Info & Articles

Choosing the Best EOTech for AR-15

by

eotech-logoChoosing the best EOTech holographic sight is not a simple task at all. EOTech designs and markets electro-optic products. They produce weapon sights for small arms, including AR-15 rifles. Primarily, EOTech manufactures holographic weapons sights.

As the first company to create holographic sights, EOTech solved the problem of wavelength instability that was exhibited by laser diodes. The sights they developed, achromatic holographic optics, compensate for any change in the emission wavelength of the laser diode with temperature. Designed to be mounted on small arms, they offer better visibility and assist in aiming.

Contenders for the Best EOTech for AR-15

EOTech Technology

Unlike reflector sights, EOTech holographic sights do not use a reflected reticle system, instead a reticle is recorded in three-dimensional space onto holographic film as a part of the optical viewing window.

This reticle uses collimated light and has an aim-point that can move with eye position. Since a laser is used as the light source the aiming reticle can be an infinitely small dot, for someone with 20/20 vision the dot can appear at about 1MoA. It’s also easy to shoot with both eyes open.

As compensation for any change in the laser wavelength, EOTech sights employ a holography grating that disperses the light in the opposite direction, resulting in a reticle that is stable despite any change in temperature.

500-series Holographic Sights

Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
33 Ft
More Information
Click For Price
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
33 Ft
More Information
Click For Price

The EOTech 512 and 552 models are your starting point for holographic sights in the EOTech line. And, they are probably all you need.

Lets start with what these two sights have in common: Both take two AA batteries and last 1,000 continuous hours (on a lithium batter). Dimension-ally they are the same. And, both sights weigh in at 11.5 oz. The 500-series weighs less than half of some variable magnification scopes, which can weigh-in at well over 20 oz.

They also feature the same A65 reticle, which is great for accuracy and fast target acquisition. The reticle has a tiny 1 MOA red dot in the center for precision shots, and a 65 MOA outer ring for getting on target faster at closer distances.

The advantage of the 552 over the 512 model is night vision compatibility and weather-proofing. The 512 is not night-vision ready. The 552 is. And, the 552 is water proof down to 30 ft vs the 512’s water resistance to 10 ft.

Between the two I would go with the EOTech 512 A65 model. Go with the 552 if you plan to use night vision, or need the extra weatherproofing.

XPS-Series Holographic Sights

Preview
EOTECH XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
EOTech XPS3 Military Holosight
Title
EOTech XPS2
EOTech XPS2
Weight
9 oz
9 oz
Length | Width | Height
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
600
600
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
33 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech XPS2
Weight
9 oz
Length | Width | Height
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
600
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
EOTech XPS3 Military Holosight
Title
EOTech XPS2
Weight
9 oz
Length | Width | Height
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
600
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
33 ft
More Information
Click For Price

While stepping up slightly, the XPS2 and XPS3 models mostly fall in line with the 500-series. The XPS2 being the lower-end version without night vision capability. The XPS3 also has the better weather-proofing you see in the EOTech 552.

What stands out about the XPS-series is their size and weight. They are much smaller and lighter than the 512 and 552. This could be a major advantage if you are likely to be in high stress situations at close quarters – like you might in law enforcement.

That weight and size advantage will cost you 400 hours of battery life on a single charge (down from 1,000 continuous hours to 600 hours). This may not be an issue if you regularly swap-out your batteries, but keep it in mind.

The XPS line is also more expensive, with the XPS3 running about 25% more expensive than the 552.

Conclusion

EOTech has been producing superior sights for years. Their holographic technology will keep you accurate at longer distances, and get you on target faster as short distances. Just like red dot sights. Making it perfect for close range use.

The sights they design and market are often superior in many aspects, an excellent product for use with any gun – the AR-15 especially.

All of the sights made by EOTech are excellent, but the best holographic sight for the money is the EOTech 512 Holographic Sight. It’s a solid sight that delivers. It might be missing a few of the features of the 552 or the XPS-line, but you may not need the extra bells and whistles. Unless you have a special need, go with the 512. You won’t be disappointed.

Where Are Vortex Scopes Made?

by
Vortex Optics

Vortex Optics is an American family-owned company that offers a wide variety of telescopic sights ranging from binoculars to riflescopes. The company’s scopes, in particular, are quite popular due to their incredible features and reasonable price points. However, many scope buyers often question where Vortex products are made. This concern stems from the fact that a lot of US riflescope brands don’t make their products from scratch these days. As a result, concerns about quality are rife among scope buyers.

