Rifle Scope Reticle : First Focal Plane or Second Focal Plane

The reticle of a rifle scope is usually located in the First Focal Plane or Second Focal Plane. The major difference between both planes is the behaviour of the reticle when adjusting the magnification of the rifle scope. So, they both have various applications they can be used for. In this rifle scope FFP vs SFP comparison article, we will explain both planes and the applications they are best suited for. Let’s get into it. 

First Focal Plane

First Focal Plane is also known as Front Focal Plane. It is used to indicate the reticle’s position. FFP reticle lies at the magnifying lens’ front inside the scope erector line. Long-range shooters generally prefer first focal plane scopes. The reticle a shooter’s eyes see when adjusting an FFP scope’s magnification changes in size. As the magnification level increases, the reticle becomes larger and vice-versa. This simply implies that the value of the unit of measure of each hash mark, MOA or MIL, remains the same irrespective of the magnification’s current setting. 

Today, FFP scopes are becoming increasingly popular among shooters, especially hunters, who shoot at targets at long distances. It’s a huge advantage regarding speed to know the value of the hash marks remains the same in all situations. However, this speed also has a disadvantage: the changes in the size of the reticle may become too large at some distances associated with magnification. This can, in turn, make the shot placement complex. Nonetheless, scenarios like these can be solved using an illuminated reticle. 

Pros And Cons of First Focal Plane

First focal planes have their advantages and disadvantages. We will highlight them in this section. 

Pros

  • An FFP scope has a constant and steady subtension.
  • Increased accuracy possibility. 
  • It can conveniently hold over at any power. 
  • An FFP scope is suitable for long range shooting. 
  • Its reticle is visible at high power. 

Cons 

  • Reticle becomes difficult to see at low power. 
  • More expensive than second focal planes. 

Second Focal Plane

The Second Focal Plane is also known as the Rear Focal Plane. It is also known as the reticle’s position. Unlike the FFP reticle, SFP is located behind the magnifying lens. However, it’s in front of the rifle scope’s eyepiece. SFP scope is the most common reticle position preferred by numerous hunters. This is because the SFP reticle is how numerous shooters expect a scope’s reticle should be. The SFP reticle remains at the same size through all magnification levels, making it incredibly easier to see at every range. However, this comes at a price. Since the reticle doesn’t change in size, its hash marks are unstable in what they denote. 

The hash marks depict various values associated with the magnification when the scope is not at full magnification. For example, if the full magnification of a rifle scope is 1 MOA, then hash marks depict twice the default value, 2 MOA, at half of the original magnification. This becomes an added issue for the shooter. This is because they would have to do some mental math when using the hash marks. 

Pros And Cons 

The Second Focal Plane Scope also has its advantages and disadvantages. We will explain some of them in this section. 

Pro 

  • The reticle is easily visible at all powers. 
  • Crosshair visibility in low powers. 
  • Second Focal Planes are more affordable than First Focal Planes.  
  • Crosshair visibility in low light. 

Cons 

  • Subtension changes constantly throughout the power range. 
  • Not suited for long range shooting. 

First Focal Plane VS Second Focal Plane: Which Should You Use? 

It takes more than preferences before you choose between an FFP and SFP reticle. You must also consider some crucial factors such as how you intend to use the scope and magnification requirements. In this section, we will discuss various ways both can be used and the one that takes the win for each one. 

Hunting

There are two crucial factors you must consider when choosing between the FFP and SFP reticle; terrain and magnification. First Focal Plane scopes are suitable for high power and mountainous, open country areas. On the other hand, Second Focal Plane scopes are low magnification and brush, timber, or Midwest animal hunting. 

Normally, 4-16x and 3-9x are excellent configurations for numerous hunting conditions. This is because they can cover a lot of ground. The reticle’s visibility that remains the same in lowlight conditions at low powers gives the Second Focal Plane scope an edge over the First Focal Plane. The SFP’s normal reticle visibility is also used by shooters in thick timber and heavy brush environments. The crosshairs on the FFP optic can get too small and become difficult to see, especially in terrains. 

It’s, however, notable to mention that the FFP scope is also good for hunting. It ensures precise holdovers at any magnification level. If you constantly hunt with more than 12x magnification, you can maximize this feature to its full possibilities. This is perfect for open country, long-range, and unpredictable terrains. It is less than ideal to dial in magnification to achieve the calibration power to use at the adequate holdover point.

Finally, the last legal light’s last thirty minutes is usually the perfect time to fill a tag. Resolution, clarity, and brightness are best attained on low powers. This makes the SFP scope a better option for hunting since the FFP plane has issues with reticle visibility in low power and low light. 

Combat 

All high-powered scopes used for tactical, combat, or home defense circumstances will have their reticles located in the first or second focal planes. CQB performance is crucial for numerous professional situations. The SFP optic is easily visible, constant, and suitable for CQB combat. 

There is usually no need to hold even when magnification is changed within 250 yards, at least on a one-man target size. Numerous LE (Law Enforcement) combats are incredibly close. So, LE sniper situations are usually closer than people think. You can use both FFP and SFP scopes for tactical and combat use. However, SFP will function well for close to mid ranges with a 50 to 100-yard zero. 

FFP optics also have their advantages when it comes to combat and tactical use. They are significantly useful on magnified reticles for fast corrections or when holding over and follow-up shots over a distance. However, it all comes down to the type of speed or distance requirements and combat. 

Do snipers use First Focal Planes or Second Focal Planes? It’s general knowledge that veteran snipers prefer to use the fixed 10x power scope. However, it also depends on the law enforcement agency; local or military police. The budget and preference are also huge determining factors when it comes to choosing a reticle focal plane. So, both focal planes can be used for combat. 

Long Range 

Long range shooting usually implies a huge dependence on the reticle and high magnification. It doesn’t matter if it’s competitive shooting or hunting, the FFP scope is the best option for long-range performance. 

Undoubtedly, FFP optics offer numerous benefits since they are the best scopes for long-range shooting. One of the benefits you get is that you can optimally use a complex reticle. With numerous windage and elevation holdovers that will constantly be precise irrespective of magnification, the FFP optic ensures straightforward and fast decisions. This also boosts the shooter’s confidence in decreasing POI shifts when adjusting the power. 

Another benefit of the FFP scope for long-range shooting is that the reticle becomes bigger as you increase its power. This makes it incredibly easier to see the hash marks, crosshairs or/and dots. However, the only disadvantage is that the subtension of the FFP reticle can block significant areas when hunting small targets, making it harder to make shots. 

SFP scopes will perform excellently well for bench shooters who are not on the clock and are content with shooting from maximum power. You will also need quality turrets and glass. This will ensure the magnification is easily visible irrespective of the magnification. However, the FFP scope is the best solution for long-range shooting. 

Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) 

 LPVO scopes are an ideal option for tactical carbines and are close to mid-range optics. The red dot ability and 1x magnification are some of its must-have features. However, its low variable magnification makes it a flexible optic. In most cases, the SFP is recommended but the FFP can also offer advantages regarding distance. 

