Turret Adjustments and Minute of Angle (MOA). So be careful. Neither. 1. What about if it’s a variable scope? Fixed means just what it says, the magnification is fixed. Here’s the ugly truth: It depends. For regularly sized targets, lower magnification is not an issue. This is by FAR the most important part. You want as LITTLE of parallax as possible for maximum accuracy. Let’s start off by defining eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the lens you look through (ocular lens). Please check your email for confirmation message, You said this guide was not helpful. If your weapon is higher recoil, you’ll need more eye relief. Keep in mind, a 20-power scope was rare 30 years ago, and, I know from conversations with some of those shooters, most of those scopes were European models costing nearly $500 back then. Policy. If we look at something on the horizon a long way off, we see lots of things around that object i.e. It may come packaged in fancy names, however ALL rifle coats fall under one of these criteria: Most scopes today are fully multi-coated. Only look at parallax adjustment as a tiebreaker between scopes. Some scopes have a 3x magnification range such as a 3-9. Rifle Scope Magnification Types Explained Fixed vs Variable. Some have 4 or more as in a 4-12. However, if it says 2-7×32… then the first range of numbers ( 2-7 ) is the magnification. With that, you now know EXACTLY what makes a good scope. Such a pair of binoculars are light and perfect for long viewing sessions. In other words: You won’t be able to shoot JACK–So it matters. It’s easy, fast, and it plain up WORKS. He was a US Navy nuclear gunners mate, a private investigator, and is an NRA certified instructor in ten categories, as well as an Illinois CCW instructor. (If you do, you’ve got bigger problems than scopes). It does not take into account the type of target or the glass quality. Here’s how to save your eye (and comfort) from pain with proper eye relief. Why? You’re now fully armed with EVERYTHING you need to know about choosing a rifle scope. Over 700 hours of military entertainment and video content, 12 free e-books, breaking news from the front lines and exclusive interviews with the people in charge. You can attach most monoculars to a tripod to resolve this issue (if you care). Speaking of tiebreakers, there’s one core feature that breaks all ties…. There’s really no ‘optimal’ amount to spend on a scope. Richard Douglas is a scopes expert with over 10 years of hands-on experience and has been featured on Burris Optics, War History Online and more. Magnification 3x, 4x – this magnification is best to choose if you visit stadiums, theaters, sports events. You can be spending anywhere from $50 up to $1,000+. Provided decent optical clarity and lighting etc etc Simple enough, right? You would describe this scope as a "three to nine by forty." Do you want to look like him? The best reticle is the one YOU prefer. So, let’s first start off by defining magnification. Aperture gain will give you an idea of the faintest stars visible with a telescope. Scope Magnification Level. Spotting scope magnifications are usually listed in ranges. This is usually mentioned in the reviews. Not good. In contrast, the minimum magnification of any scope is equivalent to its exit pupil diameter. Toll-Free: +1-800-504-5897 In layman’s terms: The more objective lens you have, the clearer and brighter your scope will look. If you don’t mind the smaller reticle, or, if the smaller reticle is an issue, and you don’t mind shooting a deer on a higher magnification, then an FFP scope for deer might be a good option. In fact: This will be the LAST guide you’ll ever have to read to find the right scope…for YOU. As for example, a specification 9×54 explains that the scope has the magnification of 9x and 54mm is the diameter of its objective lens. If left unchecked, it can lead to bluriness, fuzziness, and missed shots. Support authentic military journalism and a 100% veteran editorial staff. It’s HIGHLY dependent on your rifle, caliber, and usage. So if you’re having problems finding a good rifle scope, then feel free to stop by for some tips. That depends on your use. Two important numbers are given with scopes. Notes: 1: Atmospheric seeing conditions (the sky) often limits the maximum usable magnification to 250-350x. Here’s the straight up answer: go for second focal plane. Contrary to popular belief (especially by new astronomers), high magnification is not always better and there are several reasons for this. Simple. © 2020 The SOFREP Media Group. Magnification, or sometimes called power, is the amount of magnification the scope has. So, for instance, the product’s features may list it as having a magnification of 20 to 60x. Or bump up to 4x on the bottom to get 20x or 24x on the top. When comparing these models the base models were used whenever possible. The telescope’s focal length (for example, 