Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right magnification for my rifle scope?
Choosing the right magnification depends on your intended use:
- Close range (under 100 yards): 1-4x magnification is typically sufficient
- Medium range (100-300 yards): 3-9x magnification works well
- Long range (300+ yards): 10x and higher magnification is recommended
Consider the terrain and typical shooting distances in your hunting area when selecting magnification.
What does the objective lens diameter affect?
The objective lens diameter (measured in mm) determines how much light your scope can gather. Larger objective lenses allow more light transmission, providing brighter images in low-light conditions.
However, larger objectives also make the scope heavier and require higher mounting. For most hunting applications, a 40-44mm objective lens provides a good balance between light gathering and weight.
What's the difference between first and second focal plane scopes?
First Focal Plane (FFP): The reticle size changes as you adjust magnification. This means that holdover points, range estimation features, and subtensions remain accurate at any magnification level.
Second Focal Plane (SFP): The reticle size remains constant regardless of magnification. Holdover points and ranging features are only accurate at one specific magnification (typically the highest).
FFP scopes are preferred for long-range precision shooting, while SFP scopes are often more affordable and preferred by hunters who use a single magnification setting most of the time.
How do I properly zero my rifle scope?
To zero your rifle scope:
- Mount your scope securely and ensure all screws are tight
- Use a stable shooting position (preferably a bench rest)
- Start at a shorter distance (25-50 yards) to get on paper
- Fire a 3-shot group
- Adjust your windage (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) turrets to move the point of impact toward your point of aim
- Fire another group and continue adjusting until your point of impact matches your point of aim
- Once zeroed at the shorter distance, move to your desired zero distance (typically 100 yards) and fine-tune
What does MOA and MRAD/MIL mean?
MOA (Minute of Angle) and MRAD/MIL (Milliradian) are angular measurements used for scope adjustments and holdovers:
MOA: 1 MOA equals approximately 1.047 inches at 100 yards. Most hunting scopes use 1/4 MOA adjustments, meaning each click moves the point of impact 1/4 inch at 100 yards.
MRAD/MIL: 1 MRAD equals 3.6 inches at 100 yards. Most tactical scopes use 1/10 MRAD adjustments, meaning each click moves the point of impact 0.36 inches at 100 yards.
Neither system is inherently better - it's mostly a matter of preference and what you're comfortable calculating with.
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