FFP reticles on LPVO scopes are better suited for shooters who engage targets at varied and multiple distances. It’s suitable for military personnel on the front line and competition shooters. Using the FFP on an LPVO also ensures fast and precise shots using holdovers. It’s notable to mention that FFP optics with high-grade LPVO scopes would be fast to use and visible in low powers. FFP reticles are commonly found in 1-10x or 1-8x LPVO scopes. 

However, in numerous instances, LPVO scope users are usually more attracted to SFP optics. They are also the optics that are commonly found on 1-6x and 1-4x scopes. Even when shooting out of specific circumstances like over 250 yards, there’s still enough time to max out or dial in the power for precise holdovers. This makes the SFP reticle a better option for LPVO scopes. 

Final Thoughts 

When it comes to choosing between the FFP and SFP scope, the intended application should be a priority over preference. You should consider the SFP scope alone if you are on a budget since it is more affordable than the FFP scope. However, beyond the budget, ensure the scope you choose is right for the intended purpose. This rifle scope FFP Vs SFP comparison has been able to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of both optics. We also explained some of the applications each scope is best suited for. With this rifle scope FFP Vs SFP comparison, choosing the right scope for you has been made easier.

Bonus: Inforgraphic For FFP and SFP Comparision ( Source : Accurate Ordnance)

Continue Reading

Calibers for Beginners: .308 Winchester Rifle Ammunition

The .308 Winchester is the one of the most popular rifle ammunition after the .223 Remington. The .308 has had a reputation of valuable quality for decades, and this is well deserving. Shooters who experienced the AR revolution that preferred an all-round cartridge chose the .308 because of its innumerable bullet options and its increased power. Most people picked the .223, 9mm, .308 Win and .45 ACP instead or a combination of these rifles. The .308 hasn’t attained a similar standard like the widespread AR-15 with its plug-structure. Some manufacturers are likely to have their design for AR-style rifles with chambers for .308 or the AR-10. It is also applicable to the series of differences in bolt action for generations. That aside, there are lots of independent rifle options you can choose. So, what will a new shooter gain from the .308 Win? The distinction between the .308 Win. and other rifles indicate why it is an excellent option for newbies. 

Source: https://www.ellettbrothers.com/

The .308 Winchester offers a great ballistic platform, good accuracy and more equilibrium. Until recently, the .308 Winchester caliber or 7,62x51mm was the most popular option for the military service round. 

A small historical background of the .308 Winchester ammunition is that it was first offered for sales to civilians before the military indicated an interest in the rifle. 

A beginner should know that a rifle isn’t just any typical instrument, it’s a different ball game altogether. In highlighting the features of the .308 rifle, we’ll consider the benefits it offers to a newbie in the shooting field. A new shooter can benefit the following using the—308 rifle ammunition. 

Widespread availability: The .308 rifle ammunition is standard everywhere and anywhere and is a trusted rifle brand. It’s effortless to get a good shell for your rifle that offers accuracy. 

Sufficient power for different hunting species: The .308 rifle ammunition is a sturdy cartridge that can take bullets more than 20gr and is effective for hunting. Many ammunition options are spanning from long-range match loads to import rifles that cost several dollars. There’s a .308 rifle with an answer to all your hunting needs. It is also easy with a long history of use in competition and match shooting. Therefore, there are lots of good hand load options with combinations of powder, bullets and brass. 

It has tested and Trusted weapon platforms: A good number of quality .308 rifles have a traceable military origin. The Remington 700 was used as a sniper rifle dating back to the Vietnam War and is still in use today.  

Match loads: It’s easy to buy .308 rifles as they are readily available and also efficient. For the .308 rifle, hunting ammo is the most prevalent type available. It is one of the commonest cartridges for game hunting, and many users subscribe to this rifle. The best products in this category are Remington, Winchester, Barnes and Hornady. 

Bulk loads: There is much military ammo available from different sources such as Wolf, Lake City, Tula, Bear etc., which make affordable ammo. There are different types of rifles chambered in .308, and they perform other functions. 

But what are the disadvantages of the .308 rifle for a beginner? 

The excellent .308 rifle has some downsides to it as a beginner. They include: 

.308 rifles vary in size: Some .308 rifle ammunition are larger and heavier than their counterparts, but with advancement, they are becoming lighter in weight. The result is a .308 that’s comparable to 5.56mm options. 

The recoil is more significant: The .308 belongs in a similar recoil group as other rifles like 7.62x54R and .30-06. These rounds lack a fearsome recoil but are way more than beginners. Thus,  new shooters can’t take on this rifle easily while shooting. 

The .308 rifle is more expensive: This ammunition is higher in price than smaller calibers and can also incur costs, especially when it’s in higher volume. Their prices are comparable to other rifles in the same category, but they have a distinct price difference between the AR-15 and AR-10. Also have difference the scope for ar-15 and scope for ar-10.

Choosing .308 Factory Match Ammo

How do you choose the best .308 ammo?

The best ammo for your .308 rifle is hand-loaded ammo that will suit your shooting style and needs as a beginner. 

What is “Match” Ammo?

“Match” ammo is another word for factory-loaded ammo with a bit more accuracy. It implies that the ammo was loaded and tested to build accurate ammo, the best possible. That’s to say that the manufacturer noticed some ammo was more accurate than others. However, the industry has no standard, as match means different things for a different manufacturer. 

Takeaway

The .308 is a long-range cartridge and also qualifies as a bolt action rifle with its setup. You can’t go wrong with a .308 cartridge, even as a beginner. Although there are new calibers, you can’t ignore the .308 rifle for a beginner because it can perform everything required of a gun. It is also widely available and very affordable. Get the best ammo for your rifle and enjoy the shooting experience. 

Continue Reading

HOW TO PICK A RED DOT SIGHT

This is going to be a guide to help you select one based on price durability, quality, and overall feature set on these different red dots. A lot of people are getting into the firearm shooting sports as well as using these for personal protection and they want to know what’s what as well as is it worth the price. 

Let’s dig into some popular models and overall just feel of different style red dots and reflex sights and talk about why you might want to select one over the other. This is a great idea because the market is flooded with a wide variety of red dots and reflex sights for your rifles ar-15s and air pistols

Starting from the cheapest style red dots to the more expensive style red dots.

BEST RED DOT SIGHT

BEST BUDGET

The first thing i want to talk about are those budget they’re truly budget red dots and that’s what i cut my teeth on and a lot of people will go to these red dots first.  They generally start around the 25 price point and work their way up to the 40 to 50 dollar price point and i’m going to label these in one category.  The representation i have from this category today is the Pinty red dot.  Now a lot of these budget red dots come with these picatinny mounts on the bottom and they sit really low to the rail system, meaning you’ll have to purchase an independent riser something like a UTG riser or something like that to lift it up to the height you want.  We talk a lot about co-witnessing red dots if you choose a one-inch riser, meaning a fairly high riser.  You’re going to have a lower one-third co-witness with your iron sights and if you choose about a 0.83 riser you’re going to have an absolute co-witness with your iron sights, meaning when your sights are flipped up the dot will be on the front sight post when you align everything up with a 0.83 riser and then again if you select a one inch riser your dot’s going to be a little bit higher and your post is going to be in the lower one third. 