1200mm) 2. But you now know what makes the very best scope. Sweepstakes: Enter to win $4,000 in prizes →. In practice, two or three times that magnification is more comfortable. Why High Magnification Is Not Always Better. Scopes usually correct parallax in one of three ways: With that said, which option is best? Now go out there and buy yourself a great scope! But which to choose? However, the numbers are sometimes written like 20 to 60×80. Couple that with the countless landmines of confusing technical jargon, specs, acronyms — and you might be in the maze for LIFE. Magnification. Some have 4 or more as in a 4-12. Parallax is bad. We want to ensure that making a return is as easy and hassle-free as possible! If your scope has 9x magnification, your scope allows you to see nine times farther than the naked eye. Feature image: U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Magnification is how much closer you can see the target than a naked eye. All Rights Reserved. Identify the numbers describing the scope. Pro Tip: Go for a fixed power scope. And there you go! Don’t listen to the advertisers. So, keep that in mind when you’re choosing your scope. It's much easier to learn to shoot with a scope than iron sights, and since most rifle scopes also magnify, your target appears closer, and therefore easier to see, enabling you to place a more precise shot on your target. If our rifles and scopes are sighted in properly, a BDC scope’s other aiming points are supposed to correspond to the bullet’s impact point at pre-determined distances. Most often, these aiming points are set at 100 yards per aiming point, although rimfire BDC scopes can be found at 50 yards per aiming point. The reason? That said, should you ever go with first focal plane? In the model name "4 X 32," the number four refers to the magnification power of the scope. Simple enough. This will either make shooting easier or harder. If you are shooting 20" steel plates at 1000 yards a cheap fixed 10 power may be adequate. The straight up answer? This is for the long-range shooter. You should also consider your ideal lens size, as a bigger lens will allow you … Those scopes will use thirty millimeter rings. Newtonian telescopes). On the other side of the spectrum, big-game hunters opt for lower magnification scopes, 1x – 3x. Intl. I’ve actually reviewed (and hand-tested) scopes for almost EVERY major rifle and calibers (like the Mini 14). Continue following Steve's gun-laden lifestyle with never-ending firearm excursions and experiments with related products! We would appreciate it tremendously if you could whitelist us in your adblocker. ; Objective lens size: the larger the lens the more light it lets in to provide you a brighter image, however, weight and size will increase with larger objective lenses. This is dependent on the scope (and cheekweld). Or, if you’re a sniper that hunts in fields or deserts (200+ yards), then go for a magnification between 9 – 12x. So, which adjustment system is better: MOA vs MRAD? 2: An exit pupil size (diameter of light beam as it exits eyepiece) over 7.5mm might be too large for telescope designs with central obstructions (i.e. Instead, read what people say about the turrets’ reliability. Rifle Scope Basics for Beginners to Explain what the Model Numbers mean on Variable and fixed power Scopes. The objective lens is the lens at the end of the scope. : +1-847-513-6201 Read Next: AMTAC Shooting: Getting into precision rifle shooting. Policy, 12. It’s cheaper and doesn’t obscure your view while the first focal plane does. Alexis B. Betances. Would you like to, Simmons 22 MAG 3-9X32 Rimfire Rifle Scopes w/ Rings, Mueller Optics 4.5-14x40mm AO APV Riflescope, Trijicon ACOG 4x32 Riflescope w/ Green Horseshoe Target Reference System Reticle, Vortex 6-24x50 Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescope, Vortex 4-16x44 Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescope, Return How Do I Rifle Scope Fov Magnification Chart And Rifle Scope On 22 Ebook download#Can you click Rifle Scope Fov Magnification Chart And Rifle Scope On 22 is best in online store. For example, if the magnification is 2X that means you can see TWO TIMES closer than the naked eye. The objective lens of the spotting scope also affects the quality of the image. It’s more accurate as the reticle size adjusts as you move up in magnification. With a spotting scope, you don’t have to get physically closer to your target just to get a better view. the stars), the focal length, or the distance from the cornea to the retina, of a normal relaxed eye is about 1.7 cm (17 mm). That’s part of the process. Shop now and get Free Value Shipping on most orders over $49 to the Most scopes, especially in America have main tubes that are one inch in diameter. That way you know when you’ve adjusted. He is a stubborn stage 4 cancer survivor and isn't ready to cash in his chips yet. Here’s why: For most general situations, the second focal plane works better. 