Vortex Optics

Before learning where vortex scopes are made, it’s important to know the main product lines that come from this optics company. At the time of this writing, Vortex scopes can be distinctly grouped into the following product lines:

  • Vortex Razor HD: These Vortex scopes cost the most but the good news is that they’re not as expensive as other brands. Being their premium line, Vortex develops Razor HD scopes with high quality standards and optics designed to provide excellent performance.
  • Vortex Viper: The Viper line is the second best offering that Vortex has under its belt when it comes to riflescopes. Viper scopes offer great quality compared to a number of similar scopes from other brands in their price range. These scopes also provide more magnification and precision in shooting. Original models such as the 30mm 6.5-20×44 and 6.5-20×50 were well-built and are still good scopes. However, you can find better configurations in recent Vortex scopes such as the Viper HS and Viper PST models.
  • Vortex Diamondback: Diamondback scopes are available at cheaper prices than the Viper or Razor HD models. The glass is well-designed and Diamondback scopes are known to have a large field of view and high magnification.
  • Vortex Crossfire: The Crossfire line, including the Crossfire II, is on the lower price range of Vortex scopes. However, the quality is still very good and buyers get to choose from a wide range of configurations.

Where Are Vortex Scopes Made?
Maybe a more direct question is, are Vortex scopes made in the USA? While Vortex claims on its official website that all their products are designed, engineered, pre-inspected, and serviced in-house, labels on their scopes indicating the manufacturers’ locations say something quite different.

For instance, some models are labeled “Made in China” and others in the Philippines. Indeed, most Vortex riflescope components are manufactured almost entirely in Asia. A closer look reveals that Vortex scopes are manufactured in the following locations:

  • Razor HD scopes are manufactured in Japan
  • Vipers are made in Philippines
  • Diamondbacks are made in Philippines made as well
  • Crossfire scopes are produced in China

It may come as a surprise that an American-owned company, located in the USA, sells riflescopes that have been manufactured overseas. But this is common in the optics industry where many trade name companies buy components from a manufacturer and then put their name on it.

In fact, very few optics companies engineer and build their riflescopes in-house these days. And while Vortex doesn’t make their products, they do have the expertise and are able to tell optics manufacturers exactly what they want. All of Vortex’s custom designed scopes are made according to their specifications.

The question of who makes vortex binoculars, spotting scopes and rifle scopes has one simple answer. Vortex does. And, Vortex is in Barneveld, Wisconsin, which, by the way, is a great area for investing in real estate. If you would like to learn more about investing in real estate check out Remetrics, which helps you analyze real estate investment deals.

Does It Matter Where Vortex Optics Are Made?
This is a controversial topic that has elicited many divided opinions. On one hand, you have companies that sell whatever they can outsource overseas and assemble cheaply. Such brands sometimes compromise on the quality of their scopes on the premise that they’re giving buyers lower prices. With most cheap riflescopes being made in Asia, this has led many scope buyers into thinking that the vast majority of Asian-made products are of poor quality, which is not entirely true.

On the other hand, there are optics companies like Vortex that do the engineering in-house and then demand manufacturers build what they want.

At the end of the day, what matters most is whether a riflescope works as advertised rather than where it was made. Are Vortex scopes any good? You bet:

So, if you’re apprehensive about Vortex scopes being made overseas, simply do your research and choose a model that other users have vouched for. The best part is that Vortex offers a lifetime VIP warranty for all their riflescopes. This lifetime warranty goes to show that Vortex is a reputable optics company that believes in the quality of their products and stand by what they put their name on.

—>>Click here to see discounted Vortex Rifle Scopes!<—-

Top 3 Best Scopes for 223 Caliber Rifles

by
223 caliber

To save you time, we recommend the Nikon P-223 as the best 223 scope overall. It is tailor made for the 223.

The .223 Remington is a popular rifle cartridge that shares almost the same external size dimensions with the 5.56x45mm NATO round. It comes in different weights depending on the manufacturer, with options ranging from 40 to 90 grains.

Bullets weighing 38-55gr (2.5 to 3.6g) are mostly used with bolt-action varmint rifles that offer a 1-in-12 rate of twist. Heavier .223 Remington rounds of up to 69gr are mostly used on law enforcement or home defense semi-automatic rifles such as the Ruger Mini-14 and AR-15s, which are commonly found to have twist rates of 1-in-7, 1-in-8, or 1-in-9.

Preview
Best Budget Scope
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Top Pick
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Best Fixed Magnification
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Title
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Magnification
3-9x
4-12x
5x Fixed
Reticle
Drop Zone-223 BDC
BDC 600
ACSS Standard 5.56 / 5.45 / .308
Objective Diameter
40 mm
40 mm
36mm
Eye Relief
3.7 in
3.7 in
2.5 - 3.0 in
Tube Diameter
1 in
1 in
N/A
Weight
21 oz
17.5 oz
18.4 oz
More Information
Click For Price
Click For Price
Click For Price
Best Budget Scope
Preview
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Title
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Magnification
3-9x
Reticle
Drop Zone-223 BDC
Objective Diameter
40 mm
Eye Relief
3.7 in
Tube Diameter
1 in
Weight
21 oz
More Information
Click For Price
Top Pick
Preview
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Title
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Magnification
4-12x
Reticle
BDC 600
Objective Diameter
40 mm
Eye Relief
3.7 in
Tube Diameter
1 in
Weight
17.5 oz
More Information
Click For Price
Best Fixed Magnification
Preview
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Title
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Magnification
5x Fixed
Reticle
ACSS Standard 5.56 / 5.45 / .308
Objective Diameter
36mm
Eye Relief
2.5 - 3.0 in
Tube Diameter
N/A
Weight
18.4 oz
More Information
Click For Price

Target Penetration

Generally, the small and fragile .223 Remington rounds splinter on impact, allowing almost no penetration through the target. While this fragmentation and lack of penetration is a desirable trait when looking to incapacitate a target, it calls for precise shot placement.