These red dots are nice and a lot of them work but the issues you run into with these budget style red dots is mainly quality control in battery life as well as overall feature set.  I am not knocking these by any means. In fact i actually recommend a lot of these high value red dots, i really recommended this Pinty as well as the OTW,  the Hiram, the TWOD and the original field sport  i did the torture test on.  A lot of these can be found that are really durable but again the battery life can be an issue for some, as well as the image quality and the overall construction and quality control.  A lot of them advertise to be waterproof, some of them are, some of them aren’t. But this is a great option for overall range use to get something on your rifle just to begin shooting and have fun with, but i kind of stay away from these for personal defense because again the quality control issues and things like that.  But with that being said, if you get one you like it it’s reliable for you and it passed your test and evaluation and you feel comfortable with changing out the battery a lot, this is an absolutely great option for this price category.

ABOUT $100 TO UNDER $300

Now i’m going to transition over to about the hundred, two hundred and fifty dollar price point and i know that’s a rather large jump but as some of the intermediate red dots we’re going to be talking about, those will be those turnstile optics.

One thing i want to bring up while i have the Pinty here is you can see the emitter on the bottom and you can see that kind of interfering with your view.  You can also see a little bit of a hue but honestly this one is pretty good meaning the glass clarity. 

So when you talk about jumping from this turnstile optic up to that hundred dollar price range or 75 dollar price range, you’re gonna start getting into the AT3 tactical turnstile red dots, The Bushnell TRS 25 and one of my favorites is this Anderson red dot.  This again may have an elevated price point but what you’re looking at between this and the Pinty is a way better build quality, a lot longer battery life they use a different led diode and system, so you can get up to about 20,000 to 30,000 hours instead of the about 4,000 to 5,000 hours with the Pinty.  

You get a little bit better glass clarity and overall again, a better build quality it’s kind of hard to see but the emitters are also buried a little bit better.  And honestly if you’re talking about personal defense or range use these are definitely a better quality than the Pinty but the overall feature set is about the same, the same color brightness red dot, the same mode of operations. I tend to stay away from that intermediate price point if i can, i like to spend a little bit extra and go to a push button optic like we’re going to talk about with the Hollow Suns, the Sig Romeos and the Truglos.  I think it’s a much better step to go to that because they have a much wider feature set, but if you’re just not content with the quality control on one of the Pinty red dots, stepping it up to the AT3 Tactical red dot.  

BEST OVERALLS

The representation i’m going to use for this optics category is the Hollow Sun HS403B  but Sig has the Sig Romeo and Truglo also has a red dot that kind of compete with the Hollow Sun. Out of all of those i really do like the Hollow Sun. I’ve used a wide variety of them and they come in at a good price anywhere from 130 to 200 dollars for the traditional push button model. Now you’re going to see a wide variety of these red dots with different features, but a lot of the cool things about these is they have a nice side ceiling battery compartment, they’re fully waterproof and they will be waterproof, they have nice adjustment turrets, the dots automatically turn on, the glass is crystal clear, the emitter is buried and they overall function really well. They hold zero a lot better than some of those twenty and thirty dollar optics and you can truly depend on an optic on this category. This is where it transitions from range use to actual use for a personal defense or a duty use scenario, something like this is pretty slick. You’ve got a push button style optic on the top where you can adjust the brightness up or down, a shake awake technology a 50,000 hour battery life, something like this is pretty cool because you can mount it to a duty rifle or a personal defense rifle and when you go to pick up the rifle to engage your target, it automatically turns on and you don’t have to worry about fumbling buttons or turning a knob on this style optic. The other cool thing is it turns off the safe battery after it doesn’t detect motion for a certain amount of time.The differences in the Hollow Sun line where you can go all the way up to about 300 dollars that includes solar panels, protected turrets, a better build quality, better material quality and different style reticle features. But overall, if you’re looking for a good optic for that $150 price point, check out the very basic model of the Hollow Sun, the Sig romeo series or the Truglo series. Hollow Sun though seems to be my favorite out of these.

I get a lot of questions about a reflex style soght versus a tube style sight and these are the main differences. A reflex style sight has a large viewing window in a more open viewing window, whereas a tube style sight has a tube style. These seem to be more adorable than the reflex sights especially in the budget category, when you start spending over 300 dollars on a reflex style sight though, the durability is there. I would stay away from any reflex style sight and this is my humble opinion anyways. Under a hundred dollars, they seem to always fail on me or break on me, whereas a tube style red dot sight is very good for a hundred dollars at least when it comes to durability.

The reflex style sight offers a wider field of view and a wider field of view is nicer for engaging a target, this allows you to really kind of have a seamless transition, also if you move your head left or right you have a lot wider viewing angle than if you move the dot left or right. This allows you to not have your cheek placed quite as nicely on the rifle or have your head offset if you’re shooting around the car or in a personal defense situation, so you can see the dot longer and this helps you engage your target more because as long as the dots on the target, you’re going to hit your target within a slight variation. This allows you to have in under a stressful scenario in a three gun competition or a personal defense situation. A wider field of view to help you engage your target especially if you don’t have the proper cheek weld, the downfall though is you start to pay more for a quality one of these than you will for instance $150 – $300. The quality and durability is about the same on both of these optics but again you’re going to get a wide viewing angle but you’re going to pay for it.

With an led emitter on Hollow Sun reflex style sight, meaning it actually projects the led onto the screen. The problem with that is is you can block the emitter with dirt or debris which is a problem especially in a combat style optic. This one does have a solar panel which is nice a 50,000 hour battery life reticle selections, these are great options for a reflex style sight. But if you want to spend a little bit more, you can get a truly Holographic weapon sight. The Holographic weapon sight actually projects theirs with a laser, so it is much more crisp, the parallax meaning the adjustment left and right when you shift your optic is going to remain more true than on an led model style reflex sight, this one is completely enclosed so you can’t block the emitter with dirt and things like that, the downfall to a truly laser reflex style sight like an Eotech or some of the Vortex ones is the battery life is rather low you’re getting back down to about 1500 to 2000 hours again, something to consider and the price on this is quite substantial about $500.

I’m going to transition over now to the intermediate category of the tube style sights as well as talk about handgun reflex sights, i only want to bring these up because a lot of people i see put these on top of an AR-15 and they spend a lot of money on these to put them on an AR-9 and i feel like these are not worth the money on an ar-15, they’re primarily designed to be mounted to a handgun with an RMR cut and i feel like that is their place i would shy away from these micro reflex style sights on AR-15s. They don’t have the field of view, you’re paying extra so it can be mounted to a handgun but you’re not mounting it to a handgun, so i feel like you’re wasting your money if you pick up one of these for an AR-15, that is just my opinion.