9AM-5PM CST Sun (Chat & Email Only), Tips for Magnification Options in Riflescopes & Binoculars, Rifle Scope Mounted on an AR 15 Platform Rifle, Choosing a Rifle Scope is as Important as Choosing a Gun, Leupold Rifle Scope are Considered Among Some of the Best in The Industry, Have Fun Hunting With Your New Rifle Scope. If what you’re shooting is a life and death situation (like the Military), go for a Mildot. we have a larger fiel… Monocular Lens Diameter In a 3-9X40 scope, the 3 means three power, or 3X. If you hunt in medium to long range (150+ yards) with medium recoil, go for 30-44mm. It’s the simplest and fastest reticle to use. But for now, let’s answer the lingering question that we left unanswered: This is HIGHLY dependent on your rifle usage. You can easily adjust the variable zoom eyepiece and it can reach its highest magnification capability easily. Easy, right? Someone who hunts tiny varmints at long range certainly needs a higher magnification scope, 12x – 20x. Just choose an adjustment system your hunting buddies use. I've been spoiled by them. He shoots competitively and has hunted from Alaska to Africa. It’s usually the first number (or range of numbers) on a scope. Actually, if these knobs (turrets) don’t work, you WON’T be able to zero your scope properly. The magnification of the scope depends on the focal lengths of these two lenses. Don’t worry about making a decision now — we’ll touch on that in just a bit. If you hypothetically put a gun to my head (please don’t) and said: “Choose a reticle or die!” I’d honestly go for the Duplex. Thus, a 4-inch scope can provide about 200x magnification before images become too blurry and dim, a 6-inch scope is around 300x, etc. For example: if a scope says 3×32… then the first number (‘3’) is the magnification. For example: 3x32 means it has a 32mm objective lens. Thankfully at 10x even some of the cheapest scopes on the market will resolve a 1.5-2 MOA target at 1000 yards. Explaining the numbers on a spotting scope is very simple once you look at an actual example. contiguous 48 states, DC and to all U.S. Military APO/FPO/DPO addresses. The 9 means nine power, or nine times (9X) closer than it appears with your naked eye. Fixed magnification scopes are set at a specific zoom ratio, these used to be the best type of scope for a number of reasons. If you require more than one magnification, then go for the variable. Fax: +1-866-534-3097 There are two types of scopes where magnifications are concerned, the fixed and the variable. No wonder his friends call him the “James Bond of Scopes.” Richard now spends most of his time reviewing scopes and sharing his exclusive findings on his blog, Scopes Field. Instead, test all these reticles and see which one you like best. Once you’ve got your focal plane selected, it’s now time to discuss adjustment systems…. The forty (40) is the objective lens diameter in millimeters. The height of the rings is determined mainly by the objective lens diameter, but also the barrel thickness, action size and type, ocular bell diameter, and bolt lift. Once you’ve done that, you’ll have found reliable windage and elevation turrets. Now, it’s time for the last important feature…. When we view an object that is closer, our eyes act as a zoom and change the focal length to about 22mm. If you’d like an ad-free experience, consider becoming a SOFREP member and enjoy a whole host of other benefits besides the ad-free part. He thoroughly loves life with his beloved wife, Shirley, and together they live with their three wildish dogs Tinker, TranRek, and Crash Almighty. The finder has low magnification and, therefore, a wide field of view. (Also great for low-light hunters.). Easy to follow Guide . The greater the magnification, the more you can zoom in on your target. Here is my article on Choosing Mounts, Rings, and bases. It’s how we can continue producing high quality coverage of warfare and global issues for you to enjoy. The size of the objective lens is usually found at the END of the numbers (or after the x). He was tenured as General Manager of one of the country's largest gun stores and ranges, a buyer in a big box outdoor sporting goods store, and is currently OpticsPlanet's Director of Product Intelligence. Visit his blog page at Riflescopeblog.com. Variable power scopes - Minimum magnification 3x to 6x; maximum magnification 10x to 15x; 4-12x (approximate) scope recommended. In fact: Over 90% of the scopes I’ve reviewed on my site so far are fully multi-coated. You would describe this scope as a "three to nine by forty." And vice versa for lower recoil. Any telescope magnification is possible, but I don't believe extraordinarily high powers reveal more than using 300x to 500x on any telescope. Rifle Scope Magnification Explained The reticle is the crosshair (or the aiming point) you see. That sounds good, but there are