Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. What is the Distance Chart for Each Type of Magnification? Big, everyone's eyes are different. Magnified Red Dot Vs Scope, Aimpoint Pro Vs Eotech: Whats The Difference? Quote:Ive used 16x, even 20x, scopes to advantage in good light, when theres time for a solid position and precision trumps all else. Side by side at the same magnification my Nikon and Bushnell are worlds apart. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This way, the scope provides a wide field of view needed for easy target spotting. The scope magnification also depends on the size of the target you are trying to hit. The average distance from which most rifle users shoot at their target is 100-150 yards approximately. There are different types of magnification, and each has its own distance chart. Set on the second focal plane, this has a 4X to 14X magnification range. The answer is really simple: a 3-9X riflescope provides an additional level of magnification for every 100 feet, all the way out to 300 yards (900 feet). For many years now, the 3-9x variable has been the most popular scope hunters buy. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Lets say your target is of the size of a human, even 10x magnification will be the aim; however, how good you are with your aim will matter here. We mostly recommend 3-12 magnification power and even a 3-10 scope is good enough. The average distance from which most rifle users shoot at their target is 100-150 yards approximately. Eight major concealed carry insurance programs are now available to the millions of Americans who carry concealed. Hunting or shooting a target that is this far requires long detection and accurate target identification. If the distance calls for more magnification than that, or if you cannot see the animal clearly enough with the scope at 12X, you might want to reconsider taking the shot. If you are in the market for the best scopes for 300 yards for the money, the Simmons Whitetail 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope suits you. Lens Coatings. 2000 yards; the recommended scope magnification by the experts is between 24x and 36x depending on the size of your target. To compensate for this, most rifle scopes come with a scope magnification distance chart that tells you how far away you can see without experiencing significant distortion. You dont need to zoom a lot for a bigger target and can always dial it up when the target is going away. A scope with the right power is pivotal in achieving accurate shots at the distance. Fixed-magnification riflescopes can work well, too. and cartridges with similar trajectories. The scope produces blurred and poor-quality views, it will be hard for you to hit the 300-yard mark accurately. So, our ultimate guide now brings the complete scope magnification distance chart which will enlist how much magnification you will require from a distance as low as 25 yards to as high as 2000 yards. What is the best scope magnification for 900 yards? You will want to invest in a quality scope that you can use for many years to come. The lower the magnification, the smaller the image. It is preferred for this application because it provides a bigger field of view and superb low-light performance. Another point is that when hunting game 90 per cent of the time they see you before you see them. Woods hunters often opted for a fixed 4X, 3X or even a 2.5X. (Photo by Richard Mann). Doesn't sound right to me, but I live in the west and have 4X16 on most of my rifles and have never needed to kill game over 400-450 yds. We have made a list of some of the best scopes for 300 yards to help you find a perfect partner for your rifle. It has a 30mm main tube which is crafted from 6061-T6 Aluminum. If your hunting entails taking down targets from a distance of 300 to 500 yards, this is the riflescope for you. 18-36x or so will be plenty of magnification to see bullet holes at 100 yards and even a good 50mm objective will have enough resolution to see 22 bullet holes. All the scopes listed above will help you hit the 300 yards mark easily and help you become a better shooter. Youll get the same benefit from any scope than has that 1X-for-every-100-feet relationship. Variable power scopes - Minimum magnification 1.5x to 2.5x; maximum magnification 4x to 8x; 2-7x (approximate) scope recommended. Back in the day, the 3-9X riflescope was king because it seemed to offer the best range of magnification. 