How can you determine whether you're getting the most effective scope for your gun? There are several things to consider when making that decision. The first of which is, what magnification or objective lens size is required? Magnification would be decided by the average distance between shots shot. If you use the scope for shotguns or muzzle loaders high magnifications above 7-9X isn't useful. The majority of shots are shot at fairly close range, making 3 to 4X most comfortable. Larger magnification limits the field of view. Varmint hunting often requires high magnification to make accurate shots at long-range. Many competition shooters appreciate the advantages of high magnification in order to shoot precise and prize-winning shots. The majority of hunting in our Midwest area is done in close quarters, which limits the effectiveness of extreme magnification scopes. Heavy underbrush or hills make for shots that don't exceed 200 to 300 yards for which a 3 to 9X scope will suffice. Size of the objective lens in millimeters determines how much light allowed to enter the scope. A 33mm lens does not let in as much light as a 50mm lens. A 50mm lens can make objects appear more bright and clear. The magnification and objective lens size are both important to the variety of photos that can be taken.

Second, the environment determines the level of quality in the coating and optics. Shots placed in low lighting conditions require a lens that will bring as much light as possible. Every time light passes through a lens, light transmission is decreased, and the larger the lens the greater light source. A lens coating that reduces reflection and allows it to enter the scope is beneficial. High magnification scopes contain more lenses and transmit less light. Zoom scopes feature many lenses and can transmit less light. A high quality scope will have more than 90 percent light transmission. A magnifying Zoom scope is more expensive than some however, it has characteristics that can prevent it from failing in the worst moment. There are several kinds of coating. Coated: one coating on at minimum 1 lens' surface. Fully Coated: one layer on all air to glass surfaces. Multi Coated: more than one layer on at minimum of one lens surface. Full Multi Coated: Multiple layers across all glass and air surfaces. While it is more expensive to purchase properly coated quality optics, the benefits are apparent if shooting in low light conditions.

Another thing to consider is the reticle and how it is adjusted. For scopes that are to be zeroed and left alone Many adjustment turrets come with a coin slot. As the scopes are made more adjustable for the wind or the weight of the bullet, its range and so on. These adjustments might have to be made on the spot. They can be pretty nice in this situation. The choice of reticle design is largely a personal preference, however the quality isn't a matter of debate. Gun Range Lead Cleanup To be assured of regular adjustments, it's worthwhile to purchase a high-quality scope from a reputable manufacturer. Many cheap scopes have low-quality reticle attachments. The pounding recoil of modern-day heavy rifles or muzzle loaders can, after a few shots, change the adjuster or break at the most critical moment, for instance, shooting at the trophy buck of the lifetime.

In the end there are a lot of factors to consider to ensure the purchase of the best scope for your gun. All of them are related to how you plan to use the gun. The shape and size of the gun determine the mounting options. The experience of the hunter will help you decide in the direction of magnification. Imagine a novice hunter trying to hold a large magnification scope steady at distances of a long distance; it's almost impossible unless the firearm is sandbagged or on the gun rest. For ease of use, a lower magnification scope is the simplest to start with. The range of the shots to be fired determines the required magnification. Most of the scopes in the range of 3-4X will be enough to comfortably observe and hit the target. Some of the competitive shooting done on gun rests and bags of sand, performed by skilled shooters, might require greater magnification. The cost of high-quality lenses and coatings, reticle adjustments and durability is well worth it when shooting in any harsh circumstances. Like all scopes, it should be completely guaranteed for life and waterproof. There are many choices out there for scopes, and when that trophy is on the wall, the few extra dollars paid for quality will seem worthwhile in hindsight. Have fun shooting!