Multi-Coated: Several layers on at least one surface.

Fully-Coated: A single layer on all exterior glass surfaces.Coated: One layer on at least one surface.Lens CoatingsĪ lens coat is an invisible coat that reduces glare and enhances the sight. Simple enough, right? So now that you’ve selected the right amount of objective lens, it’s time to discuss. You can find how much objective lens a scope has by looking at the number after the x.įor example, if a scope says 2 ×30, that means the scope has a 30mm objective lens. Lastly, if you’re a long-range shooter or using high magnification in low light, then opt-in for 50mm & up.However, if your firearm has quite a bit of recoil, you’re using it for low light hunting, and have a high power scope, then get 30 - 44mm.If your firearm has low recoil, you’re using it for close range hunting, and have a low power scope, then get 28mm & under.So, if not a lot, then how much objective lens should you buy? (Which gives off your shooting position). That being said, should you get a scope that has A LOT of objective lens? Not really.īuying a scope that has too much objective lens could be harmful by adding excess weight, requires taller scope rings, and makes your scope more prone to sunlight reflection. Generally, the bigger the objective lens, the brighter and clearer your image will be. The objective lens is the lens located at the end of the scope and is responsible for light transmission. Once you’ve selected the type of magnification, it’s time to understand… Objective Lens Otherwise, go with a variable powered scope. If you plan on shooting from only one distance, then opt-in for fixed powered scope. (Like 3-9×40.)īut the question is, which one should you use?įrom my experience, I’d go with variable powered scopes because it allows you to shoot in a variety of environments and situations.īut it also depends. On the other hand, variable power means that your scope uses MORE than one magnification. Variable Powerįixed power means that your scope uses only ONE magnification. And actually, there are two types of magnification. You might be wondering: what’s the difference between 2x and 3-9x?īesides the amount of magnification, the main difference between them is the type of magnification. What if a scope says 3-9×40? That means the magnification is 3-9x. To find how much magnification a scope has, look at the first number (or range of numbers) before the x.įor example, if a scope says 2×30, that means the magnification is 2x. How about target shooting (beyond 200 yards) or huntimg in open landscapes (deserts, fields, etc.)? Get a magnification between 9-12x.įor example, if I’m going to hunt varmints and small game with a Savage A17 that’s equipped with a 17 HMR scope, then I’ll probably need some magnification (like 3 - 9x).Target shooting (up to 200 yards), stalk large game, or hunt in closed landscapes (forests, mountains, etc.)? Get a magnification between 5-8x.Do you use your rifle primarily for target shooting (up to 100 yards), stalk small game, or homestead defense? Get a magnification between 1-4x.That’s why I recommend the amount of magnification based on your use. In fact, if you buy too much magnification, not only have you wasted your hard-earned money but you may not even use it. But how much magnification do you need?Ī LOT of rookies would say, “ buy as much magnification as you can”.

If a scope’s magnification is 8X that means you can see EIGHT TIMES closer than the naked eye. Magnification is how much closer the target appears than what is seen with the naked eye. If you want to go from rifle scope rookie to rifle scope pro, you’ll love this guide. A little more (with an exclusive, Bushnell-only bonus section).This guide will show you everything you need to know about rifle scopes.

Parallax definition rifle scope