Using a rifle scope makes it easier for someone learning how to shoot, as it is easier to line up the crosshairs when aiming. The rifle scope also magnifies the target so that it increases visibility and your chances of hitting it with utmost accuracy. It helps shooters with less than perfect eyes to perform better with fewer frustrations and good results. All sport shooting enthusiasts need to have a quality scope if not a collection in their cache.
The item is helpful, no doubt, however choosing the correct rifle scope is a daunting task. To make the right choice, you have to consider the following;
What purpose is the scope for?
For hunting? Bushnell Hunting Rifle Scopes are an excellent choice. They would give you a wide view of the game you are hunting and its surrounding. It is hard to miss your target if you can watch it effortlessly without moving and alerting it.
When competing, choose the Leopold competition scopes. They are made of lightweight materials, and so they are easier to carry around. Competitions always involve running around with a huge back pack or side held pouch. You don’t want a heavy scope on your rifle to slow you down and cost you shooting points.
For beginners or social rifle enthusiasts, it is a good idea to read a beginners guide to rifle scopes in order to find out what scope you need before selecting one. The guide would detail the weights and sizes and which ranges are appropriate for what age and/or height.
The Scope Body
The scope body is mostly made of aircraft grade aluminum. A scope with a single-piece design is the best. It has been observed that they offer better optics and greater accuracy when shooting.
A matte colored scope is far better than a shiny scope when using your gun for hunting purposes. This is because shiny scopes give off light reflection from the sun or other sources which may alert the animals you are seeking after.
Lenses
The lenses on the scopes are important because they offer a high-level visibility at both low and high magnification. Some are a bit pricey, though. To get value for your money, choose futuristic rifle scopes such as the Swarovski scope that has lenses that offer the best optical clarity. For more affordable and good quality scopes, you should go with the Nightforce and the Zeiss brands of scopes.
Magnification
A variable-power scope would be the most cost effective and offer the most flexibility regarding magnification. For distances of 500 yards or less, a 10X magnification will be sufficient. Distances exceeding 500 yards will require a magnification greater than 10X and the use of a tripod would be advised. A 1X- 6X variable magnification scope is the most popular for use in sports shooting.
Reticles
Most user-friendly options are scopes with MIL or MOA measurements. Flexible Duplex reticles are highly recommended. They naturally lead your eye to the center of the aiming point and therefore make it easier to focus on your target.
Scope Tube Size
Larger scopes offer greater magnifications. A magnification of 12X would be achieved by a scope measuring about 40mm to 50mm in diameter. Magnifications of less than 10X are achieved by a scope diameter of about 30mm.
Larger scope sizes allow in more light for better optical clarity. They are therefore efficient and easy to use.
How much to spend
Your budget is probably the most important factor in determining which scope you will purchase. When gauging a rifle scope expenditure, it is better to splurge on the scope because a poor quality scope would be useless, affecting your aim and shot. Just like with many products, expense in this domain governs quality.
All in all, you should remember that there are many scopes to choose from with a wide range of manufacturers and brands. You do not need to break the bank to find the right one; you just need a keen eye.
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Image Credits:
Lenses Via Freepik
Featured photo credit: Pixabay via pixabay.com
