How can you determine whether you're getting the best scope for your gun? There are a variety of factors to consider in making that choice. The first would be, what magnification and size of the objective lens is required? Magnification will be determined by the average distance of shots placed. For those who use the scope for shotguns or muzzle loaders high magnifications above 7-9X isn't useful. The majority of shots are shot within a reasonable distance, making 3 to 4X most comfortable. Larger magnification limits the view field. Hunting for varmints often requires high magnification in order to make precise shots at long distances. A lot of shooters in competition benefit from extreme magnification to make precise and award-winning shots. Most hunting in our Midwest region is conducted within tight spaces, which reduces the efficacy of the extreme magnification scopes. The dense underbrush or hills are ideal the ideal shot for those who don't go beyond 200-300 yards, for which the average 3-9X scope would be sufficient. Objective lens size in millimeters determines the amount light that is allowed into the scope. A 33mm objective lens won't allow as much light as 50mm lenses. The 50mm lens will make objects appear brighter and clearer. The magnification and the objective size of the lens are both relevant to the range of shots taken.
The second factor is the conditions that determine the quality of coatings and optics. Images taken in dim light conditions need an optic that can bring the most light is possible. When light passes through lenses, the transmission of light is reduced, so that the more powerful the lens, the more available light. A coating on the lens that blocks reflected light and instead lets it enter the scope is a good idea. Higher magnification scopes have many lenses and transmit less light. Zoom scopes come with more lenses and transmit even less light. A quality scope will have more than 90 percent light transmission. A high magnification Zoom scope will be higher priced than others but will have features that will keep it from breaking at the most critical time. There are various types of coating. Coated: one coating on at least one lens surface. Fully Coated: one coating on all glass to air surfaces. Multi coated More than one coating on at least one lens surface. Full Multi Coated: Multiple layers covering 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 consideration 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 wind, Firing Range Experts bullet weight, range and more. The adjustments will need to be made in the field. The turrets that can be adjusted by fingers are quite nice at that point. The choice of reticle configuration is mostly personal choice but the durability isn't negotiable. To ensure repeated adjustments, it's worthwhile to purchase a high-quality scope from a reputable manufacturer. Most cheap scopes feature low-quality reticle attachments. The crushing recoil of today's muzzle loaders or heavy rifles 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 conclusion there are a lot of factors to consider to ensure the purchase of the best scope for your gun. It all comes back to how you are going to utilize the gun. The style and dimensions of the gun will determine mounting options. The hunter's experience can help decide where to begin on the magnification. Imagine a hunter who isn't experienced trying to hold a high magnification scope at a the distance of long range. It's nearly impossible unless the gun is secured with sandbags or an arm rest. So for ease of use an optical scope with a lower magnification is the most convenient to begin with. The range of the shots that are made determines the required magnification. Most scopes in the range of 3 to 4X will be enough to comfortably observe and hit the target. A few of the competition 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. As always, the scope should be absolutely assured of its waterproofness and durability for the rest of your life. There are a lot of options out on the market for scopes, and when the trophy is up on display the extra money paid for quality will seem well worth it in hindsight. Happy shooting!