What Are the Numbers on a Scope? (A Guide for Beginners)
What Are the Numbers on a Scope?
Have you ever looked through a telescope or rifle scope and wondered what all the numbers mean? If so, you’re not alone. Many people are curious about the markings on scopes, but they don’t know where to start.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the numbers on a scope and explain what they mean. We’ll also discuss how to use these numbers to make accurate shots.
So, if you’re ready to learn more about scopes, keep reading!
The Basics of Scopes
A scope is an optical device that is used to magnify objects that are far away. Scopes are typically used for hunting, target shooting, and other outdoor activities.
Most scopes have a few basic components, including:
- An objective lens: This is the lens at the front of the scope that gathers light.
- An eyepiece: This is the lens at the back of the scope that you look through.
- A reticle: This is the crosshairs or other aiming device that is located in the center of the scope.
The numbers on a scope are used to adjust the magnification and focus of the scope. These numbers are typically located on the side of the scope, and they are usually expressed in terms of millimeters (mm).
The Magnification Ring
The magnification ring is located on the side of the scope, and it is used to adjust the magnification. The magnification is typically expressed as a number, such as 4x or 10x. The higher the number, the greater the magnification.
To change the magnification, simply turn the magnification ring clockwise or counterclockwise. As you turn the ring, the magnification will change, and you will be able to see objects at different distances more clearly.
The Focus Ring
The focus ring is also located on the side of the scope, and it is used to adjust the focus. The focus is typically expressed as a distance, such as 100 yards or 200 yards. The closer the distance, the greater the focus.
To change the focus, simply turn the focus ring clockwise or counterclockwise. As you turn the ring, the focus will change, and you will be able to see objects at different distances more clearly.
The Reticle
The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming device that is located in the center of the scope. The reticle is used to help you aim your rifle or other firearm.
The reticle can be adjusted in a number of ways, including:
- Changing the brightness
- Changing the color
- Changing the size
To adjust the reticle, simply use the corresponding controls on the scope.
These are the basics of scopes and the numbers that are found on them. By understanding these basics, you will be able to use a scope more effectively and make more accurate shots.
| Number | Label | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | MRAD | Milliradians |
| 2 | MOA | Minutes of Angle |
| 3 | Yards | Distance |
| 4 | Clicks | Unit of adjustment |
What Do the Numbers on a Scope Mean?
The numbers on a scope are used to indicate the magnification, objective lens, eyepiece lens, and focal length.
- Magnification is the ability of a scope to make an object appear larger than it actually is. The magnification of a scope is usually expressed as a ratio, such as 10x or 20x. The higher the magnification, the larger the object will appear.
- Objective lens is the lens at the front of the scope that gathers light and focuses it on the image. The objective lens is usually the largest lens on the scope.
- Eyepiece lens is the lens at the back of the scope that the user looks through to see the image. The eyepiece lens is usually the smallest lens on the scope.
- Focal length is the distance between the objective lens and the focal point of the scope. The focal length is usually measured in millimeters.
The following table shows how the numbers on a scope are used to indicate the magnification, objective lens, eyepiece lens, and focal length:
| Number | Magnification | Objective Lens | Eyepiece Lens | Focal Length |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| 10x | 10 | 40mm | 10mm | 400mm |
| 20x | 20 | 60mm | 15mm | 600mm |
| 40x | 40 | 80mm | 20mm | 800mm |
How to Use the Numbers on a Scope
The numbers on a scope can be used to adjust the magnification, focus the image, and change the focal length.
- Adjusting the magnification
To adjust the magnification, turn the magnification ring on the scope. The magnification ring is usually located on the side of the scope. Turning the magnification ring clockwise will increase the magnification, and turning it counterclockwise will decrease the magnification.
- Focusing the image
To focus the image, turn the focus knob on the scope. The focus knob is usually located on the top of the scope. Turning the focus knob clockwise will bring the image into focus, and turning it counterclockwise will blur the image.
- Changing the focal length
The focal length of a scope can be changed by changing the objective lens. To change the objective lens, unscrew the objective lens from the scope and replace it with a lens with a different focal length.
The following table shows how the numbers on a scope can be used to adjust the magnification, focus the image, and change the focal length:
| Number | Magnification | Objective Lens | Eyepiece Lens | Focal Length |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| 10x | 10 | 40mm | 10mm | 400mm |
| 20x | 20 | 60mm | 15mm | 600mm |
| 40x | 40 | 80mm | 20mm | 800mm |
The numbers on a scope can be used to indicate the magnification, objective lens, eyepiece lens, and focal length. The numbers can also be used to adjust the magnification, focus the image, and change the focal length. By understanding the numbers on a scope, you can use it to its full potential.
What Are The Numbers On A Scope?
When you look at a scope, you will see a number of numbers and letters printed on the side. These numbers tell you important information about the scope, such as its magnification power, objective lens diameter, and field of view.
Magnification Power
The magnification power of a scope is the number that tells you how much bigger the image will appear through the scope than it would to the naked eye. Magnification is usually expressed as a ratio, such as 4x or 10x.
For example, a scope with a magnification of 4x will make an object appear four times bigger than it would to the naked eye. A scope with a magnification of 10x will make an object appear ten times bigger than it would to the naked eye.