The concern for insufficient penetration also leaves almost no room for error. Additionally, nothing increases accuracy when firing .223 Remington ammunition more than a good riflescope.

Long Range Shooting

If you’re looking to outfit a .223 caliber rifle with a scope, then you need to find one that can take full advantage of this round’s effective range.

The .223 Remington has a maximum effective range of up to 600 yards on a calm day. However, its progressive loss of velocity, and the effects of wind, greatly compromise its accuracy and effectiveness at such long distances.

When used within fairly short distances of 100-300 yards, this round can deliver lethal terminal ballistics with a greater level of accuracy.

With these facts in mind, it becomes easier to match your .223 Remington rifle with a scope that will provide ample magnification. However, there’s still a lot more to consider when selecting the best scope for 223 caliber rifles.

For instance, any good riflescope will need to be durable, versatile, and provide excellent light transmission as well as optical clarity. The following are three of the best .223 scopes that match these criteria while giving you a good range of price points from which to choose.

Nikon P223

Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
  • Features the BDC 600 Reticle with open circle aiming points and hash marks from 100 to 600 yards
  • Make quick hand-turn ¼-inch @ 100 yard adjustments with Rapid Action Turrets
  • Made with Nikon's fully multicoated optics for maximum brightness and light transmission
  • Adjustments are made easy with Spring-Loaded Instant Zero-Reset Turrets
  • Optimized for use with Nikon's Spot On Ballistic Match Technology
Click For Price

Nikon produces riflescopes designed for specific calibers in their P series line. As the name implies, the Nikon 4-12x40mm P-223 (Review) was precisely designed for the .223 Rem round. This feature-rich model packs a lot of value for a 223 BDC scope priced in the mid-range section.

For starters, its bullet drop compensator was developed while keeping in mind the trajectory of 55-grain .223/5.56 NATO rounds with polymer tips. The BDC reticle is remarkably easy to use and provides precise 1/4 MOA reticle adjustments. It also offers shooters a unique open circle aiming point with hash marks ranging from 100 to 600 yards.

If you’re using heavy recoiling .223 rounds, a lightweight rifle or shooting from tight angles, this scope offers a generous eye relief to protect your eyebrow from bumps. What’s more, it comes with a fixed parallax setting to eliminate errors at 100 yards.

In spite of being a budget scope, the Nikon P223 doesn’t lack anything when it comes to ruggedness. Its o-ring sealed nitrogen filled housing is resistant to fog, water, or hard knocks.

Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone 223

Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
  • Rifle scope 3 9x40mm
  • Fully multi coated optics with 3 9 x magnification
  • Compatitble with a wide variety of hunting rifles
  • Drop Zone-223 BDC Ballistic Reticle is calibrated for 55-62 grain, 223 REM/5.556 loads with aiming points out to 500 yards
  • Side focus parallax adjustment for adjustable long-range accuracy and a fast-focus eyepiece
Click For Price

The Bushnell AR Optics with Drop Zone 223 BDC Reticle is versatile. Its multi-coated glass produce bright, clear images. Along with its 3-9x variable magnification, you should easily make precise shots at your .223’s maximum effective range.

Fine-tune your accuracy with the target turrets 1/4 MOA click value and fast-focus eyepiece. The side-mount turret is fully adjustable to eliminate parallax for long-range accuracy.

You don’t have to worry about defects. This scope is covered by Bushnell’s Ironclad Warranty. This lifetime warranty is completely transferable. You don’t even have to show proof of purchase.

Bushnell’s high quality optics are second only to their impressive build quality. The scope is made of anodized-finished, rust-proof aluminum alloy which was sealed with an O-ring and nitrogen purged to keep the internals clean and dry. This thing is tough and will take a beating.

Primary Arms 5X Prism Scope

Sale
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
  • ACSS reticle has BDC and ranging out to 800 yards with 5.56 NATO, .223 Remington, 5.45x39mm, and .308 Winchester
  • Partially illuminated reticle is visible even in bright daylight with red or green illumination
  • Removable M1913 picatinny top rail for accessories or piggy-backed red dot sights
  • Tough prism scope is waterproof, fog resistant, and shockproof
  • Protected by a lifetime warranty
Click For Price

Fans of simple, fixed magnification scopes will love the second generation Primary Arms 5x Prism Scope with ACSS Reticle. It is very easy to use.