drawbacks to power. In other words: you can choose a magnification between 2-7X. Before motorcycles, money, or girls, they have always been part of his life. You will find two numbers mentioned on the scope. That’s why I wrote this article — to help serve as a guide through the scope maze. Variable magnification scopes have a specification that describes the range of magnifications provided by the scope. Finders come equipped with crosshairs. And if it’s not fully multi-coated, don’t sweat it — coats don’t make up for poor glass quality. The larger the magnification range the more you will pay, but it makes for a more versatile scope. They either buy TOO much magnification or too little — ESPECIALLY when buying the best AR-15 rifle scope. This magnification is not so powerful and is the best for viewing objects that are at a close distance to you. With a quality 4x scope at 100 yards it is a little more difficult (you'd think 4x the distance and 4x magnification would even out, but not quite IME). Same thing. That means that they use one inch rings. A common type of finder is a miniature telescope attached near the eyepiece of the main telescope. For example: 2-7x35 means it has a 35mm objective lens. Read Next: Nikon BLACK Force1000 1-4x Optic | Quick Look. 3920 Wood Duck Drive Pelkie, MI Michigan Center, MI 49958 Contact us via admin@rifleopticsworld.com or call: (906) 334-7871 ; Size and weight: heavier scopes can be quite cumbersome if you plan on using your scope for hunting. Yet for most general situations, go for a second focal plane. They are useful when you are using the scope under high magnification. I hope not. However, if you use your rifle primarily for hunting large game in forests or mountains (>200 yards), then go for a magnification between 5 – 8x. Some scopes have thirty millimeter main tubes. Finding the right scope is like running through a maze, you don’t know WHERE you’re going. Sign up and get exclusive access to promotions, sales events, pre-order sales & more! However, fixed power scopes are faster, higher quality, and cost less. Breaking: shots fired at Capital Hill visitors center, Blood Spilled In the ‘Shining City on a Hill’, Great and Terrible Leadership Examples in the Navy SEAL Teams, The Quiet Professional, Navy SEAL Sniper Matt Axelson, Navy SEAL to Plead Guilty to Killing of Green Beret, Your Subscription Supports our Veteran Staff. This is usually the second feature advertised. Email: sales@opticsplanet.com, 9AM-7PM CST Mon-Fri Larger objective lenses mean smaller scope rings, a heavier scope, and it may even give away your position due to the reflection of sunlight off the lens. Thanks for subscribing to our newsletter! So, let’s take this one: Obviously the factory-set will be the easiest, but don’t worry about it too much. But…which should you choose? These days, variable scopes offer wide four-, five-, and now six-times power ranges; that is, the highest magnification is four, five, or six times that of the lowest. Determine the lens size. Some new scopes have a magnification range of 8x or more. It’ll make your short-range encounters faster. This is a variable scope because you can vary the magnification of the scope from three to nine, stopping anywhere in between. Total visual magnification of the microscope is derived by multiplying the magnification values of the objective and the eyepiece. It won’t disappoint. Sure, it takes longer to use, however it helps adjust for bullet drop. You need to know what kind of base you have to find out the exact type of the one inch or thirty millimeter rings you will use for your specific scope. However, something you DO have to sweat is…. The next part is easy: Yes, it’s true… you’re going to have to do a BIT of Googling before finding the right scope for you. 2. This is a good magnification for looking at objects that will be about 1000 yards or more away. If for any A 4-power scope enlarges the image four times. Learn more about our Return This refers to the cone size of light emerging out from the eyepiece lens. If we wanted more magnification, we could use an eyepiece with a shorter focal length, such as 10mm: 1200mm/10mm = 120x magnification We could also use these eyepieces with a … For example: if a scope says 3×32… then the first number (‘3’) is the magnification. But the million dollar question remains…. The first number is the magnification of the scope while; The second number is the total diameter of scope’s objective lens. THE MICROSCOPE DEPOT © 2020 - TERMS & CONDITIONS All Rights Reserved: Toll Free: 1 … This is the most common scope question I get asked: “Should I choose the First Focal Plane or Second Focal Plane?”