The magnification power of a scope is important because it determines how much detail you can see. A higher magnification power will allow you to see more detail, but it will also make the image appear smaller.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens diameter of a scope is the diameter of the lens at the front of the scope. The objective lens diameter is measured in millimeters.
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 will result in a brighter image.
The objective lens diameter is also important because it affects the field of view of the scope. A larger objective lens diameter will result in a wider field of view.
Field of View
The field of view of a scope is the amount of area that you can see through the scope at one time. Field of view is usually expressed in degrees.
A wider field of view is better for hunting and other activities where you need to be able to see a large area quickly. A narrower field of view is better for target shooting and other activities where you need to be able to see a small area in detail.
Other Numbers and Letters
In addition to the magnification power, objective lens diameter, and field of view, you may also see other numbers and letters printed on the side of a scope. These numbers and letters may include:
- The reticle type
- The reticle subtensions
- The eye relief
- The windage and elevation adjustments
The reticle type is the type of crosshairs or other aiming device that is located in the center of the scope. The reticle subtensions are the measurements of the crosshairs or other aiming device. The eye relief is the distance from the eyepiece to the rear of the scope at which you can see a clear image. The windage and elevation adjustments are the controls that allow you to adjust the scope’s point of impact.
Common Mistakes When Using a Scope
There are a few common mistakes that people make when using a scope. These mistakes can make it difficult to see clearly through the scope and to make accurate shots.
Using the wrong magnification
One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong magnification. If you are using too much magnification, the image will be too small and you will not be able to see much detail. If you are using too little magnification, the image will be too big and you will not be able to see the target clearly.
The best way to choose the right magnification is to experiment until you find a setting that allows you to see the target clearly and still make out the details.
Not focusing the image properly
Another common mistake is not focusing the image properly. If the image is not in focus, it will be blurry and you will not be able to see clearly.
To focus the image, turn the focus knob on the side of the scope until the image is sharp. You may need to adjust the focus knob a few times until you get the image sharp.
Choosing the wrong focal length
The focal length of a scope is the distance between the objective lens and the eyepiece. The focal length of a scope determines the magnification power and the field of view.
If you are not sure what focal length to choose, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable salesperson. They can help you choose a scope that is right for your needs.
Tips for Using a Scope Effectively
There are a few tips that can help you use a scope effectively. These tips can help you see more clearly through the scope and make accurate shots.
Choose the right scope
What Are The Numbers On A Scope?
The numbers on a scope are called “reticles”. They are used to measure the distance to an object, the speed of an object, or the angle of an object.
What Do The Numbers On A Rifle Scope Mean?
The numbers on a rifle scope typically represent the distance to an object in yards or meters. The numbers are usually arranged in a vertical line, with the smallest number at the bottom and the largest number at the top.
How Do You Use The Numbers On A Scope?
To use the numbers on a scope, you first need to find the object you are trying to measure the distance to. Once you have found the object, you need to center it in the crosshairs of the scope. Then, you need to look at the numbers on the reticle and find the number that is closest to the top of the crosshairs. This number will tell you the distance to the object in yards or meters.
What Are The Different Types of Reticles?
There are many different types of reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of reticles include:
- Crosshair reticles: These are the most basic type of reticle and consist of a simple crosshair. Crosshair reticles are easy to use and are a good choice for beginners.
- Mil-dot reticles: Mil-dot reticles are more complex than crosshair reticles and consist of a series of dots that are spaced evenly apart. Mil-dot reticles are more accurate than crosshair reticles and are a good choice for experienced shooters.
- BDC reticles: BDC reticles are designed to compensate for the effects of bullet drop. BDC reticles are a good choice for shooters who need to make long-range shots.
How Do You Choose The Right Reticle For Your Scope?
The right reticle for you will depend on your shooting needs and experience level. If you are a beginner, a simple crosshair reticle is a good option. If you are an experienced shooter, you may want to consider a more complex reticle, such as a mil-dot or BDC reticle.
Where Can I Learn More About Reticles?
There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you learn more about reticles. Some of the best resources include:
- [The Rifle Scope Handbook](https://www.amazon.com/Rifle-Scope-Handbook-Fourth-Edition/dp/0867231120)
- [The Complete Guide to Rifle Scopes](https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Guide-Rifle-Scopes-Second/dp/1620870492)
- [Rifle Scopes: A Beginner’s Guide](https://www.amazon.com/Rifle-Scopes-Beginners-Guide-Second/dp/1620870224)
the numbers on a scope represent the distance between the object being viewed and the crosshairs. The objective lens is the lens closest to the object being viewed, and the eyepiece is the lens closest to the observer. The focal length of the objective lens determines the magnification of the scope. The higher the focal length, the greater the magnification. The crosshairs are located in the focal plane of the eyepiece. The reticle is the pattern of lines and dots that is visible in the crosshairs. The reticle can be used to make measurements or to estimate the range to a target. It is important to understand the numbers on a scope in order to use it effectively. By understanding the relationship between the objective lens focal length, the eyepiece magnification, and the reticle, you can make the most of your scope and achieve the best possible results.