulls it down to intersect the line of sight again at the near zero, continues upward to a peak, and then descends to cross the sight line a second time at the far zero. This approach establishes a useful balance for accuracy across those intermediate distances.
This sighting method has a historical basis in practical field shooting, where quick target acquisition and minimal compensation for bullet drop are paramount. Hunters and competitive shooters alike benefit from this approach, especially in dynamic situations. Its utility stems from the relatively flat trajectory within a practical engagement envelope, offering a margin of error for precise shot placement. This allows for rapid target engagement without complex ballistic calculations or adjustments on the fly.