How to Choose a Tactical Scope

A tactical scope uses optics to enhance the target size making it ideal for long-range target hunting and shooting. It helps make shots more accurate which means that it's important to carefully think through your scope selection to make sure it works for you.

Sometimes this type of scope can be more expensive than the rifle itself and should not be purchased hastily unless you're fine with wasting your hard-earned money. The type of tactical scope you end up buying will depend on specifically how you use it including the weather conditions you'll be using it in and your quarry. Other factors to consider include the make and model of your rifle, elevation adjustments, windage, ocular lenses and the eye piece.

Questions to Ask Yourself

To help you narrow down the type of tactical scope that will work best for you, ask yourself the following questions.

1. What is my usual shooting range and my maximum shooting range? It's important to know the typical distance you'll be shooting so you know how strong of a magnification you need.

2. What are my rifle stats? Rifle stats refer to the length, weight, height and any other information about the physical properties of your rifle. Knowing the rifle stats will make it more likely that you'll choose a scope that performs well with your gun.

3. What type of power do I want out of my scope? Scopes can be variable power or fixed power. Variable power provides the most flexibility and allows you to change between a set range of powers as the need arises. The fixed power scope doesn't allow you to change power ranges. There was a time when fixed power scopes were the best and the variable ones were too inaccurate, but technology has significantly improved the variable power ones.

Magnification Types

This can be difficult to figure out and will depend on the size of the target you're shooting and the distance at which you need to shoot it. A high range magnification of over 10x is available, but some users say they create grainy magnifications that are stressful on the eyes. Typically a magnification of between 2x and 10x is good for the average hunter. Magnification of 4x will provide good viewing at 500 yards while magnification of 10x will provide good viewing at 1000 yards.

Lens Size

A bigger scope lens does not necessarily mean a better tactical scope. While a big lens can mean overall improved image quality and ultimately a better shooting range, they do tend to be bulky and difficult to carry around. Large lenses can also reflect more light and reflect it easier than a smaller lens simply because there's more glass surface to catch the light. All it takes is one flash of light and your prey will know you're there and will take off.