Available models come with either .308 Win or .223 Rem reticles. The 223 scope with bullet drop compensator features what Primary Arms calls auto range technology, for fast target acquisition.

You have 5 red and 5 green brightness settings, which are illuminated by a CR2032 battery. It sports a fast focal plane reticle as well for easy aiming of moving targets. Thanks to the ACSS 5-10 mph wind holds, you can also account for bullet drift with this riflescope.

One place the this scope falls short is the warranty. Unlike the other scopes on our list with lifetime warranties. Primary Arms only offers a 3-year warranty.

When it comes to build quality, the Primary Arms ACSS does not disappoint. No worries about recoil or extreme weather. This scope is durable, featuring a shock, water, and fog proof housing that will hold up to the rigors of field use.

Conclusion

Remember that the best scope for 223 rifles is one that will allow you to zoom in on targets over a range of distances, built to last, and provides high quality optics. There are many other riflescopes that support .223 caliber rifles on the market besides those mentioned above. However, these three suggestions provide good choices for comparison if you don’t know where to start.

AR 15 Holographic Sights:The New Age of Long Distance Shooting

by
Holographic Sights for your AR-15

AR-15 Holographic Sights

Holographic Sights are the latest in Long Distance Shooting for your AR-15. The sight uses laser technology and a computer to judge distance, wind speed, and other factors. These factors are displayed on the glass of the gun accessory.

Hunters love this information and the sight makes their sport easier. Military sharp shooter units have used this technology for the last 10 years. While many people will benefit from this technology, it is not for everyone.

I encourage you to check it out at your local gun shop before deciding if it is for your or not.

What are the Differences between Regular Scopes and Holographic Sights?

Simply put the holographic sights are much more accurate than regular scopes. You have a better view, a more accurate sight of your target and a focus within everything you are looking at through the view of your sight. While some will say the regular scopes are better than the holographic sights because essentially, “if it’s not broken, why fix it?”, many people will choose the more challenging aspect vs. the technology of a holographic sight.

Start with the best: EOTech Holographic Sights

You can’t find the best holographic sight for AR-15’s, shotguns, or any other firearm (like your .22 pistol) without checking out EOTech’s selection. They are the first name you will hear in the holographic site world for a reason.

Even with the basic 512 model, you get the A65/1 reticle pattern sight. Up close, use the 65 MOA outer ring for to acquire your target fast. At distance, the 1 MOA dot in the center gives you better precision than you get with your typical 2 MOA red dot sight.

For a few more dollars you have the 552, which adds night vision capability. Then XP2 and XP3 are more light-weight. All great sights in their own right. Still, the EOTech 512 is our pick for the best value holographic sight you can buy.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Holographic Sight

You want to consider several factors before you decide to buy your holographic sight, but to narrow it down; you want to keep your considerations to:

  • Price
  • Field of Sight, “How’s the view?”
  • Size of Scope
  • Amount of Use

With these considerations and understanding how it is to meet your needs, your choice of holographic sights will make your goals in hunting and target shooting met with ease.

In which Situations will this Scope be used?

From Hunters to Police SWAT teams, holographic sights have been used in many different situations. For example, it is used for:

  • Sport of Hunting
  • Sharp Shooter Competitions
  • Military Sharp Shooting Sniper Units
  • Protection (capturing a fugitive or someone running from being arrest)

Each situation is different, regardless of what it will be used for, the holographic sight will make your hunting experience better, the competition much more of a challenge for the other competitors who use regular scopes, or the capture of a fugitive a great motive to do better each time.

Holographic Sights have became more on trend in comparison to the regular scopes. Like I stated above, the sight uses laser technology and a computer to judge distance, wind speed, and other factors. These factors are important in every situation that it is used in. Hunters want this information. The military marine needs this information and technology. It is not for everyone but it could be for you!

—>>Check out the best prices on Amazon for Holographic Sights<<—

The Four Standard Rifle Shooting Positions Explained

by
4 standard rifle shooting positions

When you take ahold of your hunting rifle, how do you hold it? If you were asked to show the 4 common shooting positions, would you be able to adequately explain each one? Some of you may be nodding your heads but others will need some of these explained. Still whether you know what to do when holding a rifle or not, here are some pro tips to make each position work more efficiently for you.

Prone

prone rifle shooting position

The classic position with the best stability. Lying down on your stomach behind the rifle gives you very high accuracy. That said, the low angle may limit the view of the target, depending on the environment. It is also not an answer position to get into on spur of the moment.

To get into the perfect prone position, lie down with your body pointing 10-20 degrees to the right or left of the target (depending on your dominant hand). A more modern update the prone position even calls for the body to be more behind the firearm with your strong-side leg slightly bent (think Figure 4). Keep the elbows grounded, with the supporting elbow right beneath the rifle. Your head should be level with the ground. Snug the butt of the rifle into your shoulder then establish a good spot weld.