. Alternatively, if you’re having trouble finding the right scope for your rifle, visit my site: Scopes Field. reason you decide that your purchase just isn't for you, simply return the item within 30 Some scopes have a 3x magnification range such as a 3-9. With your magnification and objective lens in hand, now it’s time to talk…. However, it does come at a costly price. Let us start with naked eye. Comparison Charts Rifle Scope Spy has put together side by side comparisons of rifle scopes in some of the most popular magnification ranges:1-4x24, 2-7x33, 3-9x40, 3-9x50, and 4-12x40. Items you will need. Insanely useful for long distance shots. Alexis B. Betances. Scopes will have either a fixed or a variable magnification. Rest assured — you won’t make that mistake after reading this. Rifle scope or binoculars. Here’s what you’ve got to know about windage and elevation: First, make sure the turrets produce a loud “click” sound when they adjust. Fast forward to today, and a prospective shooter has probably around 50 different rifle scope power configurations to choose from. If you don’t know what your buddies use, just opt-in for MOA. To be completely honest, this part doesn’t matter much, but I’ll cover it anyway. But don’t take my word for it. In short: Aim for at least 3.5 – 4 inches of solid eye relief. Their target is large, and the range of engagement is often very close. Often, these shooters are using a bench, bipod, or some form of rest. With a decent scope and decent conditions 5-6x would be pretty good, and 9x would DEFINITELY be enough magnification to see hits at 100 yards. We understand ads might not be why you’re here, but our ad revenue is one of the ways we keep the lights on and our veteran writing staff paid. This is a variable scope because you can vary the magnification of the scope from three to nine, stopping anywhere in between. Q4 SOFREP Sweepstakes - Over $4,000 in prizes - Click here for more information → days of receipt and we'll cover the cost of return shipping. This means that the image you see through the scope appears three times (3X) closer than it does with your naked eye. In only one condition: If you’re a long-range shooter (10X+ magnification). To get started, we just need two numbers: 1. Do this part wrong and you’ll look like Mad Eye Moody from Harry Potter. Magnification range: this is how powerful it can zoom in and will dictate how far out you can see clearly. There are several main types of bases that are used to connect the rings to your firearm. For example, a scope from our Elite Tactical™ line has the magnification 3.5-21× which means that the scope can magnify anywhere between 3.5× and 21×. When we look at an object which is an infinite distance away (e.g. The reticle on an FFP scope is fairly small on the lower power ranges, and then it gets larger as the scope magnification is adjusted upwards. If you hunt in close range (>100 yards) with low recoil, go for 28mm & under. Q4 SOFREP Sweepstakes - Over $4,000 in prizes - Click here for more information →, Sweepstakes: Enter to win $4,000 in prizes →, Nikon BLACK Force1000 1-4x Optic | Quick Look, AMTAC Shooting: Getting into precision rifle shooting, U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Telescope finders help you find objects in the sky. Some new scopes have a magnification range of 8x or more. Easy enough? Second, make sure the turrets are reliable. Steve has never not known guns. If you use your rifle primarily for small game or homestead defense (>100 yards), then go for a magnification between 1 – 4x. They all do their job. Now that you have your magnification, the next thing to find is the right…. This is the part 99% of people screw up on. Generally the base models were matte finish with a stand duplex reticle. Because of this, there are actually two scope types: Fixed power scope means there’s only 1 magnification (Ex: 3X), while variable allows you to choose from a range of magnifications (Ex: 2-7X). Join our community. An 8-power scope enlarges things eight times, making it seem to be closer than when seen through a 4-power scope. So, instead of the 3-9x that once awed sportsmen with its versatility, you can get a 3-12x, a 3-15x, or a 3-18x. To comment on this article please login or create an account. It happens when your scope’s reticle kind of bobs around with your head movement. Here’s the best reticle to choose based on your use: If you’re a hunter or target shooter, go for a Duplex. With a scope, you simply have to line up your crosshairs (reticle) with your target. However, if it says 2-7×32… then the first range of numbers (2-7) is the magnification. However, you will notice more shaking at levels higher than 10X if you have an unsteady hand simply because the image is magnified more. In fact, they operate interchangeably like miles per hour and kilometers per hour. It’s easier and more popular. And finally, if you’re solely a long range shooter, then go for 50mm & up objective lens. 9AM-5PM CST Sat It helps estimate target’s distance. The eyepiece’s focal length (for example, 25mm) To find the magnification, we’ll simply divide the numbers: 1200mm / 25mm = 48x magnification That’s it!