A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing a Good Rifle Optic

Don’t be left guessing when looking downrange

There are plenty of different attachments when it comes to customizing your firearms, from suppressors to slings, and in this case, optics, more specifically, we are speaking of rifle optics. Choosing the right rifle optic can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're a hunter, competitive shooter, or tactical operator looking to make some accurate shots. Rifle optics are pretty essential pieces of equipment, but the only issue is that there are so many available. 

With a myriad of options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. This guide will help you navigate the key factors to consider when selecting a rifle optic that best suits your needs.

How to Choose the Best Rifle Optic

Now, when it comes to finding a good rifle optic, there is a checklist that you have to go through to make an educated decision. You don’t want to just buy the cheapest option, or the first one that you see, as this can lead to a variety of difficulties. Check out what it takes to choose a good rifle optic below. 

1. Define Your Purpose

The first step in choosing a rifle optic is understanding its intended use. Are you hunting in dense woods or open plains? Are you going room to room and shooting at close-range targets? Or maybe you are fully camouflage taking shots at long-distance ones? Different activities require different features in an optic, and you need to figure out what exactly you will be using the optic for, before purchasing it. Here are a few different things to consider when defining your purpose for a rifle optic.

• Hunting: Versatility is key. Consider a variable power scope (e.g., 3-9x magnification) for adaptability in various environments. Even something that is equipped with thermal capabilities can be good, as it helps to identify your targets.
• Long-Range Shooting: Look for higher magnification (e.g., 6-24x) and features like adjustable turrets for precise elevation and windage adjustments.
• Tactical or Home Defense: Opt for red dot sights or low power variable optics (LPVO) with quick target acquisition and wide field of view.

2. Magnification

Magnification is one of the most critical aspects of a rifle scope. You don’t want something that is a 1x magnifier if your targets are hundreds of yards out. But, you don’t want something that is 10x magnified if you are shooting in close quarters. The magnification you need depends largely on the range of your shooting.

• Low Magnification (1-4x): Ideal for close-quarters and moving targets. Offers a broader field of view.
• Medium Magnification (5-9x): Suitable for general hunting and mid-range shooting.
• High Magnification (10x and above): Best for long-range precision shooting where identifying and hitting small targets at a distance is essential.

3. Objective Lens Diameter

The objective lens diameter (measured in millimeters) determines how much light the scope can gather, affecting the clarity and brightness of the image.

• Small (20-30mm): Lighter and more compact but gathers less light.
• Medium (30-40mm): A balanced choice, offering good light transmission without being too bulky.
• Large (50mm and above): Provides excellent brightness, especially in low-light conditions, but can be heavier and may require higher mounting rings.

4. Reticle Type

Reticles, or crosshairs, come in various designs, each suited to different types of shooting. Unfortunately, choosing a rifle scope isn’t like a video game where you can really customize your reticles to ridiculous shapes, but there are some different options to choose from.

• Duplex: Simple and versatile, ideal for hunting.
• Mil-Dot: Allows for range estimation and bullet drop compensation, preferred for tactical and long-range shooting.
• BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator): Pre-calibrated to compensate for bullet drop over distance, useful for quick adjustments without manual calculations.
• Illuminated: Improves visibility in low-light conditions, beneficial for dawn, dusk, or nighttime shooting.

5. Lens Coating

Lens coatings enhance light transmission, reduce glare, and improve clarity. Optics may have:

• Coated: A single layer on at least one lens surface.
• Fully Coated: A single layer on all air-to-glass surfaces.
• Multicoated: Multiple layers on at least one lens surface.
• Fully Multicoated: Multiple layers on all air-to-glass surfaces, offering the best performance.

6. Durability and Construction

Durability is crucial, especially if you plan to use your rifle in harsh environments. The last thing you want is to have a cheap rifle scope that falls apart or cracks while you are trying to use it. Consider the following:

• Waterproof and Fogproof: Sealed to prevent water ingress and filled with nitrogen or argon to prevent fogging.
• Shockproof: Able to withstand the recoil of your rifle and rough handling.
• Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum offers a good balance of strength and weight.

7. Adjustment Controls

Some rifle scopes can be pretty difficult to adjust, so when you are trying to zero them in it may not be as easy as you’d like. Look for easy-to-use, precise adjustment controls for windage and elevation. Turrets should be:

Resettable: To quickly return to zero.

Tactile and Audible: To ensure precise adjustments by feel or sound without taking your eyes off the target.

8. Parallax Adjustment

For long-range shooting, parallax adjustment is essential to ensure the reticle stays aligned with the target at various distances. Some scopes offer side or objective parallax adjustments.

9. Price and Warranty

While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive option, you should balance cost with your needs. High-end scopes offer premium features, but many mid-range scopes provide excellent performance. Also, consider the warranty and customer service reputation of the manufacturer.

Rifle Scopes Wrap Up

Choosing a good rifle optic is not as simple as just picking one up off the shelf and throwing it on your gun, it involves considering your specific needs, whether it's for hunting, tactical use, or long-range shooting. Focus on the key features such as magnification, objective lens size, reticle type, and durability. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision that enhances your shooting accuracy and overall experience. Remember, the best optic is one that suits your particular requirements and helps you achieve your shooting goals.