Pro tip: Use a sling or the “hasty sling” method

When using a sling, the rifle is completely supported by your arm, which in turn is supported by the ground.

Sitting

sitting rifle shooting position

Although prone is by far the steadiest and is good for beginners, it is also the least used in real life simply because vegetation and other obstacle get in the way. The sitting position offers clearance for low to medium height obstacles. There are a few variations on how to sit, so you can choose the one style that suits you best.

Open Leg

This variation is done by sitting with your body facing to either side of the target (about 30-45 degrees)—again this is dependent on your dominant side. Extend your legs, keeping the knees slightly bent. Let your feet be about shoulder width apart. Your elbows will generally rest on the flesh above the knee or on them.

Cross Leg

While generally taking the same position as mentioned above, you alter the comfort level by crossing one leg over the other into a loose Indian style pose. Optionally, you can cross at the ankles, allowing the knees to be slightly more open.

When seated properly, the sights are in alignment with the target. The shooting hand should have to do nothing but hold the pistol grip and pull the trigger.

Kneeling

kneeling rifle shooting position

The middle position of sitting and standing. Getting into kneeling position is easy. Your weak-side knee and foot point at the target when crouching, and you supporting elbow is propped up onto that knee. Do not rest your elbow directly atop the knee, as it can slip off.

Your dominant-side knee is pointing outward at about 90 degrees. Depending on flexibility, you can sit on the dominant leg or sit on the heel of a flexed foot.

Standing

standing rifle shooting position

The least stable position but oftentimes necessary. Only when there is no other option or the vegetation is too high do you stand. The proper position is achieved by resting the support elbow (weak side) against that side’s hip, which is thrusted outward.

Wrap your supporting hand into a hasty sling. Support your weak side by pointing that side’s foot toward the target. Be sure you stock fit is perfect. You need to have your cheek firm against the stock. Keep the shooting elbow horizontal so that you get better leverage. After that, try to isometrically contract the chest muscles for stability upon firing.

Conclusion

There you have it—the four standard rifle shooting positions explained! How many of them did you know? Hopefully, whether you knew them already or not, you gleaned something helpful from this article.

Tips for Choosing the Best Scope for Coyote Hunting

by
coyote hunting

Coyote hunting is a popular sport in the southwest and mid-west states. Most people hunt coyotes to protect their livestock or because they’re looking for the sheer adrenaline rush that comes with dropping wild canines from yards away. In states where it’s legal to hunt, coyotes usually have a bounty on their heads as they provide valuable pelts.

Whatever your reasons for hunting coyotes, choosing the right gear for the job is the critical first step. A few supplies you’ll need to hunt include baits, calls, and decoys. As for the hunting weapon, low caliber and high speed varmint rifles that use .22-250 or .223 rounds provide the best performance. With that being said, your riflescope is perhaps the most important piece of equipment when hunting coyotes.

Coyotes are sharp critters with an acute sense of smell. They can also detect movements that are not quite right in their immediate surroundings. So, chances are you’ll not be able to come close enough to get a clear shot without scaring off your prey. However, a good riflescope allows hunters to shoot down coyotes even from a long distance off.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a scope for hunting any type of game. To that end, this guide will talk about some of the vital aspects that you should consider in order to choose the best scope for coyote hunting.

Variable Magnification
Variable power scopes can turn out to be a great asset when hunting coyotes. Sometimes, bait also can lure coyotes to appear within close range, like 20-50 yards. In other circumstances, you’ll have to deal with targets sitting more than 300 yards from your current position. A riflescope that adjusts magnification offers much flexibility because you can target coyotes from a variety of distances.

There are a few factors to consider before selecting a scope for coyote hunting. For instance, what’s the terrain of the area you will be hunting? What do you anticipate to be the average range or the furthest shots you have to make?

In general, scopes that can crank up the magnification to 9x will be ideal for shooting coyotes from 400 yards. On the other hand, if you’re deep in the woods and your furthest shot is no more than 150 yards, a 1.5-5x scope would suffice. Remember that the key to choosing an ideal scope magnification ultimately comes down to your particular environment and shooting conditions.

Size of the Objective Lens
Scopes that have large objective lenses would make a great addition on your varmint rifle. The only drawback with a large objective lens is that your riflescope will be a bit heavy and it will require taller rings to prevent contact with the barrel. However, the larger the objective lens, the better it will perform in low light conditions. If you plan to hunt coyotes at dusk or dawn, riflescopes with at least a 50mm objective lens are highly recommended.

Reticle
Coyote hunting can present a very dynamic environment. For example, you may find that your target is always moving, hiding in the dark or sitting hundreds of yards away. This dynamic shooting environment calls for a good reticle.

A fast focal plane (FFP) reticle will come in handy when aiming at moving coyotes. Unlike riflescopes that use second focal plane technology, scopes with FFP reticles maintain the size of the target relative to the crosshairs even when the magnification changes.

