In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of gunsmithing and learn how to choose the perfect rifle scope for your needs. Our expert guide is none other than the renowned Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA. As an experienced gunsmith and enthusiast, Larry has the knowledge and expertise to help you make an informed decision when it comes to selecting a rifle scope. So, let’s get started and discover what makes a great rifle scope and how to choose the right one for you!
Gunsmithing – How to Choose A Rifle Scope
Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA
If there’s one thing that gun enthusiasts can agree on, it’s that choosing the right accessories is vital when it comes to gun ownership. One such accessory is a rifle scope, an essential tool for hunters and marksmen alike. Scopes are incredibly useful, allowing for improved accuracy and precision, making it easier to hit targets from a long range. In this article, we will be discussing the components of a scope, types of reticles, and how to choose the right scope for your gun.
Introduction
The purpose of this article is to provide insights on the vital aspects you should consider when choosing a rifle scope. We’ll cover everything from the components of the scope to the type of reticles and their uses, as well as other important features to keep in mind while buying a scope. Let’s get started!
The Components of a Scope
Scopes vary in complexity, ranging from simple fixed magnification lenses to complex telescopic sights. To make an informed decision, it is essential to understand the components of a scope. These include the tube, objective bell, eyepiece, power ring, windage adjustment dial, and elevation adjustment dial.
The tube is the body of the scope and holds all the components, protecting them from environmental factors. The objective bell is located at the end of the tube farthest from the shooter, and it magnifies the image. The eyepiece is the lens closest to the shooter’s eye, which allows adjustment for the shooter’s eyesight. The power ring adjusts the magnification level, while the windage and elevation adjustment dials allow for precision adjustments to aim accurately.
Reticles
Reticles, commonly known as crosshairs, aid in making accurate shots. They come in various styles, with the most common being duplex and dot reticles. Duplex reticles are thin crosshairs intersecting thicker bars toward the outer regions of the scope. Dot reticles, as the name suggests, use a small dot as the aiming point.
First focal plane reticles are easy to use for range estimation. This style of reticle changes the size and shape of the crosshairs as the magnification level changes. On the other hand, second focal plane reticles maintain a constant size regardless of the magnification level.
Choosing a Scope
With various scopes available in the market, choosing the right one for your gun can be overwhelming. Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the right scope:
Magnification
The magnification level of a scope determines how close the shooter can see the target.
- For close-range shooting like hunting, a low magnification scope between 1-4x is ideal.
- For mid-range shooting situations, a variable scope of 3-9x magnification is sufficient.
- For long-range tactical shooting, a scope with a magnification level between 8-25x is optimal.
Objective Lens Diameter
A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to transmit through the scope, making the image brighter and clearer.
- For short-range shooting, 20-30mm is sufficient.
- For mid-range, 30-40mm is ideal.
- For long-range, a scope with an objective lens diameter of over 50mm is recommended.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance from your eye to the ocular lens. A suitable eye relief ensures comfortable viewing and prevents injuries.
- A minimum of three inches is recommended for rifles with significant recoil.
- For handguns, a 12-inch eye relief is ideal.
Field of View
Field of view is the width of the viewing area in feet. It is the area visible through the scope from left to right.
- For hunting, a scope with a field of view between 30-40 feet is ideal.
- For long-range shooting, scopes with a field of view of over 10 feet are preferred.
Parallax Error
Parallax occurs when the reticle moves off the target when the shooter moves his head. Look for scopes that adjust for parallax error.
Adjustments and Turrets
Most scopes have elevation and windage adjustment turrets. Look for scopes with Micro-adjustment turrets with precise adjustments that allow for fine-tuning the aiming point.
MOA and Mil Adjustments
MOA and Mil adjustments are units of measures used in most hunting and long-range tactical scopes. MOA is Minutes of Angle, and Mil is Milliradians.
- MOA is more common in hunting scopes and allows for more minor adjustments.
- Mil units are used in tactical scopes, and they offer more precision adjustments over long distances.
Conclusion Paragraph
Choosing a rifle scope is an important decision for both hunting and tactical shooting. By considering these factors, you can choose a scope that will meet your requirements and improve your accuracy in the field. Remember, investing in the right accessories for your gun will make all the difference. Happy Shooting!
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is eye relief in rifle scopes?
Eye relief is the distance from your eye to the ocular lens of the scope. A suitable eye relief ensures comfortable viewing and prevents injuries. -
How do I choose the right magnification level for my scope?
The magnification level of the scope determines how close you can see the target. Choose a scope that fits your shooting distance, with low magnification for close-range shooting and high magnifications for long-range shooting. -
What is MOA and Mil Adjustments in scopes?
MOA is Minutes of Angle, and Mil is Milliradians units of measure used in most hunting and long-range tactical scopes. MOA offers minor adjustments, while Mil units offer more precision adjustments over long distances. -
What is field of view in scopes?
The field of view is the width of the viewing area in feet. It is the area visible through the scope from left to right. -
Can you explain parallax error in scopes?
Parallax occurs when the reticle moves off the target when the shooter moves his head. Look for scopes that adjust for parallax error, avoiding aiming errors.