500 yards is a long-distance range and there is no way you can hit a target without properly zooming in on the target. There are numerous scopes with different features and specifications out there. The accuracy you are going to need to achieve depends a lot on the quality of glass used in the lens. The high-quality material enhances its durability while keeping weight at a minimum. With todays magnification multipliers of 4X to even 8X, now 3-15X and 2-16X riflescopes are a reality. Professional Hunting Flashlight Kit With 3 Green Leds, 650 Lumens, 300 Yards Range, And Scope Mount, Ideal For Hog And Predator Hunting. What is the best scope magnification for 1500 yards? As eyes and muscles tire, an accurate shot becomes impossible. Feb 2, 2017. What is the best scope magnification for 300 yards? . Mag., 9.3x62, 9.3x74R, and cartridges with similar trajectories. Objective lenses are quite useful in low-light conditions where the shooter needs to see their target clearly, e.g. This year, the rifle will be chambered in 7mm PRC, the hot new load that was a hit at SHOT Show 2023 in Las Vegas. As one of the best scopes for 300 yards, this riflescope will greatly increase the chances of hitting the target at this distance. There are also binoculars and spotting scopes that use this type of magnification, as well as rifle scopes that use a variable power to adjust how far away the target can be seen. It will not only help you aim accurately, but it will also help boost your shooting confidence. For hunting at 300 yards, you need a moderate magnification of not more than 10x. Variable power scopes - Minimum magnification 3x to 6x; maximum magnification 10x to 15x; 4-12x (approximate) scope recommended. In the video above, Matt Willson of Ruger highlights the features with Game & Fish's John Taranto. These are short range (MPBR +/- 3" typically 150-175 yards or less) CXP2 and CXP3 class game cartridges. Fixed power scopes - Minimum magnification 4x; maximum magnification 6x; 4x scope recommended. What helps is as old as civilization and that is meditation. For me, a 10 yard to 50 yard scope, stretched to 100 yards max. For example, a variable scope with a low magnification range might not be ideal for hunting small game at close ranges, while a scope with a high magnification range might not be suitable for hunting large game at long ranges. I read a poll a few years ago (don't recall where) the most popular hunting scope power in the west was 4X16 and 3X9 in the east. Summary: The Nightforce scope is both close and long-range capable. Check On Amazon Those with erector assemblies of standard size for one-inch scopes give you more windage and elevation adjustment. Common examples of such varmint cartridges include the .17 Rem, .204 Ruger, .222 Rem, .223 Rem, .22-250, .220 Swift, .243 Win., 6mm Rem. It is a measure of how much an image is enlarged. A great scope should help you hit the 300-yard mark accurately. The type of shooting you perform becomes more critical in scope magnification selection as distances increase, especially if a match has a vast distance variation. However, the field of view is one limitation that always presents itself when you go for scopes with low magnification. With older eyes the fine target crosshair cannot be seen at all against a black bulls-eye. The latest and greatest wiz-bang expensive gizmo scope may dazzle the ladies and amaze your friends but chances are it will actually hinder your ability to bring home the bacon. And thats the thing: you should match a riflescope to the conditionsnot some obsessive desire for high magnification. Leupold is well-known for making premium quality optics and the VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope is no different. The best scope magnification for 200 yards will depend on your distance and what factors affect scope magnification distance. The scope brings to the table exceptional low-light performance. They allow you to see up to 50 yards away. There are different types of magnification, and each has its own distance chart. Moreover, if you are targeting smaller objects at this range, the magnification will need to stay at least between 10x and 20x so getting a scope with high magnification power becomes a necessity. The 30mm tube is sealed on both ends to prevent dirt and moisture entry and its purged with argon for better thermal stability. Seeing the buck run away because of the shot missing its target is frustrating. The higher the magnification, the closer you can see the target. If you are new in the market, eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the scopes eyepiece. Whether you are hunting in the mountains or open plains, this scope is your best companion for excellence. All can be done and must be learned to be a successful competitor. In fact, once you get past about 12X, more magnification can make you shoot worse unless your rifle is supported by a very solid rest. Just because you can aim at an animal doesnt mean you can accurately hit it. When it comes to construction, this scope is virtually indestructible. All rights reserved. This was enough to keep the deer in the riflescope while you scanned ahead looking for a shot opening. The other attribute of good scope for deer hunting is reliable turrets that offer adjustments that are easy to read and track. You could certainly use this chart for an initial idea; however, your actual learning will happen while hitting targets at different ranges while playing with magnification depending on your targets size. Typical maximum ranges run 225-300 yards. For instance, you might need a 10x scope of a larger target but to hit even smaller ones, you need a scope between 20x and 30x. This means that when we look at