Buying a tactical scope can be a daunting task due to the wide variety of options available on the market. It requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure that you choose the right scope for your specific needs.
Tactical scopes are designed to enhance accuracy and precision in shooting and are commonly used by hunters, sports shooters, and law enforcement professionals.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Tactical Scope
When it comes to buying a tactical scope, there are several crucial factors that demand our attention.
From the magnification power to the lens coating and image quality, each aspect plays a pivotal role in enhancing our shooting experience.
Magnification Power
When it comes to selecting a tactical scope, the magnification power is a crucial factor to consider. This determines how much the image is enlarged or made closer through the scope. The higher the magnification power, the more detail you can observe, particularly for long-range shooting.
| Magnification Power | Application |
| Low (1-4x) | Perfect for short-range shooting and quickly acquiring targets. |
| Medium (5-9x) | Offers versatility for mid-range shooting and is suitable for various shooting scenarios. |
| High (10x and above) | Ideal for long-range shooting, precise shooting, and identifying targets at far distances. |
It is crucial to select a magnification power that matches your shooting requirements and the distances at which you typically engage targets.
Remember, higher magnification also increases the size and weight of the scope, which may affect its portability and ease of use.
Additionally, consider the quality of the glass and the image clarity at different magnification levels, as this can significantly influence your shooting experience.
Objective Lens Size
When considering the purchase of a tactical scope, the Objective Lens Size is an important factor to take into account.
The objective lens is the lens located at the front of the scope, and its size plays a crucial role in determining the performance and capabilities of the scope.
| Objective Lens Size | Implications |
| A larger objective lens size, typically between 40mm to 56mm | Allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in brighter and clearer images, especially in low-light conditions. It provides better visibility and target acquisition. |
| A smaller objective lens size, generally between 24mm to 32mm | Offers a more compact and lightweight scope, making it easier to maneuver and carry. It may be suitable for close to medium-range shooting scenarios. |
When selecting a tactical scope, it’s essential to consider your shooting needs and preferences. If you frequently engage in low-light situations or require enhanced clarity, a larger objective lens size would be beneficial.
On the other hand, if portability and a more compact design are priorities, a smaller objective lens size may be more suitable.
Fact: A larger objective lens size can increase the overall weight of the scope and may require larger mounting options to ensure compatibility.
Reticle Type
The reticle type is an important consideration when buying a tactical scope. There are different reticle designs available, each with its own advantages and purposes.
| Crosshair Reticle | The crosshair reticle is the most common type and consists of intersecting lines forming a crosshair pattern. It provides a simple and clear aiming point. |
| Mil-Dot Reticle | The mil-dot reticle is based on the milradian unit of angular measurement. It features dots or hash marks along the reticle’s vertical and horizontal axes, allowing for precise distance estimations and bullet drop compensation. |
| BDC Reticle | The BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticle is designed to compensate for bullet drop at different distances. It usually features multiple aiming points or holdover marks that correspond to specific ranges. |
| MOA Reticle | The MOA (Minute of Angle) reticle uses a measurement unit called the minute of angle. It provides precise elevation and windage adjustments and is often favored by long-range shooters. |
| Horizon Reticle | The horizon reticle is specifically designed for shooting at moving targets. It features horizontal lines that intersect with a vertical aiming point, helping to account for target speed and lead accurately. |
Adjustments and Turrets
When considering adjustments and turrets on a tactical scope, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
- Adjustment Range: Adjustments and turrets should have a wide range to allow for precise aiming and compensation for different shooting distances.
- Click Value: The adjustments and turrets should have a consistent and reliable click value, typically measured in MOA (Minutes of Angle) or Mils.
- Tracking: The scope’s adjustments and turrets should have accurate and repeatable tracking, meaning the adjustments actually move the reticle to the desired point of impact.
- Zeroing Mechanism: A good adjustment and turret system should have a reliable zeroing mechanism to ensure that the scope retains zero after adjustments.