Now let’s talk about that intermediate price point category and i’m going to call that intermediate price point category between the mid-range stuff and the top steer stuff of about $350 and pushing the limits to 400 and that’s where you start getting into the top tier Hollow Sun optics as well as some other good manufacturers like Trijicon. The Trijicon’s going to be a little bit more money and have a lower feature set but it’s going to be built like a tank and it’s going to be that trusted quality of Trijicon. Trijicon makes one with a slightly slightly larger front lens and rear lens than the traditional tube style dots which gives you a wider field of view but still protects.

The overall optic like a tube style dot versus the reflex style sight now these are very nice, but again you’re paying for that quality. They have a very long battery life, an easy to use operation protected turrets, they’re pretty slick. The Hollow HS530C does push the limits though even more, they include things like a kill flash, a solar panel, a titanium housing, an incredibly wide field of view, different reticle selections, a buried emitter, you are getting such a quality optic with very good drop and durability ratings a quick detach mount, a waterproof rating, all of this for right around that $350 price point or you can buy some of the military-grade tube style dots with the solar panels for right around $250 and i find they are %100 trustworthy.

CONCLUSION

I’m going to try to wrap all of this up because i know i’ve given you guys a lot of information. Where i draw the line between range use and actual duty use to trust your life with, starts at write about the Sig Romeo, the basic Hollow models and things like that with the auto on feature and the 50,000 hour battery life, that’s kind of my go-to.

I honestly shy away from things like the rotating anderson the at3 tactical the bushnell trs 25 because they don’t have that auto on feature and you have to crank the knob. It’s a little bit more difficult to engage your target rather quickly for a personal defense situation, but they do make quality optics and some of those other ones i mentioned are a little bit better than these basic budget ones.

If you had the extra money to spend and bump it up to about the $300 range, i would recommend either of these Hollow Suns 510C and HE530C-GR, and i’m really focusing on Hollow Sun because these are two of my favorite Hollow Sun options in this intermediate category. They come with solar panels, really long battery lifes, a wide field of view, quality construction and cutie mounts included in the box, and i’ve never had a Hollow Sun fail on me.

If i had to take it up to a top-tier optic for a truly personal combat style defensive use. Having a Trijicon MRO is a very nice option and honestly i don’t buy much of the Eotechs anymore. I’m not a fan of the battery life but i hope i explained a lot of different options and a wide variety of considerations when it comes to that glass clarity.

Continue Reading

17 HMR Rifles vs 17 HMR Handguns

17 HMR rifles are widely used for Varmint hunting and small game at mid-range. These rifles are preferred for small-game hunting for various reasons. They feature excellent bullet accuracy and velocity ideal for small games. The 17 HMR rifles were designed by Hornady with assistance from Marlin and Ruger hence the name HMR.

Buying a 17 HMR rifle looks like a great idea when hunting small game at 2000 yards. However, 17 HMR handguns are also great choices. So what is the best choice when deciding between 17 HMR rifles and 17 HMR handguns? For example, when hunting at longer ranges of let’s say 200 yards, you use the 17 HMR rifle and a quality 17 HMR scope.

However, when hunting small targets at short ranges, you can use the 17 HMR handguns. You can read a great article here more about optic for 17 HMR.

So deciding between 17 HMR rifles and 17 HMR handguns can be challenging for most shooters. In this article, we discuss these two under different categories and see which gun works best in different situations.

Portability

The Ruger 77/7 and the CZ 455 American are among the most common 17 HMR rifles on the market. They are styled action rifles with numerous modern features. These rifles are both extremely easy to carry since they feature fixed swivel mounts. This makes it easier to trek with them underbrush with ease. However, the HMR handguns are the obvious winner when you consider portability. This is pretty obvious because of their size.

Most of the 17 HMR rifles are revolves and easy to carry with the right sling. If portability is your main concern, then hangs are your ideal choice. However, portability is not a major difference since the rifles are also lightweight and extremely easy to carry.

Hunting

Both 17 HMR rifles and 17 HMR handguns are suitable for hunting small game. 17 HMR rifles have excellent speed and accuracy. This makes them suitable for small game hunting. You can be sure of hunting rabbits, raccoons, and possums at ranges of up to 200 yards. However, the rifles produce pretty high energies that can be too destructive when hunting chipmunks and squirrels. This is important especially when you want to preserve your kill. In such cases, 17 HMR handguns are the preferred choice. However, if you don’t look to preserve the kill, then rifles are great choices.

If you’re looking to hunt bigger game like deer or coyote, then you need excellent shooting skills. You need a hell of a shot at 50 yards to kill a hog using a 17 HMR rifle. Moreover, the shot must be precise to the head or chest. You don’t want to try the same when using 17 HMR handguns.

As you can see, both weapons are excellent for small game hunting. Handguns can only kill small game at short ranges. 17 HMR rifles are good at short ranges and mid ranges but only for small game. Only hunters with skilled marksmanship can kill large game at mid ranges.

Choices on the market

You’re better off choosing the 17 HMR rifles since there are a variety of choices to consider. This cannot be said of handguns. There are limited to 17 HMR handgun choices with shooters having a few options to choose from. In fact, most available 17 HMR handguns are usually revolvers. A good example is the Taurus Tracker which is an excellent revolver. It is a durable revolver ideal for small game hunting.

However, if you’re looking for a quality 17 HMR rifle, then there are great choices out there for you to consider. We’ve already mentioned the two commonly 17 HMR rifles out there.

 Plinking

The 17 HMR is a suitable choice for plinking. If you’re looking to enhance your accuracy, then choosing the 17 HMR rifle is a great idea. The rifle is extremely affordable and balances that with accuracy and speed. However, it features a big limitation at long ranges. This is why 17 HMR rifles are not used for competition shooting. 17 HMR is highly susceptible to wind. The .17HMR bullet and 17 gr bullet with speeds of 10mph will drift around 3 inches at 100 yards.

While you can use both the rifle and handgun for plinking, the rifle stands out as a great choice. This is because it offers a better range for practice. However, when it comes to plinking, there are varieties of ammunition to consider.

Ease of use and control

Ease of use and control of any weapon is a great consideration when choosing any weapon. Most 17 HMR rifles feature contemporary styles and are pretty easy to use. Moreover, they are lightweight when compare to various other rifles on the market. The 17 HMR rifles usually feature stainless steel action and portable rotary magazines. They also allow for easy and quick mounting of 17 HMR scopes. There are included scope rings on most of these rifles for immediate scope mounting.

The rifles also come with fixed sling swivel mounts to allow for easy carrying. You can comfortably move around with the rifles on the field as you target the game. When you consider 17 HMR handguns, there are also portable and quite easy to use. Most revolvers feature nicely grooved grips to ensure a firm grip. You can be sure of making multiple shots without losing grip. They are also safe to avoid cases of unintended shooting.