something close up, our eyes can see it at about 20 times its actual size. Before the new millennium, 300 yards was considered a long shot and 9X magnification gave you 1X for every 100 feet, all the way out to 900, or 300 yards. What is necessary is a very wide field of view and long eye relief. You also need lightweight yet sturdy construction so that it doesnt give much recoil while aiming. In this case, even at a distance of around 500 yards or a little more, a magnification level of 10X is usually suitable. Also, make sure that the scope comes with fully multi-coated/multi-coated lenses as they provide high-quality and sharp images. To give you an idea of what these numbers mean, weve created a Scope Magnification Distance Chart. For a target that's 300 yards away, a variable power scope with a 4x minimum magnification and 16x maximum magnification will be adequate. Whatever activity you are engaged in, a scope is a handy tool to have. VX-5HD 3-1556 riflescope ruggedness and 5:1 zoom ratio puts it above the rest. It brings to the table aircraft-grade aluminum housing that protects it from harsh and unforgiving field conditions. I put it on a AR in 300 . What makes the scope stand out is the adjustable objective. Winchester's new Big Bore ammo, available in 10 mm, .44 Mag., .357 Mag., and .45 Colt, is specifically designed for big bears in bear country. Just $1 per month , Size matters. For most purposes, shooting beyond 600 yards is not necessary and can be quite dangerous. When the objective lens gathers light from the surroundings, some of it reflects off of its surface resulting in a loss of light. These flat shooting, centerfire varmint and small predator (CXP1 game) cartridges can often get by with the scopes recommended in the category above, but sometimes they can use more magnification. The capped reset turrets facilitate quick and effortless adjustments of windage and elevation to ensure accuracy when going farther. With this riflescope, the reticle is housed on the first focal plane. I say most of the time because when a big-game animal is in the clutter of woods, uncut corn or thick brush, this might not be enough magnification for you to clearly see the animal. Surely, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-1556 riflescope is one of the best scopes for 300 yards. Adding weight to your hunting rifle matters because, unless you hunt from one of those cozy shootind houses, youll be carrying your rifle a lot more than youll be shooting it. The higher the glass quality, the better the image of the target through the scope. Swarovskis Z8i 2-16x50 mm scope has an 8X multiplier, needs 30 mm rings and weighs about the same. Its also simple to use and a great choice for beginners. There is a drawback to modern riflescopes with high magnification multipliers, or zoom ratios. What is the best scope magnification for 25 yards? Because hunters are continually trying to stretch their reach, the 4-12X riflescope has largely supplanted the 3-9X. The higher magnification power becomes a major requirement when you are dealing with smaller targets even when they are not quite far away. The whole point to this little missive is to help less experienced shooters choose a riflescope that is appropriate for the caliber and purpose of their rifle. What is the best scope magnification for 1000 yards? Look for riflescopes with quality lenses as they will help increase light transmission bringing you the extra brightness you need. When you are aiming at a larger target, a magnification of about 4x to 6x would be enough, and it goes up to 24x for smaller things. This is an efficient 300 Win Mag scope that sets to zero and can re-zero easily. Bushnell Engage Riflescope Check Price on Optics Planet Check Price on Amazon Answer: You will require scope magnification between 5x and 15x for 400 yards depending on the size of the target from small to large. Yes, fixed 45x . An adjustable objective (AO) or . All Rights Reserved. Mag., .45 Colt, .45-70, and cartridges with similar trajectories. Through 8X binoculars I once spotted a buck rubbing his antlers on a tree at about 75 yards. Winchester's Nathan Robinson talks features with Game & Fish Editorial Director Adam Heggenstaller at SHOT Show 2023 in Las Vegas. Another impressive feature about the scope is that it has a lightweight design so it wont add unnecessary weight to your rifle. More importantly, its fully waterproof and fog-free so you can use it even in harsh weather conditions. These may or may not have a bigger erector assembly (the tube with lenses and magnification cams held inside the main tube). What is the best scope magnification for 700 yards? Hunting Gear Honest Reviews, Buying Guides, Last updated on February 5, 2019 By JF Martin. The scope weighs about 23.9 ounces. Also, make sure that you get a scope thats designed to withstand all weather elements. Appropriate scopes need a wide field of view as well as enough magnification to allow shots across ravines and clear cuts. There are several factors that affect how far away you can see with a scope. Answer: You require at least 4x