How To Pick A Scope?

How to Pick a Scope

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-time shooter, choosing the right scope can be a daunting task. There are so many factors to consider, from magnification power to objective lens size to reticle type. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing a scope, from the basics of rifle scopes to specific tips for finding the perfect scope for your needs.

So whether you’re looking for a scope for hunting, target shooting, or long-range shooting, read on for all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Criteria	What to look for	Explanation
Magnification	The magnification of a scope is the number of times it makes an object appear closer than it actually is.	Magnification is usually expressed as a ratio, such as 7x or 10x. The higher the magnification, the closer the object will appear, but the narrower the field of view will be.
Objective lens diameter	The objective lens diameter is the size of the lens at the front of the scope that gathers light.	The larger the objective lens diameter, the more light the scope can gather, which will result in a brighter image.
Eyepiece	The eyepiece is the part of the scope that you look through.	The eyepiece determines the field of view and the eye relief of the scope.
Field of view	The field of view is the area that you can see through the scope at any given time.	A wider field of view is better for hunting and general use, while a narrower field of view is better for target shooting.
Eye relief	Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye when you have a clear view of the image.	A longer eye relief is better for people who wear glasses or have long eye-sight.
Reticle	The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming marks in the center of the scope.	The type of reticle you choose will depend on what you will be using the scope for.
Price	The price of a scope can vary greatly, from a few dollars to several thousand dollars.	The price of a scope will depend on the features and quality of the scope.

A rifle scope is an optical device that is mounted on a rifle and used to aim and shoot the rifle. Scopes come in a variety of styles and features, and the right scope for you will depend on your specific needs.

In this guide, we will discuss the different factors you need to consider when choosing a scope, and we will recommend some of the best scopes on the market.

What to Consider When Choosing a Scope

There are a number of factors you need to consider when choosing a scope, including:

• Magnification
• Objective lens diameter
• Eyepiece type
• Field of view
• Eye relief
• Reticle
• Waterproofing
• Shockproof construction
• Weight
• Price

Magnification

The magnification of a scope is the amount by which it makes objects appear closer. Scopes typically have magnifications ranging from 2x to 10x, and the higher the magnification, the closer objects will appear.

For most hunting applications, a magnification of 4x to 6x is sufficient. However, if you are shooting at long distances, you may want a scope with a higher magnification.

Objective lens diameter

The objective lens diameter is the size of the lens at the front of the scope. The larger the objective lens, the more light the scope can gather, which will result in a brighter image.

For scopes that will be used in low-light conditions, a larger objective lens is desirable. However, larger objective lenses are also heavier and more expensive.

Eyepiece type

There are two main types of eyepieces: first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP).

FFP eyepieces have the reticle located in the first focal plane, which means that the reticle’s size remains constant regardless of the magnification. This can be helpful for making accurate range estimations.

SFP eyepieces have the reticle located in the second focal plane, which means that the reticle’s size changes as the magnification changes. This can be helpful for making precise shots at close range.

Field of view

The field of view is the amount of area that you can see through the scope at a given magnification. A wider field of view is helpful for tracking moving targets.

Eye relief

Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye when you have the scope properly adjusted. If the eye relief is too short, you will experience eye fatigue and headaches.

Reticle

The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming device in the center of the scope. There are many different types of reticles available, and the best reticle for you will depend on your specific needs.

Waterproofing

If you plan on using your scope in wet conditions, it is important to choose a scope that is waterproof. Waterproof scopes are typically sealed with O-rings to prevent water from entering the scope.

Shockproof construction

If you plan on using your scope on a hunting rifle, it is important to choose a scope that is shockproof. Shockproof scopes are designed to withstand the recoil of a rifle without damaging the scope.

Weight

The weight of a scope is an important consideration, especially if you will be carrying your rifle for long periods of time. Scopes typically weigh anywhere from a few ounces to a few pounds.