Final thoughts

Most shooters are hunters are always on the lookout for ways to improve their accuracies. The 17 HMR rifles and handguns provide a perfect opportunity to practice that through plinking. The 17 HMR guns are also suitable for small game hunting. There is no better choice when deciding between a 17 HMR rifle and a handgun.

Before making any purchase, make sure you consider your needs and choose a matching choice. If you’re hunting small game at short ranges and need to preserve them, then choose a handgun. The rifle is also a great choice for small game at short ranges. However, the bullet speed can be too destructive for small game like a squirrel.

Continue Reading

How to Choose Night Vision Scope for AR-15 Hunting?

how to choose night vision scope for AR-15 Hunting

The AR-15 remains one of the most versatile rifles for long-range and mid-range shooting. It is a favorite for hunters who are presented with varying scenarios. While the AR-15 is pretty reliable, you need the best optics to have a precise shot. It even gets worse when hunting at night. There is no denying night time is the best time to hunt.

When the sun goes down, you have the perfect opportunity for predators and feral hog control. While there are higher chances of finding the game at night, you have minimal chances of spotting it. This is why we need night vision scopes for AR-15 hunting. Your versatile AR-15 alone is not enough without the right night vision scopes.

Detecting game at night

Scope choice is a hot topic especially when it comes to hunting in the dark. There is minimal light for normal day scopes to work. This requires choosing the best night vision scope. There are a lot of factors to consider before you can decide on the ideal night vision scope.

You need to take into consideration the hunting distance, conditions, and available light. Once you understand the hunting conditions, there are two-night optics for you to consider. These are the night vision scope and the thermal scope. Both optics help hunters in detecting, recognizing, and targeting the game. So, the big question is which is the most suitable between a night vision scope and a thermal scope.

Let’s have a look at the two categories of night optics to mount on your AR-15 rifle.

Night vision scopes

Night vision scopes are the most common and one you’ve probably seen on TV. Military movies on the TV show the scope with a green-hued screen. Night vision scopes work by collecting and intensifying any ambient light available. These can be starlight, moonlight, and any light on the sky at night. These scopes are usually paired with infrared light that illuminates a target or field.

The infrared light is usually invisible to the eye but looks like a spotlight through a night-vision scope. In simple terms, night vision scopes work just like the human eye. They are able to see light bouncing off objects and targets and creating an image of the said target.

Types of night vision scopes

Night vision scopes have evolved through the years with new generations coming into the market. When choosing a night vision scope, you will see terms as Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 night vision scopes. These terms go to show the generations through which night visions copes have evolved. Gen 1 night vision scopes are the most basic and usually budget-friendly. Each generation after one will cost you more to generation 3.

If you’re looking for further detection with minimal ambient lights, then consider the high-end Gen 3 night vision scopes. Nowadays, we have a new classification called the Digital Night Vision which uses an intensifier tube. It is a versatile scope that can also be used during the daytime.

Thermal Optics

There is a big difference between night vision scopes and thermal optics. Thermal optics read heat by detecting temperature changes. The thermal optics feature high-tech processors in the thermal optic. The high-tech processors are able to detect any large difference in temperatures and create a digital image of the heat map.

You can clearly see digital pictures of objects and landscapes in the optic. Different thermal scopes feature different color pallets. You can switch color pallets to your specifications. In simple terms, thermal scopes are heat sensors. Thermal scopes can see minute differences in the heat with higher precision.

When hunting, the game just like humans generates heat making their surroundings warmer. Cold blooded animals like snakes will be hard to see since their body heat matches the surroundings. Because thermal scopes detect heat radiations, they don’t require any light to produce an image.

Thermal scopes are suitable for hog and deer hunting at night. You need to consider a thermal image scope that will perfectly mount on your AR-15. You can also consider a thermal imaging monocular which is lightweight and extremely durable. Such thermal scopes allow hunters to quickly spot hogs and deer at night increasing their chances of a successful kill.

Deciding between a night vision scope and a thermal scope

The two optics come with their pros and cons. Night vision scopes are suitable for hunting in clear fields without bushes and tall grasses. They produce a clear image of the target without shining visible light in the game. However, night vision will not see through fog, tall grass, and foliage.

Thermal scopes, on the other hand, can see through smoke, fog, grass, and foliage. It clearly reads heat making it a suitable choice in fog conditions. However, most thermal optics cost thousands of dollars.

Continue Reading

Best AR-15 Upgrades – 5 Best AR-15 Accessories to Upgrade Your AR-15

best AR-15 Upgrades

Are you looking to upgrade your AR-15 to the best rifle possible? The AR-15 is one of the most versatile guns out there for short and long-range shooting. If you’ve used the AR-15 before, there are parts you loved, and others you wanted to be modified. We are all different and have different needs. While you might enjoy contoured grips, some shooters just like smooth grips.

However, customizing your AR-15 should not be a difficult task. There are endless ways you can modify and upgrade your AR-15 to suit your needs. In fact, the AR-15 is by far the most customizable gun possible. There are varieties of components on the gun you can easily upgrade. The best AR-15 is one that is customized to your particular shooting preference.

The end results?

In the end, the upgrades will give you a more accurate AR-15 for an optimal shooting experience. You will possess a gun that feels comfortable to use in your hands. You can greatly increase your shooting accuracy by 45% by making simple upgrades. And, the good news is that you don’t have to take your AR-15 to a gunsmith to have the upgrades done.

So, what are the best AR-15 upgrades to make?

5 Best AR-15 Upgrades

Before making any AR-15 customization, you need to be well-versed with gun laws in your state. You want to be on the good side of the law before making any upgrades. Having done that, let’s have a look at the most important AR-15 upgrades.

AR-15 Trigger

The AR-15 trigger plays a crucial role by having the final say on when the round leaves the barrel. The best AR-15 trigger will leave your finger feeling comfortable and at home. When your finger feels comfortable, you’re certain to enjoy the high accuracy time and again.

Apart from the excellent feel of the trigger, you need one that offers a comfortable level of resistance. The ideal AR-15 trigger must be extremely durable to withstand every possible environment. When it comes to AR-15 triggers, you might want to look at curved and straight triggers. These are the best and offer a crisp pull in low-intensity shooting. We also have single-stage triggers which are perfect for high-pressure scenarios.

The best option for you is to consider an AR-15 trigger kit that comes with the trigger, disconnector, disconnector spring, trigger spring, a J-hook spring, and a hammer. The bottom line is that you need to consider the task at hand and choose a matching AR-15 trigger. Having the right trigger means accurate shooting and an overall better shooting experience.

AR-15 Optics

The next important AR-15 accessory to consider is the right optic. The better you sight your targets, the more accurate you shoot. Under optics, there are several options to consider. First, you need to consider the best AR-15 rifle scope to match your shooting requirements. The scopes are readily available and come with different specs for long-range and short-range shooting. AR-15 scopes offer a superior advantage in any combat situation. They are designed to provide precise shots to help you accomplish your mission. The scopes come in handy when performing long-range shooting.

