If you just bought a rifle, even if you’re an experienced shooter, the scope market can be a bit confusing. Choosing a rifle scope that serves your intended purpose can be challenging, with so many types and brands in the market. Experts from Lake Charles Tackle have prepared an in-depth guide to help you know what specifications and features to consider while shopping for the proper scope for your gun. Let’s dive in.
Magnification
Magnification is one of the essential features to consider when picking a rifle scope. You shouldn’t buy a rifle scope with too little or too much magnification. Instead, you need to find the perfect magnification for your gun. Generally, there are two main scope types—fixed power scope and variable power scope.
Fixed power scope uses only a single magnification, while variable power uses multiple magnification ranges. What you pick is based on your situation. For example, if you intend to shoot from various distances, you can shop for a variable-powered scope. Otherwise, opt-in for fixed power scope.
Scope Reticles
A reticle, also known as a crosshair, is the aiming point you see when you focus through the rifle scope. There are various types of reticles, and each is used differently. The most common reticles include the duplex, the simplest pattern used for target shooting (hunting).
The BDC reticle is ideal for long-range shooting, while the Mil-Dot reticle helps you estimate your object’s distance-based size, making it perfect for military and law enforcement. Reticles are often mounted at the rear or on the front of the magnification lens.
Size of the Objective Lens
Typically, a large objective lens makes your image brighter and clearer. However, that doesn’t mean that getting a scope with a big objective lens is necessarily a good idea. Also, numerous objective lenses could mean adding excess weight to your rifle scope because it usually requires bigger scope rings, which can, in turn, make your scope more susceptible to sunlight reflection.
Therefore, it’s recommended you purchase a proper size of the objective lens for your firearm. For example, if your rifle has low recoil and low power scope and you use it for short-range hunting, opt for a 28mm or below.
But if it has a lot of recoil with a high rifle scope, we suggest getting a 30mm to 44mm objective lens. Alternatively, if you’re using your firearm for long-range shooting or use high magnification in low light hunting, consider getting 50mm and above.
Focal Plane
A firearm’s scope is put in either the First Focal Plane-FFP or in the Second Focal Plane. The FFP allows the reticle’s size to change as you adjust magnifications. On the other hand, a Second Focal Plane reticle remains static whether you change the magnification or not. This means that if you are a short-range shooter, you should opt for an SFP and get a First Focal Plane if you’re a long-range shooter.
Get the Appropriate Scope for Your Rifle Today
If you’re searching for the proper scope for your rifle, Lake Charles Tackle is your one-stop shop. We are the leading suppliers of top-quality rifles and accessories in the U.S. Please contact us online or browse our website to learn more about rifle scopes and buy what’s best for your firearm.