Hunting scopes are one of the most important pieces of equipment that a hunter can buy. They allow hunters to accurately shoot at their target, and they also make it easier for hunters to see in low-light conditions.
But with so many different types of hunting scopes on the market, how do you know which one is best? In the pages linked above, we discuss what hunting scopes are, different types of hunting scopes such as red dot sights and telescopic sights, and how these optics work together with rifle or shotgun barrels to create an accurate shot.
We’ll also offer some tips on choosing the right optic for your needs as well as specific individual scope reviews and recommendations.
What Is An Optical Scope?
An optical scope is a device that attaches to the action of your rifle or shotgun, and it helps you make sure you hit your target. It does this by magnifying an image so everything looks bigger than they really are – which makes them easier for hunters with less-than-perfect eyesight (or who need glasses). Optical scopes also have different types of crosshairs as well; these help shooters aim at their target more accurately because when we look through our riflescope.
Scopes can come in different magnification levels, either fixed or zoomable. They can have different types of reticles or crosshairs that help you center on your target in different conditions. They can have different sizes, weights, and high-tech features like illuminated reticles, night vision, and even thermal imaging!
What are the different types of scopes?
There are two main types of scopes: fixed and zoomable. Fixed-power rifle scope is a one magnification level, meaning it will always show the same size image no matter what distance you’re shooting from or how far away your target appears to be (in other words – they don’t change).
Zoomed power riflescope has variable magnifications that can range anywhere between three times up close all way out as much as 25x or more for long distances! The higher number means more detail but also less light coming in through them because it is magnifying the image that comes in through a fixed size objective lens.
If I’m hunting during sunrise/sunset hours or on cloudy days when it’s slightly darker outside it may be more difficult to see your target clearly through a high power magnification setting.
This is one of the major differences between lower-cost scopes and higher-cost scopes, the overall level of light transmittance in higher-cost scopes is usually better and therefore provides a better image at higher magnification and lower light conditions. Usually, but not always!
Is A Bigger Objective Lens Better?
A bigger objective lens allows the scope to gather more light and detail from the object it is pointed at. This usually gives you a better image in low light and at higher zoom levels. However, this can often come at a higher cost than a smaller objective lens scope.
It also creates a heavier and overall larger scope that can make your lightweight mountain rifle into a heavy load to carry around on longer backcountry hunts.
The objective lens is the front part of a scope that gathers light and sends it to your eye. The bigger this piece, generally speaking – meaning more light and gathering capability. For example, the better quality image you will see through any given rifle optic at low levels of ambient lighting conditions as well in high contrast situations like bright sunlight on snowfields with dark shadows from trees nearby).
This means less time spent adjusting focus or squinting to make out details when scoping targets which can be frustrating if there’s not enough natural daylight available during hunting hours!
What Should I Look For When Buying A Scope?
There are many different factors that can come into the decision of choosing the right scope for your specific hunting needs. Do you need a short-ranged fixed power scope for thick bush? Or, do you need a High power scope with a first focal plane BDC reticle for hunting coyotes on the open prairie?
How does your budget fit into the equation? If you just bought a $6000 custom long-range rifle then you won’t want to put a $300 budget scope on it but also, if you are putting together a low-cost rig for your son’s first hunt then that may just be the right scope for the job.
Check Out Our Articles Above To Find The Best Rifle Scope For You
Have a look through the articles above to help determine the best scope for your hunting needs. Whether that is a low-cost fixed power scope or a high-end scope with all the bells and whistles. Our scope reviews and informational articles above will help you choose the best scope for you!