Price

The price of a scope can vary significantly, depending on the features and quality. Scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Different Types of Scopes

There are many different types of scopes available, each with its own unique features and applications.

• Rifle scopes are the most common type of scope and are designed for use on rifles. Rifle scopes typically have high magnifications and are used for hunting, target shooting, and other precision shooting applications.
• Hunting scopes are a type of rifle scope that is specifically designed for hunting. Hunting scopes typically have lower magnifications than other types of rifle scopes and are often equipped with special features such as illuminated reticles and windage and elevation turrets.
• Birdwatching scopes are designed for use on binoculars and are used for observing birds and other wildlife. Birdwatching scopes typically have low magnifications and wide fields of view.
• Telescopes are optical devices that are used for viewing distant objects. Telescopes typically have very high magnifications and are used for astronomy, birdwatching, and other observational purposes.
• Binoculars are optical devices that are used for viewing objects at a distance. Binoculars typically have lower magnifications than telescopes and are used for hunting, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.

Choos

How to Pick a Scope?

When it comes to choosing a scope, there are a few things you need to consider. First, you need to decide what you’re going to use the scope for. Are you going to be hunting, shooting targets, or just plinking in the backyard? Once you know what you’ll be using the scope for, you can start to narrow down your choices.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a scope:

• Magnification: The magnification of a scope is measured in power, and it refers to the amount of zoom the scope provides. For hunting, a scope with a magnification of 4x to 10x is usually sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a scope with a higher magnification, such as 12x or 16x.
• Objective lens diameter: The objective lens diameter is the size of the lens at the front of the scope. The larger the objective lens, the more light the scope will gather, which will result in a brighter image. For hunting, a scope with an objective lens diameter of 30mm to 50mm is usually sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a scope with a larger objective lens, such as 50mm or 60mm.
• Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye when you’re looking through the scope. If the eye relief is too short, you’ll have to press your eye against the eyepiece to see through the scope, which can be uncomfortable and can lead to eye fatigue. For hunting, a scope with an eye relief of 3 inches or more is usually sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a scope with a shorter eye relief, such as 2 inches or less.
• Focal plane: The focal plane of a scope refers to the plane in which the reticle is located. There are two types of focal planes: first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP). In an FFP scope, the reticle grows in size as you increase the magnification. In an SFP scope, the reticle stays the same size regardless of the magnification. FFP scopes are generally more expensive than SFP scopes, but they offer some advantages, such as the ability to hold a precise aiming point when you change magnification.
• Reticle type: The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming device in a scope. There are many different types of reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For hunting, a simple duplex reticle is usually sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a reticle with more features, such as a mil-dot reticle or a Christmas tree reticle.
• Coatings: The lenses in a scope are coated with a variety of materials to reduce glare and improve light transmission. The most common types of coatings are anti-reflective coatings (AR coatings) and multi-layer coatings (MLCs). AR coatings help to reduce glare from the sun and other bright lights, while MLCs help to improve light transmission and provide a sharper image.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices. There are many great scopes on the market, so you’re sure to find one that meets your needs and budget.

How to Use a Scope

Once you’ve chosen a scope, it’s important to know how to use it properly. Here are a few tips:

• Mount the scope securely. The first step is to mount the scope securely to your rifle. Make sure that the scope is level and that the rings are tight.
• Adjust the focus. The next step is to adjust the focus of the scope. This will allow you to see a clear image of your target.
• Zero the scope. Once the focus is adjusted, you need to zero the scope. This means that you need to align the crosshairs with the point of impact of your rifle.
• Use the reticle. The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming device in a scope. It can be used to help you aim your rifle and make accurate shots.

Here are some additional tips for using a scope:

• Practice makes perfect. The best way to learn how to use a scope is to practice. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with using a scope and the better your shots will be.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re not sure how to use a scope, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a knowledgeable friend or family member. They can help you get started and make sure that you’re using the scope correctly.

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How do I choose the right magnification for my scope?