- Turret Type: There are different types of adjustments and turrets available, such as capped, uncapped, exposed, or tactical style turrets. Choose the one that best suits your shooting style and preference.
- Durability: The adjustments and turrets should be sturdy and built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring they remain reliable even in rugged environments.
- User-Friendly: Look for adjustments and turrets that are easy to operate and provide clear and precise feedback, allowing for quick and intuitive adjustments.
Considering these factors will help you choose a tactical scope with reliable and precise adjustments and turrets that meet your shooting needs.
Durability and Construction
When considering a tactical scope, one important factor to look at is the durability and construction of the scope. This determines how well the scope will hold up in different conditions and environments.
| Aspect | Importance |
|---|---|
| Material | A high-quality, durable material such as aircraft-grade aluminum or stainless steel is ideal. These materials can withstand rough handling and provide long-lasting performance. |
| Waterproof | A waterproof scope is essential, especially if you plan to use it in rainy or humid conditions. It will protect the internal components from moisture and ensure reliable performance. |
| Fogproof | A fogproof scope is necessary to prevent fogging on the lens, which can obstruct your view. Look for scopes that are nitrogen-purged or have special coatings to prevent fogging. |
| Shockproof | A shockproof scope can withstand recoil and vibrations from shooting without losing zero or getting damaged. Look for scopes with shockproof features or reinforced construction. |
| Scratch-resistant | A scope with scratch-resistant coatings or materials will maintain its clarity and performance even after regular use. This prevents scratches from impacting your sight picture. |
Lens Coating and Image Quality
When selecting the optimal tactical scope, it is crucial to take into account both the lens coating and the image quality. This factor plays a pivotal role in guaranteeing vivid and sharp visuals during your shooting expedition. Here are some essential factors to consider:
- Quality of lens coating: The lens coating is responsible for diminishing glare and reflections while maximizing the transmission of light. Look for scopes that feature various coatings, such as anti-reflective coatings or fully multi-coated lenses, which heighten the quality of the images.
- Clarity and brightness: A lens coating of high quality will provide exceptional clarity, enabling you to view targets with utmost precision. It should also produce vibrant and luminous images, even when operating in dim lighting conditions. Seek scopes that possess remarkable light-gathering capabilities.
- Color accuracy: The lens coating should also ensure precise color reproduction, allowing you to effectively differentiate between targets and the surrounding environment. This is particularly critical when shooting in different lighting conditions or diverse settings.
- Durable and scratch-resistant coating: The lens coating needs to be resilient, shielding the glass from scratches and impacts. Opt for scopes with coatings that offer resistance to abrasions and can endure harsh conditions without compromising image quality.
- Fog and water resistance: Deliberate on scopes with lens coatings that provide fog and water resistance. These characteristics will prevent moisture buildup, ensuring clear visuals even when confronted with challenging weather conditions.
By thoroughly evaluating both the quality of lens coating and image quality, you can make an informed decision and select a tactical scope that offers clear, vibrant, and accurate visuals, thereby enhancing your overall shooting performance.
Eye Relief and Field of View
The importance of eye relief and field of view cannot be overstated when it comes to a tactical scope. Achieving a comfortable and accurate shooting experience relies on considering these factors. Here are some key points to remember:
- Eye Relief: The distance between your eye and the scope’s ocular lens is known as eye relief. It is crucial to choose a scope with adequate eye relief to prevent injuries from recoil and ensure a clear and unobstructed view of the target.
- Field of View: The field of view determines the width of the visible area through the scope at a particular distance. A wider field of view enhances tracking of moving targets and increases situational awareness.
- Consider Your Shooting Style: Different shooting styles and environments necessitate specific eye relief and field of view requirements. For instance, tactical shooting or hunting in dense forest conditions may benefit from a wider field of view, while long-range precision shooting may prioritize precise eye relief for consistent shot placement.
- Adjustments and Compatibility: It is vital to ensure that the chosen scope allows for easy adjustments of eye relief and is compatible with your firearm to achieve optimal alignment and sight picture.