Illuminated reticles are not necessary but certainly appropriate when hunting nocturnal coyotes. Lastly, if you plan to hunt coyotes from long range, then settle for a Mil-Dot reticle. Such reticles will come in handy when estimating range and holdover on long shots.

Rugged Scope Design
A good coyote hunting riflescope should be shockproof, fog-proof, and water resistant in order to withstand the rigors of field use. As a predator hunter who drives a lot, chances are your varmint rifle is always going in and out of the truck. Needless to say, you’ll find that your gun will be bouncing about, falling, and perhaps slamming into things during the drive. In addition, most coyote hunts involve wading through marshes or even crawling on the ground. Therefore, it’s important to pick a rugged scope that was built to last and won’t compromise visibility in rainy or foggy weather.

Conclusion
A good scope for hunting coyotes should provide variable magnification and excellent light gathering abilities through a large objective lens. It should also be rugged and equipped with a fast focal plane reticle. The ability to make range estimations and compensate for wind drift with a mil-dot reticle is desirable as well, especially when planning to shoot from long distance. Once you have all these aspects covered, you’ll be one-step closer to choosing the best scope for coyote hunting.

What Qualifies as the Best Varmint Scope?

by
varmint scope

Intelligent, cunning, wary, and stealthy, varmint animals are some of the most challenging prey to shoot down when hunting. To hunt these predators successfully, you’ll need to step up your hunting skills. One way of doing that is getting the best varmint scope. The type of scope you use during varmint hunting can make the difference between missing a clear short-range shot and making an impossible shot from a long distance off. So, to ensure you are armed with the best varmint scope, here are the three most crucial scope qualities you should look for.

Magnification
Magnification level is by far the most important factor to consider when looking for a scope for varmint hunting. Varmints are cautious and sly in nature. As such, these animals are always on their guard. Getting close without arousing them to your presence is very difficult and therefore, the only option you’re left with is hunting from a distance. To do this well, you’ll need a scope with a high level of magnification. The appropriate level of magnification helps to make aiming at targets easier and also increases your chances of making opportunistic shots from a distance.

Remember that high magnification on a scope is not always the best. In fact, high power scopes will limit your field of view when focusing on a target at the highest level of magnification. To avoid over-scoping your rifle, ensure to choose the preferred level of magnification while taking into account distances you intend to be shooting from.

Flexibility is also an important quality to look for in a varmint scope as it enables you to adjust scope’s magnification to your specific distance range. Generally, the best magnification range for varmint hunting would be 3-12X.

Favorable Light Transmission
The most opportune time to hunt varmint is during low light conditions such as dusk or dawn. Low light impairs a varmint’s defenses and reflexes thus rendering it vulnerable and easier to hunt. Unfortunately, dark conditions also impair our sight, making it difficult for us to see as clearly as we would during daytime. This then necessitates the need for a riflescope with a good amount of light transmission. Multi-coated riflescopes come with a wide range of light transmission with some offering as high as 98% light transmission. Anything above 95% is considered great for varmint hunting. An illuminated reticle is also a bonus feature to have when hunting varmint in low light conditions.

Quality Objective Lens
When you adjust the magnification on a scope, you also alter the exit pupil’s size, which regulates the amount of light passing through the scope to your eye. Generally, when magnification is increased, the exit pupil decreases. This makes it difficult for you to get a clear picture of your target especially when hunting under low light. Therefore, it’s imperative that you go for a quality lens with an exit pupil diameter that adjusts to the surrounding.

Normally, the human eye dilates to a diameter of 5mm in low light. Ideally, the exit pupil of the scope should exceed the dilation of the eye for your eye to receive as much light as possible. A 50 mm (or higher) objective riflescope will make a nice fit. Such objective lenses have a wide enough range to ensure ideal exit pupil in a variety of magnification settings. Thick lens coating is also a good feature to go for as it improves your scope’s light gathering capabilities and improves target picture in low light conditions.

On the subject of lenses, you should pay close attention to type of reticle and available field of view provided by a scope’s lens. The wider the field of view, the better it is as varmint hunting usually involves shooting at rapidly moving targets. As for the reticle, finer variations provide the fine aiming point needed for longer ranges.

So, to recap, a good varmint riflescope should be able to zoom in on targets from a variety of distances, prevent light glare, provide a wide field of view, and adjust to poor lighting. Having these qualities in your scope will help even out the odds when it comes to varmint hunting.

Best Scope for .270 Winchester Rifles

by
Best scope for .270

Looking for the best scope for .270? Read on! The .270 Winchester is one of the more popular hunting rounds used to hunt larger game such as deer, elk, and moose. Winchester Repeating Arms commercialized this rifle cartridge in 1925 for their bolt-action model 54 rifle. In modern times, however, gun manufacturers offer this chambering system for a wide variety of firearms ranging from single shots, bolt and lever actions, to pump action, auto-loaders, and double rifles.