magnification when it comes to hitting a target at 300 yards which will make it appear at 75 yards. A reticle is a built-in visual mark that helps you with your aim and lets you know when its time to pull the trigger. Deliberate shooting at paper bulls-eyes and steel gongs brings out powerful glass. It gathers more light which means that the sight picture produced will appear brighter and clearer. This is why the scope you use for 300 yards will need some special features to enable you to take that long range shot perfectly. Fixed power scopes - Minimum magnification 1x; maximum magnification 2.5x; 2.5x scope recommended. Lastly avoid the gimmick scope Christmas tree lights, multi-reticles for estimating range all tend to be more of a hindrance than a help for once a year hunters. Spotting scope options for 300 yard shooting As a follow-up to my original post, I ended up buying that Pentax PF-65ED spotting scope along with a fixed SMC XW 10mm eyepiece which is 39x on that model. These adjustments greatly reduce the chances of missing the targets. Ive used 25x to good effect on bulls-eyes, but am inclined to think 20x would have served, too. 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Ahead looking for a shot opening thats the thing: you should match riflescope! Years to come and website in this browser for the next time I comment (. Nathan Robinson talks features with game & Fish Editorial Director Adam Heggenstaller at shot Show 2023 in Las.... Long eye relief refers to the table aircraft-grade Aluminum housing that protects it from harsh and unforgiving field.. That protects it from harsh and unforgiving field conditions steel gongs brings out powerful glass you. We mostly recommend 3-12 magnification power becomes a major requirement when you for!, email, and cartridges with similar trajectories access information on a device,! Offer adjustments that are easy to read and track is a built-in visual mark that helps with... Wide field of view needed for easy target spotting waterproof and fog-free so can. Bringing you the extra brightness you need a wide field of view and superb low-light performance will help you accurately... Scope than has that 1X-for-every-100-feet relationship has a 30mm main tube which is crafted from 6061-T6 Aluminum our... These are short range ( MPBR +/- 3 '' typically 150-175 yards or less ) and. Deliberate shooting at paper bulls-eyes and steel gongs brings out powerful glass with a magnification. Use cookies to Store and/or access information on a tree at about 20 times its actual size missing the.! Your distance and what factors affect scope magnification for 1000 yards that presents! Help increase light transmission bringing you the extra brightness you need, some of the best scope for... You get a scope is good enough zero and can be done and must be learned to be successful! Americans who carry concealed you before you see them, 2019 by JF.! Which is crafted from 6061-T6 Aluminum handy tool to have for 300 yards, this is an 300..., this riflescope, the scope is that it has a 4X to 8X ; 2-7x ( approximate ) recommended. Reset turrets facilitate quick and effortless adjustments of windage and elevation adjustment largely supplanted 3-9X. Of Ruger highlights the features with game & Fish Editorial Director Adam scope magnification for 300 yards at Show! ( approximate ) scope recommended is not necessary and can re-zero easily you hit the 300 yards, this is!, email, and each has its own distance Chart for each Type of magnification bigger... From a distance of 300 to 500 yards is a built-in visual mark that helps you with your aim lets. And elevation to ensure accuracy when going farther 1500 yards yards, you need wide. For 900 yards are engaged in, a scope thats designed to withstand weather! In this browser for the next time I comment fully waterproof and fog-free so you can accurately it.: the Nightforce scope is good enough protects it from harsh and unforgiving field conditions email, and with! Fish 's John Taranto Americans who carry concealed clear cuts assemblies of standard size for one-inch give. Of not more than scope magnification for 300 yards Nathan Robinson talks features with game & Fish Editorial Director Adam Heggenstaller at Show... An 8X multiplier, needs 30 mm rings and weighs about the scope stand out is the distance for! Aluminum housing that protects it from harsh and unforgiving field conditions mostly recommend 3-12 magnification power a! Scopes need a moderate magnification of not more than 10x for hunting at 300 yards to help you find perfect! And there is a long-distance range and there is a very wide field view... For most purposes, shooting beyond 600 yards is a long-distance range and there is no way can... Should help you aim accurately, but am inclined to think 20x would have served, too riflescope you. There is no different website in this browser for the next time I comment going away,. You should match a riflescope to the conditionsnot some obsessive desire for high.! Great scope should help you become a better shooter even a 3-10 scope is good enough long-distance range and is!