Mounting Options and Compatibility
When choosing a tactical scope, it’s important to consider the mounting options and compatibility with your firearm. The most common mounting options include the Picatinny Rail, Weaver Mount, Dovetail Mount, Quick Detach (QD) Mount, and Scope Rings.
The Picatinny Rail is a popular mounting option and is compatible with most modern firearms. It allows for secure attachment of the scope to the firearm.
The Weaver Mount is another option that is compatible with Weaver-style bases. It provides a solid and reliable mounting solution.
For firearms that have dovetail slots, the Dovetail Mount is a suitable choice. It ensures a secure fit and proper alignment.
The Quick Detach (QD) Mount is beneficial if you need to quickly attach or detach the scope. It allows for easy removal or repositioning.
Scope Rings are another mounting option that is available in various sizes to fit different diameter scopes. They provide a stable and secure connection between the scope and the firearm.
Considering the compatibility of the mounting options is essential to ensure a proper fit and alignment. Make sure to choose a mounting option that is compatible with your firearm to ensure a secure and reliable setup.
Price and Budget
When considering price and budget for buying a tactical scope, it is important to set a realistic range that aligns with your needs and preferences. Here is a breakdown of factors to consider:
| Factor | Importance |
| Quality of Optics | High |
| Magnification Power | Medium |
| Reticle Type | Medium |
| Durability and Construction | High |
| Adjustments and Turrets | Medium |
| Objective Lens Size | Low |
| Lens Coating and Image Quality | High |
| Eye Relief and Field of View | Medium |
| Mounting Options and Compatibility | Low |
While price is an important consideration, it should not be the sole determining factor when buying a tactical scope.
It is essential to invest in a reliable and high-quality scope that meets your specific shooting needs, even if it means stretching your budget slightly. It is recommended to research and read reviews to find scopes that offer good value for money.
Understanding the Different Types of Tactical Scopes
Long-Range Tactical Scopes
When it comes to long-range tactical scopes, there are several factors to consider in order to make an informed decision. The table below highlights these key factors:
| Magnification Power | Higher magnification allows for better target identification and precision at long distances. |
| Objective Lens Size | A larger objective lens diameter increases light gathering capability, resulting in brighter images. |
| Reticle Type | Different reticle patterns offer varying levels of accuracy and ease of use for long-range shooting. |
| Adjustments and Turrets | Precise and easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms are essential for dialing in the correct elevation and windage corrections. |
| Durability and Construction | A sturdy and weather-resistant construction ensures reliability and performance in challenging conditions. |
| Lens Coating and Image Quality | High-quality lens coatings minimize glare and enhance image clarity and brightness. |
| Eye Relief and Field of View | Adequate eye relief allows for comfortable viewing, while a wider field of view helps with target acquisition. |
| Mounting Options and Compatibility | The scope should be compatible with your firearm and offer flexible mounting options to ensure a secure fit. |
| Price and Budget | Consider your budget and find a scope that offers the best combination of features and value within your price range. |
A pro tip for choosing a long-range tactical scope is to prioritize optical clarity and reliability in harsh conditions. Opting for higher quality optics can significantly impact your shooting accuracy and overall experience.
Compact and Lightweight Tactical Scopes
When considering compact and lightweight tactical scopes, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
- Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight scopes are designed to be smaller and lighter than traditional scopes, making them ideal for those who need to minimize the weight and bulk of their gear.
- Magnification Power: While compact scopes may have lower magnification power compared to larger scopes, they still offer a range of magnification options suitable for various shooting scenarios.
- Durability: Look for scopes that are made from durable materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure they can withstand rugged conditions and frequent use.
- Reticle Type: Consider the type of reticle that suits your shooting needs. Some popular options include duplex, mil-dot, and BDC reticles.
- Optical Quality: Opt for scopes that have quality lenses and coatings to provide clear and crisp images, even in low light conditions.