The magnification of a scope is determined by the focal length of the objective lens and the diameter of the eyepiece. The focal length of the objective lens is measured in millimeters, and the diameter of the eyepiece is measured in millimeters. The magnification of a scope is calculated by dividing the focal length of the objective lens by the diameter of the eyepiece. For example, a scope with a 400mm focal length and a 25mm eyepiece will have a magnification of 400 / 25 = 16x.

The best magnification for a scope depends on the intended use of the scope. For general-purpose hunting and shooting, a magnification of 8x to 12x is a good choice. For long-range shooting, a magnification of 16x or higher may be necessary. For bird watching, a magnification of 20x or higher may be desirable.

What is the difference between a first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) scope?

First focal plane (FFP) scopes and second focal plane (SFP) scopes are two different types of rifle scopes that have different advantages and disadvantages. FFP scopes have the reticle located in the first focal plane, while SFP scopes have the reticle located in the second focal plane.

The main difference between FFP and SFP scopes is how the reticle changes in size as the magnification is changed. In an FFP scope, the reticle remains the same size regardless of the magnification. This means that the reticle subtensions (the size of the reticle in relation to the target) remain the same at all magnifications. This can be helpful for making accurate range estimations and holdovers.

In an SFP scope, the reticle changes in size as the magnification is changed. This means that the reticle subtensions change at different magnifications. This can make it difficult to make accurate range estimations and holdovers.

Ultimately, the best choice between an FFP and SFP scope depends on the intended use of the scope. For long-range shooting, an FFP scope is often the better choice. For general-purpose hunting and shooting, an SFP scope may be sufficient.

What are the different types of scopes?

There are three main types of rifle scopes: variable-power scopes, fixed-power scopes, and red dot scopes.

• Variable-power scopes have a magnification range that can be adjusted by the user. This makes them a good choice for a variety of shooting applications.
• Fixed-power scopes have a fixed magnification that cannot be adjusted. This makes them a good choice for shooters who know exactly what magnification they need.
• Red dot scopes do not have a magnification range. Instead, they have a red dot or other aiming point that is projected onto the target. This makes them a good choice for close-range shooting.

What are the factors to consider when choosing a scope?

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a scope, including:

• Magnification: The magnification of a scope is determined by the focal length of the objective lens and the diameter of the eyepiece. The magnification of a scope is calculated by dividing the focal length of the objective lens by the diameter of the eyepiece. For example, a scope with a 400mm focal length and a 25mm eyepiece will have a magnification of 400 / 25 = 16x.
• Objective lens diameter: The objective lens diameter is the diameter of the lens at the front of the scope. The objective lens diameter is important because it determines the amount of light that can enter the scope. A larger objective lens diameter will allow more light to enter the scope, which can improve image quality in low-light conditions.
• Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and the shooter’s eye. Eye relief is important because it ensures that the shooter can see the entire field of view without having to strain their eyes.
• Field of view: The field of view is the area that can be seen through the scope. A wider field of view is better for hunting and other applications where the shooter needs to be able to see a large area.
• Reticle: The reticle is the aiming point in the scope. There are a variety of different reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
• Price: The price of a scope can vary significantly. It is important to set a budget before starting your search.

How to Mount a Scope on a Rifle

Mounting

choosing the right scope for your rifle is an important decision that can affect your accuracy and enjoyment of the shooting sports. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can narrow down your choices and find a scope that meets your needs and budget.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember:

• The magnification range of a scope should be appropriate for the type of shooting you will be doing.
• The objective lens diameter will affect the amount of light that enters the scope and the field of view.
• The reticle is an important part of the scope and should be chosen based on your shooting needs.
• The eye relief of a scope is the distance between your eye and the ocular lens when you are looking through the scope.
• The price of a scope can vary significantly, but it is important to remember that you get what you pay for.

By taking the time to choose the right scope, you can improve your accuracy and enjoy the shooting sports more.