Choosing the Proper Air Rifle Scope to Improve Shooting Accuracy

Scopes for air rifles are often a confusing subject for both seasoned hobbyists and newbies alike. However, there are some terms and basic considerations that can help make the process of choosing the best air rifle scope much simpler. Choosing the right scope can take your shooting accuracy to the next level.

Since there are so many types of air rifle scopes from which to choose and each has its own special features, the first thing to do is consider the basics. Simply put, a scope will magnify the image that is being targeted and will put you and the object on the same visual plane. It works by using lenses set inside the scope that bend the light that enters in order to make the image bigger.

Air rifle scopes are special because they are designed to be able to withstand the recoil and vibrations of an air rifle. A firearm scope should not be used on an air rifle.

Types of Air Rifle Scopes

There are two main types of air rifle scopes, a fixed scope and a variable scope. The fixed scope is set to one magnification and no adjustments can be made to it. A fixed scope will be denoted similar to this: 4×15 or 4×32. This means that the object is magnified four times. One of the advantages of a fixed scope is that once it is sighted in there is little adjustment needed. The obvious disadvantage of this type of scope is that the image cannot be magnified any more than the set magnification.What-is-a-good-air-rifle-scope-AR-15-e1433403195325

Variable scopes allow images to be magnified at different settings, typically between 3 to 15 times. The number will be denoted similar to 3-9×32. This means that the images can be magnified between 3 to 9 times and the 32 refers to the objective lens.

Objective Sizes

When looking at scopes the last number specified refers to the objective size. For example, if the scope states that it is 4-16×50, the 50 refers to the 50 mm objective lens or the opening of the lens. Objective size is important for a couple of reasons. First, the bigger the lens size the stronger the magnification is going to be. Secondly, larger objectives allow more light into the scope, which provides a picture that is brighter and clearer.

Choosing the Right Scope for your Needs

Now that the basics are out of the way there are a few things that should be considered when picking out a scope. First, decide the type of hunting that you do most. For hunting small rodents at close ranges a fixed scope of 4×32 is ideal. For hunting larger varmints, a variable scope will be best.

Next, decide on the quality of scope that you want and then buy one that is a bit better. It is always better to get something that is a bit nicer so that you do not regret your purchase.

Overall, choosing the right air rifle scope may seem daunting at first, but if you take the time to choose the right one to meet your needs you will find that your aim will improve greatly over time.

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