- Adjustments: Look for scopes with easy and precise adjustments for windage and elevation to ensure accurate aiming and shooting.
- Mounting Options: Ensure the scope is compatible with the mounting system on your firearm to ensure a secure and stable fit.
- Price and Budget: Consider your budget and find a compact and lightweight scope that offers a good balance between price and performance.
When purchasing a compact and lightweight tactical scope, take the time to research and choose a reputable brand and retailer to ensure you are getting a high-quality product that meets your needs.
Tactical Scopes for Low-Light Conditions
When it comes to tactical scopes for low-light conditions, there are several important factors to consider:
- A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in brighter images in low-light conditions.
- Opt for a reticle that is designed specifically for low-light conditions, such as illuminated or night vision reticles. These reticles help improve visibility in dark environments.
- Look for scopes with high-quality lens coatings, such as anti-reflective coatings, to maximize light transmission and minimize glare. This ensures clear and bright images even in low-light conditions.
- Choose a scope that provides easy and precise adjustments for brightness settings and low-light conditions. This allows you to quickly adapt to changing lighting conditions.
- Opt for a scope that is rugged and built to withstand harsh conditions. This ensures that your scope will perform reliably even in low-light situations.
By considering these factors, you can choose tactical scopes for low-light conditions that are well-equipped to handle low-light conditions effectively. Remember to always test the scope before making a final decision to ensure it meets your specific needs.
Tactical Scopes with Bullet Drop Compensation
Tactical scopes with bullet drop compensation are specifically designed to compensate for the effect of gravity on the trajectory of the bullet.
These scopes come equipped with adjustable elevation turrets that enable the shooter to make precise adjustments for different distances and bullet drops.
Typically, a bullet drop compensating reticle is included in these scopes, eliminating the need for adjusting turrets by providing holdover points for various distances.
By using a tactical scope with bullet drop compensation, the shooter can engage targets at varying distances quickly and with great accuracy.
These scopes are widely utilized by long-range shooters, hunters, and military personnel who need to swiftly adapt to changing shooting conditions.
It is essential to select a scope that aligns with your specific shooting needs as the degree of bullet drop compensation may vary.
Some tactical scopes with bullet drop compensation offer customizable ballistic turrets or reticles, allowing the shooter to tailor the compensation according to their ammunition and shooting conditions.
To ensure precise compensation, it is crucial to comprehend the ballistics of the ammunition in use and match it with the capabilities of the scope.
When considering a tactical scope with bullet drop compensation, it is of utmost importance to choose one from reputable brands known for their quality and reliability.
Additionally, factors like magnification power, durability, and image quality should be taken into account to ensure the chosen scope meets all your shooting requirements.
Tips for Buying a Tactical Scope
Research and Read Reviews
When looking to buy a tactical scope, it is crucial to engage in thorough research and carefully peruse customer reviews in order to make an informed decision. Here are some reasons why:
- Validate Claims: By conducting diligent research and reading reviews, you can effectively confirm the assertions made by manufacturers and retailers regarding the performance and features of the tactical scope. Insights from experienced users will provide valuable information about the scope’s actual capabilities.
- Compare Options: By carefully evaluating various reviews, you can discern between different tactical scopes and assess their respective features. This will enable you to pinpoint the scope that best suits your shooting needs and personal preferences.
- Identify Potential Issues: By perusing reviews, you can proactively uncover any possible issues or drawbacks associated with a particular scope. Customers often mention any problems they encountered, such as durability issues or inaccuracies in adjustments.
- Real-Life Experiences: Reviews offer genuine accounts from users who have already obtained and utilized the tactical scope. This grants you a better understanding of the scope’s performance across distinct shooting scenarios.
- Confidence in Purchase: Through conducting thorough research and reading reviews, you can enhance your confidence in making the purchase decision. Knowing that others have had positive experiences with a specific tactical scope will contribute to a sense of reassurance and certainty regarding your decision.