You can also consider sights that fit your AR-15 and match your intended use. There are varieties of sights available. A red dot sight is one important that displays a dot with a circle on the optic lens. Red dot optics are ideal for fast and accurate target acquisition. They work best in low light conditions and are primarily used for predator hunting, competitive shooting, and home defense. Red dots are ideal and offer the best accuracy at 100 yards.

It is important to note that red dots are not magnifying scopes and best work in the close range shooting. If you’re looking for more information about any thing related to scopes & sights, you can check out this in-depth article.

Grips

Next, you need to consider your AR-15 grips. How the rifle feels in your hands plays an important role in your shooting capabilities. The rifle must feel right when you grip it. You need to spend less time on your hands and more time on shooting. Upgrading the grips of your AR-15 depends on what best feels comfortable.

You can consider the smoother or rigid grips depending on what best feels comfortable. Next, you need to choose the right grip material. There are polymer and rubber grips with or without fiberglass reinforcement. The ideal grips selected must increase your comfort levels and ergonomics. This will help you feel comfortable and relaxed, reduced tension. In addition, make sure you consider the finger grooves, palm swells, and contours.

Enlarged trigger guards

 When it comes to safety, trigger guards are quite essential. The guards help protect your trigger and trigger components. Consider upgrading your rifle with enlarged trigger guards for comfortable use with gloves. Enlarged trigger guards provide more room for your trigger.

Extended magazine release

 Extended magazine releases are more durable and can serve you for years to come. Small stock magazine releases are cumbersome and waste your time as you fumble with small buttons. How fast you use your AR-15 depends on fast you drop your used magazine and reload. Customizing your AR-15 for fast magazine reload requires extended magazine releases.

Continue Reading

How to choose a scope mount for a 308

You have a .308 rifle, and what’s not to love about it? This rifle is the ultimate. It is arguably the most popular short-action, big-game hunting cartridge you can own. Civilians, military and the police all appreciate the .308 rifle.

This rifle is pretty powerful, a .308 can shoot accurately at 200 yards. This is great, but when you add a scope that range extends considerably. Scopes have the ability to take your rifle and make it even better.

What is the purpose of a scope?

Which scope mount will be your cup of coffee? What scope will take you to distances you never knew were possible? It’s important to find an accessory that has the ability to reach various distances depending on the intent and purpose you choose. Granted, you are able to reach one distance with Scope A, but Scope B has the ability to go well beyond 500 yards. So what exactly will you choose? It depends on the application.

By adding on the right scope for your .308 caliber rifle, you are only increasing your ability to enjoy all of the favorable benefits that the rifle has to offer, including aerodynamic shooting, comfortable weight, economic power consumption, and multiple use capabilities in a number of settings.

The .308 rifle is probably one of the more popular rifle choices. It is safe to say that almost every optics manufacturer will have a scope that will fit your.308 rifle. When purchasing a scope, make sure you understand how it is mounted. It is crucial that the scope be mounted correctly. In fact, without a mount a scope is useless. The mount is the glue that holds the whole combo together.

Scope Mounts

Scope mounts are available in different designs and with different features. Which one you choose is based on personal preference and scope manufacturer recommendation. Sometimes it will depend on what kind of shooting you will be doing. All scope mounts are available as one-piece mounts or ring mounts. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of scope mounts that are available.

One-piece mounts

If you are looking for something that will be easy and straightforward, then you know that one piece scope mounts might be exactly what you are looking for. All you have to do is install a scope on there and bang, you’re done. The installation will mostly be simple and won’t require any complex fitting.

Scope Rings

Scope rings have been around for a very long time. Your father used them and so did his father. The only difference is now that these scope rings of today are a lot sturdier and quite easy to tack onto a .308 rifle. You’re really going to love having scope rings handy if you just want something that will allow for reliable security and a strong hold to ensure that every shot you take is straightforward and precise.

You will need a base

Mounts also require a base. So, you will need to be sure you have one that can accommodate your mount and rifle. Some bases are universal. Here are some universal bases.

Rails

Rails are important to the installation process of a scope mount. And your mount has to be compatible with either a Picatinny rail or a Weaver rail. In fact, some mounts will probably fit both. These rails allow for you to make customization quite easier for you. It will also allow you ample space to find the right kind of scope that you want for your .308 rifle. 

Integral base

Integral bases are often the easiest since the scope rings are fixed with the mount. In other words, you won’t have to install one to the other. This is probably the simplest solution that you can come up with if you are new to the entire concept of using a .308 rifle.

Also, it will save you a pretty good amount of time from tracking down separate parts and installing them one by one. You can install an integral base in no time flat. If simple is your thing, these types of mounts will surely be the best possible choice for you.

Top 3 Mounts for your 308 rifle Reviews 2020

 1 ​Vortex Optics Pro Riflescope Rings

Vortex Optics Pro Riflescope Rings

Vortex is known for being really durable. In fact, you might as well call them the undisputed champions of durability. Furthermore, their quality is perhaps second to none even when stacked against higher end brands. And to add the icing on the cake, they are also affordable for most budgets. While it is highly recommended to find the best quality that is affordable to you, these scope rings hit the sweet spot. Once you attach this to your Weaver or Picatinny rail, you’ll be able to fit any kind of scope you want for hunting or target shooting.

 2 Nikon Black Precision One Piece

 Nikon Black Precision 1Piece - Medium Height 30mm

Nikon might be the best at providing excellent optical quality, but they still deliver on the promise when it comes to providing high quality scope mounts. With that in mind, you can be able to install these on your rail of choice with no difficulty at all. But for best results, installing a Nikon scope will definitely make itself stand out among the rest of the pack. If you want a scope mount that will waste little of your time and make sure that your rifle is ready for a huge upgrade with the scope you choose, this is the mount you may want to consider.

 3 ​Leupold Dual Dovetail Rings

 Leupold 49957 Dual Dovetail Rings, 30mm (Medium Matte)

Leupold might be one of the direct rivals to Vortex in terms of durability. But it’s more of a higher end brand. So it will win some and lose some amongst shoppers. These scope mounts are strong and simple to install on a rail that you can depend on for all your customization needs. They can hold any good sized scope together without a single hint of wiggling around. So the scope maintains its stability even through so many rounds of gunfire.

Points to Remember

Adding a scope to your 308 is a great way to effectively increase the range at which you can accurately bring down your target. On its own the 308 is pretty powerful; a good scope makes it that much better.

In order to attach your scope to your 308 rifle, you will need to have a mounting system in place. There are two types of mounts-one piece and rings. The one-piece types are often heavier, which can be a concern. User fatigue when spending long periods of time in position is a real concern.

