Point of Impact

The point of impact is the place on a target where a projectile hits. This is distinct from “point of aim” because in many cases an optic or sight could be mounted an inch or more above the line of the bore, resulting in a projectile impacting a target in a spot above or below the shooter’s intended point of aim. With longer-range shots, the difference between point of impact and point of aim can be attributed to environmental conditions, ammunition ballistics, and equipment setup, i.e., sights or optics calibrated (zeroed) incorrectly.