Set a Realistic Budget
When purchasing a tactical scope, it is crucial to establish a practical and attainable budget. Here are several factors to take into account:
- Consider the price: Tactical scopes can vary in cost, ranging from $100 to several thousand dollars. Determine your budget prior to commencing your search.
- Evaluate your requirements: Ponder the purpose of your tactical scope. Will it be used for hunting, competitive shooting, or tactical operations? Your specific needs will impact your budget.
- Quality versus price: Although it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, remember that quality matters. Seek a balance between price and features to obtain the best value within your budget.
- Conduct research and comparisons: Read reviews and compare prices across different brands and retailers. This will provide an understanding of the average price range for the desired features.
- Account for supplementary expenses: The scope itself is merely one cost. You may also need to purchase mounting accessories, lens covers, and other additional items, so remember to include these in your budget.
- Anticipate future upgrades: If you have plans to upgrade your tactical scope in the future, consider investing in a more versatile mount or platform that can accommodate various scopes.
- Warranty and customer support: Verify the manufacturer’s warranty and assess the reputation of their customer support. This will offer peace of mind in case any issues arise with your purchase.
Consider Your Shooting Needs and Preferences
When considering your shooting needs and preferences, it is important to take into account several factors that can help you choose the right tactical scope:
- Magnification Power: Determine the level of magnification you require based on the type of shooting you will be doing. Higher magnification is ideal for long-range shooting, while lower magnification is suitable for close-quarters combat.
- Objective Lens Size: Consider the size of the objective lens as it determines the amount of light that enters the scope. Larger objective lenses allow for brighter images, making them suitable for low-light conditions.
- Reticle Type: Choose a reticle type that aligns with your shooting style. Common types include duplex, mil-dot, and BDC reticles.
- Adjustments and Turrets: Look for scopes with precise and easy-to-use adjustment features. Turrets with audible and tactile clicks make it easier to adjust for windage and elevation.
- Durability and Construction: Consider the build quality and materials used in the scope. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof to ensure they withstand various conditions.
- Lens Coating and Image Quality: Opt for scopes with high-quality lens coatings that enhance light transmission and minimize glare. This results in clearer and sharper images.
- Eye Relief and Field of View: Ensure that the scope provides sufficient eye relief for comfortable shooting. A wider field of view allows for easier target acquisition.
- Mounting Options and Compatibility: Consider the mounting options available for the scope and ensure it is compatible with your firearm.
- Price and Budget: Determine your budget and find a scope that offers the features you need within your price range.
By considering your shooting needs and preferences, you can find a tactical scope that meets your requirements.
Test the Scope Before Making a Decision
When buying a tactical scope, it is crucial to perform a comprehensive test on the scope before finalizing your decision.
This will guarantee that you are selecting the most suitable scope for your shooting requirements and preferences. Here are the steps to follow:
- Set up the scope on your firearm following the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously.
- Ensure the scope is securely mounted and aligned correctly.
- Adjust the eyepiece to attain a clear and focused image.
- Look through the scope and examine for any distortion or aberration in the image.
- Fine-tune the magnification power and assess if it operates smoothly.
- Evaluate the adjustments and turrets to determine their ease of use and accuracy.
- Transport the firearm to a shooting range and evaluate the scope’s performance at various distances.
- Inspect the reticle type and ensure it complements your shooting style and preferences.
- Take into consideration the scope’s durability and construction by testing its resistance to recoil and diverse weather conditions.
By diligently adhering to these steps and conducting a thorough test on the scope, you can make a well-informed decision and choose a tactical scope that perfectly caters to your needs and elevates your shooting experience.
Buy from Reputable Brands and Retailers
When it comes to purchasing a tactical scope, it is essential to buy from reputable brands and retailers. There are several reasons why this is important:
- Quality Assurance: Reputable brands and retailers have a proven track record of delivering high-quality products. They prioritize customer satisfaction and ensure that their products meet the highest standards of performance and durability.