 

The other type is rings. Rings are usually lighter in weight. In order to attach a scope mount to your rifle, you will need to use a base. The most common bases for 308 rifles are either Picatinny or Weaver rails. 

 

The rails are crucial to the scope setup. They prevent your optic from sliding backwards with recoil or moving around during transit. You need to check and see what kind of rings your rifle’s base uses. Picatinny and Weaver rails are distinct, so the brand of rings you use may not always be interchangeable.

Next Steps

After you have successfully mounted your base and scope to your rifle, make sure that you properly zero it before taking it out in the field. A properly zeroed scope helps ensure that your point of aim and your point of impact match up successfully. It takes time and patience to properly zero your scope but it is time well spent. The whole point of adding a scope to your rifle is to increase your shooting range and to be successful in the type of hunting you plan on doing. Once you have spent the time and money purchasing the right scope, base and mounts and have spent the time installing it all, make sure to zero.

Conclusion

There is no greater joy than a good day in the field. Adding a scope is a great way to refine your aim and increase your accuracy. Once you have selected the right scope for your hunting needs, be sure to get the right mount and base. This is the glue that will hold the whole combo together and help to guarantee your success. After you have it all properly attached and zeroed, you are all set for some good hunting.

Continue Reading

How to mount a scope for a 308

Now that you have finally selected the right scope for your .308 rifle and hunting needs, it is time to mount it. Some people will take their scope and rifle to a gunsmith, but it is a job you can tackle yourself. You simply need to make sure you have some common tools on hand first, and then make sure you have some time. This is a job you can do, but you do not want to rush through it.

Let’s take a look at what you will need and then the steps you will take to mount your .308 scope to your rifle.

Before you begin

The most important step to take before you do anything, is to check your rifle. Make sure that it is unloaded and safe. You must check to make sure that the magazine is unloaded, unclipped and the area is safe and secure.

What you will need

Before you begin mounting the scope to your rife, gather all your materials and tools.

1. The right screwdriver heads

If you want the installation to go swimmingly well, it starts with finding the right screwdriver heads. You will be choosing one that will either be compatible with Torx heads or Allen heads. Find out what your mounting system has before going any further.

2. Torque Wrench

Obviously, you want to get the lugnuts and other stuff nice and tight. The last thing you want to contend with are loose bits that will cause the mount to fall out of place. Find a wrench that will be compatible with the huts and bolts that you need to tighten and you won’t have to struggle with the installation.

3. Loctite

Good ol’ Loctite night just come in handy if you really want to keep the nuts, bolts, or even the mount itself intact. You probably won’t need it, but it’s worth having within an arms reach.

4. Levels

Nothing gets the job done quite like a level. You need one so that you are able to keep everything aligned and perfectly straight. You don’t want your scope to be crooked and off-course, right? The more level and straightforward the scope is, then you won’t have any trouble shooting straight and accurate shots almost every single time.

5. Rubbing alcohol

Think rubbing alcohol is just for cuts and scrapes? You’d be surprised. This actually makes for a great cleaning solvent for all your bits and pieces prior to installation. Be sure to use some in order to get rid of any oil buildup that may be detrimental to the quality of the mount.

6. Cleaning Rag

Can’t do any cleaning without these. Make sure you find some that are small in size (think dish cloths). Find a few that won’t create any scratches, scuffs, and whatever else.

7. Caliper

This will be a tool that will work in conjunction with your level. This will help you make dang sure that your scope is straight and well-balanced before you even install it and put it to good use.

8. A gun vice

This is a tool you need to keep it all in place. The need for this is pretty self explanatory. Again, stability is a must if you want to install a scope or mount on your rifle of choice.

How to mount your scope to your rifle.

Once you have double checked that the magazine is unloaded and unclipped and that your work area is safe, you are ready to begin mounting the scope.

1. Take the cleaning rag and add some rubbing alcohol to it.

You should thoroughly clean every bit and piece of the mount using a cloth . Do a couple of wipe overs before going any further.

2.Test fit

This is where the fun begins. Well, sort of. At this point, you’ll want to make sure that all the bits and pieces are lined up and able to fit in the right spots. This way, you can determine if everything fits or will need some additional fitting.

3.Attach the rings

Once you are 100 percent certain that everything is ready to fit, install the rings on the base. Make sure you double check the install instructions provided by the manufacturer.

4.Place the scope on the rings

Be sure that the rings have plenty of space priory to install. You don’t want them too close to the turret.

5.Now you can start to tighten the screws.

At this point, this next step is pretty self explanatory. Using a screwdriver of your choice, now you can tighten the screws and ensure they are secure once you are complete.

6. Attach bottom rings

Now you can secure the bottom bottom rings to the base. Again, consult the instructions that came with the base and scope rings. Use a small amount of Loctite on the threads of the attachment screws, tighten the screws and torque them to the specs provided.

7.Set the scope on the bottom rings.

8. Attach the top rings over the scope and tighten them lightly.

9. Now you will keep the reticle straight

With two levels (which is optional, but one is a must) you should be able to level the elevation knob and make sure the entire scope is leveled and lined up. Make sure to fasten the scope rings just a bit

10. Now check the eye relief

Pick up the rifle and shoulder it, but close your eyes first.

Using a quality cheek weld, pretend you are holding the rifle and preparing to take a shot.

At this point, you should have a clear view of your image picture through the scope without looking closely.

If you need to make adjustments, you can do so by moving the scope back and forth until you are able to see through the scope at the desired eye relief (i.e.–keep your eye three inches away from the eye piece if the eye relief is three inches). Once you are able to get a straight image view, secure the rings the whole way through.

11.Finish securing the screws

Double check to see if the scope is square and straight. Then tighten the screws and apply any Loctite if needed.

12. Bore sighting

Now you will check your scope and rifle for bore sighting. Be sure that the barrel’s centerline is aligned with the scope itself. They should be at the same distance within each other.

If you need a good idea at what distance you need to bore your sights at, you may want to consider 50 yards as a good starting point. Anything less would be considered too close.

13. Make sure to let the Loctite cure overnight.

Points to remember

If you are a gun owner, then you already understand the importance of caring for and maintaining your firearms. Adding scopes and optics to your rifle is a great way to increase your shooting range your accuracy and the type of game you may be hunting.

Once you have narrowed down your choices and picked the best scope for your 308, it will need to be mounted. Although your first reaction may be to go visit your local gunsmith, this is a job you can do yourself. Just make sure that you have a few tools on hand and clear your schedule.

The mounting process is not overly difficult, but you do not want to rush through it either.

Once you have your scope properly mounted, you will want to zero your scope. Doing this increases your accuracy and ensures that the point of aim and the point of impact will line up successfully. All of this prep work can seem time consuming, but it is worth it when you see your success out on the range.

Conclusion

Mounting your new scope can be done pretty easily. Make sure you have the proper tools on hand and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best and safest installation. It is a good idea to invest in a good set of tools if you do not already have them on hand. A dependable set of tools will be with you for a long time and serve you well.