Brand & ModelOur RatingPrice & Reviews

Leupold VX-R		Leupold VX-R 4.7 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

Nikon Buckmaster		Nikon Buckmaster4.9 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

Bushnell Mil Dot		Bushnell Mil Dot 4.6 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

The .270 Win is a favorite round among hunters who appreciate its widespread availability, consistency, terminal ballistics performance, and moderate recoil. Of course, reliable ammunition such as this performs best alongside high-quality optics. Therefore, there’s no reason why your scope shouldn’t be as dependable as your ammo. With that in mind, this post will offer a few suggestions to help you choose the best scope for 270 Winchester round compatible rifles.

First, let’s learn a little more about the .270 Win.

Best scope for .270

Traits of the .270 Win Round

At the time of its introduction, the .270 Winchester was marketed as an ideal option for big game shooting in the 370 to 910 meters (404 to 995 yards) range. Over the years, more round loads have been introduced by ammunition manufactures and now you can find bullets for the .270 Win chambering system in 100-160gr sizes.

Depending on the ammunition’s weight in your .270 Winchester cartridge, this round fires fast and precisely at ranges of up to 600 yards in open fields. So, when choosing a scope for your .270 Winchester rifle, make sure to take into account the ammunition’s effective firing range.

For close range shots, this round can be very accurate since the bullet starts to drop below the line of sight at 150 yards. However, the .270 Win experiences less bullet drop compared to other long-range calibers such as .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield. This is why it belongs to the category of “flat trajectory rounds”.

308 vs 30-06-1

In most cases, a 3-9x variable power scope would normally fit the bill when looking for telescopic sights that will work well with a .270 Win rifle.

 

Best 3 Scopes for .270 Win Rifles:

#1: Leupold VX-R 


If you’re planning to hunt down fast moving game from close range with your .270 win rifle, then the Leupold VX-R is a suitable scope. Its low 1-4x magnification power and motion sensing reticle makes it easy to target a running animal. This hunting scope features an illuminated FireDot reticle as well, which will come in handy if you intend to hunt at dusk or dawn.

When it comes to ruggedness, the Leupold VX-R doesn’t disappoint at all. Scratches will not ruin your lenses too thanks to the DiamondCoat glass fitted on this scope. Like most Leupold scopes, the VX-R features a fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof design.

#2: Nikon Buckmaster


For shooters wishing to use their .270 Win rifles from close to medium range, the Nikon Buckmaster makes a great choice. It’s a 3-9x variable scope jam packed with features such as a 40-mm objective lens, BDC system, Brightvue anti-glare glass, o-ring sealing as well as a fog and waterproof housing.

#3: Bushnell Mil Dot  


This Bushnell scope can be an invaluable tool in any hunter’s tool kit. It’s a 4-12x variable power scope equipped with a 42-mm objective lens and fully multi-coated optics, which deliver HD clarity. Powered by a mil dot reticle and built-in range finder, this model allows for precise holdover with a maximum effective range of up to 800 yards.

The scope’s Laser Range Finder (LRF) uses a 3-Volt battery that can last up to 5000 fires while providing accurate performance every time. Bushnell went ahead to build a weather resistant body for their Mil dot LRF riflescope to make it one of the best rugged models for long range shooters using .270 win rounds.

 

Conclusion
If your rifle is designed for the .270 Win chambering system, choosing the right scope for it is not that difficult. All you need to do is compare scopes that are suitable for your particular round and rifles’ shooting range, and the distances from which you want to shoot targets.

The suggested scopes in this guide are by no means a conclusive list. However, these models will definitely serve as a starting point when looking to buy the best scope for 270 win rifles.

Preview
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40 BDC
Leupold Mark MOD 1 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Vortex Optics Diamondback 3-9x40 SFP Riflescope Dead-Hold BDC MOA
Title
Nikon Buckmasters II
Leupold Mark AR MOD 1
Vortex Diamondback
Magnification
3 - 9
3 - 9
3 - 9
Objective Diameter (mm)
40
40
40
Weight (oz)
13.1
12.4
14.4
Field of View (ft @ 100 yards)
33.8 - 11.3
33.5 - 14.1
44.6 - 14.8
Eye Relief (inches)
3.6
4.10 - 3.60
3.3
More Information
Click For Price
Click For Price
Click For Price
Preview
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40 BDC
Title
Nikon Buckmasters II
Magnification
3 - 9
Objective Diameter (mm)
40
Weight (oz)
13.1
Field of View (ft @ 100 yards)
33.8 - 11.3
Eye Relief (inches)
3.6
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
Leupold Mark MOD 1 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Title
Leupold Mark AR MOD 1
Magnification
3 - 9
Objective Diameter (mm)
40
Weight (oz)
12.4
Field of View (ft @ 100 yards)
33.5 - 14.1
Eye Relief (inches)
4.10 - 3.60
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
Vortex Optics Diamondback 3-9x40 SFP Riflescope Dead-Hold BDC MOA
Title
Vortex Diamondback
Magnification
3 - 9
Objective Diameter (mm)
40
Weight (oz)
14.4
Field of View (ft @ 100 yards)
44.6 - 14.8
Eye Relief (inches)
3.3
More Information
Click For Price