- Product Warranty: When you purchase from reputable brands and retailers, you often receive the benefit of a product warranty. This provides you with added peace of mind, knowing that you are protected in case of any issues or defective parts.
- Expertise and Support: Reputable brands and retailers have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance and assistance when selecting a tactical scope. They are available to address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring that you can make an informed decision.
- Authenticity: By choosing reputable brands and retailers, you can be confident that you are purchasing genuine products. In the market, there are many counterfeit scopes, and buying from trusted sources helps you avoid falling victim to scams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider when buying a tactical scope?
- Magnification: Determine the magnification range that suits your specific needs, such as 3-9x, for a versatile scope.
- Objective Lens Size: Consider the diameter of the objective lens. A larger lens allows more light, resulting in a brighter image.
- Weight: Take into account the weight of the scope, especially if you will be participating in activities that require a lot of movement.
- Elevation/Windage Adjustment: Look for scopes with reliable adjustment turrets for precise control over bullet impact. Windage turrets are responsible for horizontal adjustments, while elevation turrets handle vertical adjustments.
- Lens Coating: Choose a scope with quality lens coatings to enhance light transmission. Fully multicoated lenses offer the best performance.
- Reticle: Consider the type of reticle that suits your shooting needs, such as duplex, mil-dot, or BDC. The thickness of the crosshairs can affect shot precision.
- Focal Plane: Decide whether a first or second focal plane scope is more suitable for your shooting style. First focal plane scopes zoom in proportionately with the target, while second focal plane scopes maintain a consistent reticle size.
- Tube Size: Consider the tube size of the scope, typically available in 30mm and 1-inch diameters. The choice of tube size is subjective.
What is the importance of magnification in a tactical scope?
Magnification plays a crucial role in a tactical scope as it determines how much closer the target will appear compared to the naked eye.
The first number in a riflescope’s name represents its magnification power. Higher magnification settings provide a narrower field of view, making them suitable for long-range shooting or precision target shooting.
However, it’s important to select the right magnification range for your intended use to avoid overpowered calibers and potential missed shots or wounded game.
What is the significance of the objective lens size when choosing a tactical scope?
The objective lens size is the diameter of the lens closest to the barrel of the rifle. It plays a crucial role in determining the clarity and brightness of the image.
A larger objective lens allows more light to reach the eyepiece, resulting in a brighter image. However, it’s essential to consider the weight of the scope, as larger objective lenses can make the scope heavier.
Finding the right balance between size and weight is important when selecting a tactical scope.
What are the key features to consider in the reticle of a tactical scope?
The reticle, also known as the “crosshair,” is an important consideration when choosing a tactical scope. The thickness of the crosshairs can affect the precision of your shot.
Additionally, different types of reticles, such as duplex, mil-dot, or BDC, specialize in various uses. Some reticles may include posts or scales to help compensate for bullet drop at greater distances.
Consider your shooting needs and preferences when selecting the reticle that best suits your requirements.
Why is the choice of focal plane important in a tactical scope?
The choice of focal plane in a tactical scope determines whether the reticle’s size adjusts as the magnification changes or remains the same.
In second focal plane scopes, the reticle’s size remains constant, while in first focal plane scopes, the reticle zooms in proportionately with the target.
First focal plane scopes are advantageous for long-range shooting as the reticle’s measurements remain accurate across all magnification settings.
However, second focal plane scopes can provide a simpler and consistent reticle size for shooters who don’t require precise measurements at various magnification levels.
How do windage and elevation adjustment turrets impact a tactical scope?
Windage and elevation adjustment turrets are crucial features in a tactical scope as they allow you to adjust the position of the bullet’s impact.
Windage turrets are responsible for horizontal adjustments, while elevation turrets handle vertical adjustments. These adjustments are particularly useful for tactical shooters making long-distance shots, as they provide precision control over where the bullet will hit.
Look for scopes with reliable and precise turrets that offer audible clicks and good repeatability for accurate adjustments.