And as always, before doing any work on your rifle, make sure that the magazine is unloaded and unclipped and that your work space is secure. There are no shortcuts when it comes to your safety.

Continue Reading

How To Choose A Scope For A 308

You have a .308 rifle, and what’s not to love about it? This rifle is the ultimate. It is arguably the most popular short-action, big-game hunting cartridge you can own. Civilians, military and the police all appreciate the .308 rifle.

Straight out of the box, a .308 can shoot accurately at 200 yards. This is great, but what can you do if you want to expand that range? The answer is to add an optic. Scopes have the ability to take your rifle and make it even better.

In order to purchase the right scope for your .308, you need to answer a few questions. It is good to know what you intended to use the scope and rifle for- competition target shooting? Big game hunting? It is also crucial to know what your maximum shooting distance will be, since not all scopes will shoot out to the same distance. And you should also have a budget in mind. The price of scopes can have quite a price range. Since most gun owners consider accessories to be part of their gun investment, it’s a good idea to have a working budget.

Photo Source: https://usfclass.com/

What is the purpose of a scope?

More and more people are taking up an interest in hunting and in firearms. This means that there is also a growing interest in accessories. Accessories have the ability to turn an average hunting day into a great one. For rifles, there are many accessories available to add on and enhance your shooting experience.

One of these accessories is a scope. Scopes are used by rifle owners for different reasons. There are some scopes for night use, others are intended for shorter ranges, some are better for varmint hunting and some are designed for long range shooting.

By adding on the right scope for the .308 caliber rifle, you increase your ability to enjoy all of the favorable benefits that the rifle has to offer, including aerodynamic shooting, comfortable weight, economic power consumption, and multiple use capabilities in a number of settings.

It is crucial to decide how you will use your rifle and scope. Long range shooting is defined as shooting that takes place at a distance that requires the shooter to factor in ballistics, especially windage and bullet drop. These two factors are necessary for accurate target hitting at a distance.

In the sport of shooting, long range shooting is generally broken down into different classes. Benchrest shooting involves distance that are between 100-1000 yards. F class shooting is typically 300-1000 yards as well. Practical Precision shooting involves targets that are 100-1800 meters out and use steel targets.

Other factors that contribute to deciding long range shooting are, weather and caliber and the distance at which you consistently hit your target. For a .22 rifle, any distance over 100 yards is considered long distance.

It is important to know if you plan on using a scope on your 308 for shooting at 100 yards, or the scope on your 308 for hunting.

Which Brand Should You Go With?

Almost every company makes scopes for the .308 rifle. You will find a wide range of process and some extras. However, all scopes have certain features in common. Here are some factors to care before buying a scope.

1.Durability

Durability is one of the really important attributes that you’ll need to come to terms with when finding a scope. One of the major reasons why it’s so important is because it can be able to absorb consistent episodes of shock. And let’s not forget some of the other things that could be damaging to a scope. We’re talking about water, fog, and even instances of bad weather. As a rule, find a scope made from high-quality aluminum since it’s proven to handle all the abuse and bumps that come with regular use.

2. The scope can hold its zero

When you mount a scope on your .308 you will need to zero it for best results. You want to be sure that the scope you purchase can reasonably maintain that zero. The .308 rifle does have a recoil and the scope needs to be able to handle that. It is important to remember that when you are out in the field or range, it is not the right time to zero or rezero your scope.

3. Fixed vs Variable Power

Magnification is another important element to a highly-functioning scope. But there are two types that you may need to choose from: fixed or variable. So what’s the difference between the two? Fixed power can be used if you plan on going deep into the woods while hunting.

This means you won’t be out in the open like a field. So you need to deal with trees, shrubs, and whatever else. Also, fixed scopes have only one level of magnification and it’s typically a low level of power.

Variable on the other hand has a range of magnification levels. This will come in handy if you plan on doing any hunting or shooting targets at longer distances. Keep in mind that some higher levels may indicate that the scope can be able to go the distance.

4. Eye Relief

Eye relief is sometimes an overlooked aspect of a scope. It refers to the distance between your eye and the scope that allows you to see a clear picture. When you factor in the recoil of rifles, this distance is important. The minimum recommendation is 3.5” of eye relief.

How much should I budget for my scope?

You might be wondering about the bottom line and how much this will cost you. Keep in mind that scope can vary widely in price. When you are considering adding a scope, it helps to think of it as an investment. You want a quality piece, at a good price, that will last.

With that in mind, you do not have to purchase the most expensive scope at the store. The best scope you can buy is the one that matches your skill level and need and still fits in your personal budget.

It is feasible to purchase scopes for under $100.00. You can also purchase a scope for several thousands of dollars. Remember, you do not have to spend a ton of money. Purchase a scope with the features you need for the shooting you will be doing. A good rule to follow when purchasing a scope is that it should cost at least ½ of what your rifle cost.

Points to Remember

A scope for your .308 rifle should help you take your shooting to a new level. This accessory is meant to enhance your shooting by helping you to sight your targets better and with greater accuracy. You should realize that scopes are made with a range of features. You need to think about how you will be using the scope and know what your maximum shooting distance will be before making a purchase. This will help you choose the best scope for yourself and your needs.

The .308 rifle is extremely popular and widely available. Almost every optics manufacturer will have a scope to fit a .308. When you choose you scope, make sure you understand how it is mounted on to your rifle. And make sure you have the proper mounting equipment.

After you have properly mounted your scope to your rifle, you will need to zero it. Correctly zeroing your scope will increase your success in the field and hitting targets. Zeroing your scope does take some time, so make sure you allow for this.

You zero your scope by setting up targets at 50 yards. Take 3-5 shots and then look at how close you are to the bullseye. Make the necessary adjustments to your scope and try again. Once you are successful at 50 yards, back out to 75 yards. The go back to 100 yards. Repeat the process until you have zeroed your scope for your preferred shooting distance.

There is a wide range of prices when it comes to scopes. You can reasonably spend under $100 and get a solid scope. You can also spend thousands of dollars and get a good scope. You should look to purchase a scope that has the features that will be most beneficial to you for the hunting you will be doing. And treat the purchase as an investment; you will have your scope for many years.

Conclusion

The .308 rifle is a universal firearm. It is made by almost every manufacturer and the ammo is widely available almost everywhere. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned rifle owner, the .308 is a good choice.

You can use a .308 rifle for competition shooting. You can also use it for hunting almost every type of North American game. If you enjoy game hunting, or need to protect your property this rifle is a smart choice.

To enhance your .308 rifle, you should consider adding a scope. Scopes today are designed to be lightweight so they will not contribute to user fatigue when out in the field for long hours. These scopes have a range of features and prices. It is possible to purchase a scope that will enhance your rifle experience.

Treat your scope purchase as an investment. You should expect to use it for years to come. A .308 and a decent scope make a great team. If you are not sure which one is best for you, stop in your local gun shop and the experts will be happy to help.

Continue Reading