I like to frequent the shooting range a lot, but there were times when I was just off my game and couldn’t get any shots to land where I wanted.
Does this sound like you? Don’t worry! It doesn’t mean you’re not getting out of your range as a shooter.
It’s a sign that you need a shooting companion to step up your game. There’s no better partner for shooters (like you) than a rifle scope.
If you’re into long-range shooting or are just looking to get into a new hobby, a new rifle scope is one thing you SHOULDN’T forget.
Keep reading to know why.
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What Is a Rifle Scope?
Simply put, a rifle scope is a magnifier placed on a firearm that helps you see and shoot targets more clearly and accurately.
Think of it like a telescope for your gun!
A scope usually consists of a series of glass and lenses used to increase the size of a target from varying distances.
As you look through the scope, you should see a reticle (or crosshairs) which will help you see WHERE the bullet is supposed to land.
There are many considerations when choosing a rifle scope, which I will break down later.
Why Do You Need a Rifle Scope?
Your eyes will sometimes fail you when aiming for long-range targets, even if you have normal vision like me.
You’re better off with scopes along with your rifles.
I speak from experience when I say lining up iron sights is challenging and involves a lot of guesswork and rough estimates.
Well, you’ll shoot easier with these bad boys. You only need to sight in your scope, line up the scope reticle with the target, and you’re all good!
Besides accuracy, a new rifle scope can also ensure your safety and precision in a shooting. They help me see what’s around my target day AND night.
Even in low-light conditions, you can ace the big game at TWO prime times.
A rifle scope collects light available in your surroundings so you can shoot precisely in dim places.
The best part about scopes is their versatility; there are even handgun, shotgun, and muzzleloader scopes.
All you need is to get the ideal scope for YOUR gun.
So, how can you tell you get the best rifle scope? Well, there are many things you need to consider.
The Rise of New Scopes
When it comes to scopes, an old hat is NOT BETTER better than a modern scope.
There are plenty of reasons why modern scopes work better and come on top of the big game.
First, they are CHEAPER; today’s medium-priced scopes could be even better than expensive compact scopes back in the 20th century.
They are also more reliable, thanks to the modern manufacturing techniques that made new features possible.
They come with better lens coatings. With computer optical design programs, I can say goodbye to the terrible optics of old scopes.
Yet, modern scopes are in no way perfect by all means. That’s the case, especially for the cheaper models.
Regardless of which scope you use, you will need to learn how to use it correctly!
Understanding the Scope Numbers
At first, I was super confused by all the numbers in the product name, and I’m sure you were too.
What do these numbers mean? Well, some of these numbers refer to the rifle scope model.
You need to pay attention to the other set of numbers that appear like this: 3-9×40. Check out the video below for more information.
As you can see, there are two sets of numbers that correspond to power-power and lens diameter, respectively.
Scope Magnification Explained
The first set of numbers tells you the magnification you can achieve with your scope.
In simple words, rifle scope magnification tells you how much closer your target is when you look through the scope than your naked eye alone.
Considering our example, 3-9x means a power range of three to nine.
It means that you can see your target 3-9 times closer than it would appear with your naked eye.
So, the HIGHER the scope magnification, the FURTHER DISTANCE you can see.
Yet, it’s not good to settle with a high-powered scope all the time.
Having higher rifle scope magnification could also mean increased mirage, bulk, heft, visible shake, and price.
As the saying goes, less is more.
There are plenty of factors to consider when eyeing the ideal scope. The first thing is to determine the type of scope you will need for your shooting needs.
Fixed Power Scope
When you look for fixed power scopes, you’ll notice a single power number only.
It means that you can have a SINGLE magnification, so it’s crucial to pick the best-fixed power scope to suit your needs.
Despite its limited range, you can enjoy some advantages of using fixed power scopes, like affordability and better quality.
While you can only shoot from a certain range, you can aim FASTER with a fixed scope.
Another thing about this rifle scope type is its simplicity and few moving parts.
But, how do you choose the best magnification for your scope?
Variable Power Scope
You’ll notice that only a few experienced shooters use variable power scopes.
If you want to experiment on your hunting session, a variable scope is for you. But, using this kind takes a lot of trial and error.
The idea of having multiple magnifications might sound like a great opportunity.
You can adjust your lens depending on your location, as well as the proximity of your target.
In other words, you have the power to hunt ANYWHERE!
I like using variable power scopes as I don’t have to worry about adjusting to my target as it moves closer to me.
Yet, all these benefits come with some costs, literally. Expect higher prices for variable scopes compared to fixed ones.
Also, you’ll be dealing with many glasses as you look through the lens.
In my experience, the images I saw were not as sharp as I would see in a fixed scope.
As you have multiple magnifications, it could be hard to control your variable scope, too.
It could be dangerous if you could not adjust your scope properly when your target is close.
You see that both kinds of scopes have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to you which kind you’ll choose to suit your needs and demands.