What is the Best Scope For 30-06?

by
best scope 30-06

The .30-06 Springfield is an American rifle cartridge that dates back to 1906 when the Army first adopted it. Since then, it has continued to be a popular cartridge used by soldiers, hunters, and target shooters alike from all over the world.

best scope 30-06

Numerals used to name this round have special meanings. The first number “30” is the bullet’s caliber while “06” refers to the year the cartridge began use – in 1906.

Due to its hard-hitting performance, the .30-06 Springfield is a common round for hunting. It has enough stopping power to bring down large game such as bears, bison, and Samba deer when used at close to medium range.

For effective range performance of any rifle loaded with this round, you need to have the best scope. So, this begs the question of what is the best scope for 30-06 users? Although there are a lot of great picks out there that you can pick without having to spend a fortune, this post will offer a few scope suggestions for you to consider. But first, here are some important considerations to keep in mind when looking for a riflescope designed to work with the .30-06 Springfield round.

What Type of Shooter Are You?
To determine what type of shooter you are, ask yourself where do you hunt most frequently and what type of shooting do you do? For instance, you don’t need a high power scope when you mostly hunt in close quarters where there is thick forest vegetation. A wide field of view would instead help you more by providing better vision of obstructions such as thickets and trees.

On the other hand, if you’re target shooting at 100-300+ yards or hunting in vast open areas, a 3.5-10x40mm or 3-9x40mm variable scope will serve you well.

What Is Your Budget?
A lot of so called “riflescope gurus” advise beginners to buy what they can afford or purchase glass that costs just as much as the rifle. However, the best approach to use when shopping for a riflescope is to invest in a quality model right from the get-go.

Budget scopes in the $100-$150 range tend to be of low quality and don’t usually last as long as more well-constructed, and therefore, more expensive models. But while the majority of pricey riflescopes (those priced over $1000) are usually well-built, it doesn’t mean you just should settle for the most expensive model you see. A good place to start when shopping for scopes to use with your .30-60 compatible rifle is the mid-price range of $200-$950 since mid-range scopes tend to offer a good balance between value and affordability. Just remember to pick a model that is suitable for your particular type of shooting.

Top 3 Scopes for .30-06 Compatible Rifles
#1. The Leupold VX-2


Why not pair up your All-American cartridge with an All-American scope? Leupold has been designing high quality riflescopes in their own facilities since the 1940s. Their VX-II features a variable magnification power of 3-9x, a 40mm objective lens, and Leupold’s unbeatable lifetime warranty.

#2. Carl Zeiss HD5 Optical Conquest


The German-made Carl Zeiss Optical Conquest riflescope boasts a HD lens system for amazing light transmission and enhanced image quality. This 2-10x variable power scope features a sleek design and is one of the most advanced super zooms on the market. What’s more, it comes with scratch and moisture resistant Lotu Tec coated glass.

#3. Vortex Viper PST 6-24x50mm FFP Riflescope


With this Vortex scope, buyers get more magnification power a large 50mm lens and fully multi-coated lenses to enhance light transmission. This is the sort of scope to mount on your .30-06 caliber rifle when planning to shoot from long distance range since it has a MOA reticle to help you make bullet drop calculations.

Conclusion
Keep in mind that there are many other good .30-06 scopes other than those suggested above. Picking the best scope for 30-06 caliber rifles is not hard. You just need to determine which scope is ideal for your specific type of shooting and then determine your budget.

While the .30-06 round is for vintage rifles, there are still many manufacturers developing quality rifles for this cartridge. The best part is that scopes for rifles that use the .30-06 round have changed over the decades and now riflemen have plenty of modern models from which to choose.

Discover the Best Scope for .308

by
best scope 308

Loved for its friendly recoil, long lasting barrel life, and efficient powder consumption, the .308 Winchester is a popular rifle cartridge that has been around for well over six decades. This rimless, bottle-necked cartridge was adopted in 1952, and with a few minor modifications, it became the 7.62 x 51mm round used by NATO troops.

best scope 308

If you are planning to shoot targets positioned as far as 250 to 300 yards, then the .308 Win round can be superbly efficient when paired with the right riflescope. Even beyond that range, the .308 Winchester can still outperform other long-range rifle cartridges like the .300 Win or 7-mm Remington Magnums.

Hunters from all over the world enjoy using the .308 Winchester round to shoot down medium to large sized game. In North America alone, this cartridge is used extensively to hunt pronghorn, elk, whitetail deer, and even the occasional black bear or caribou.

But whether you’re a professional hunter or just something learning the tricks of the trade, you should understand that you’ll definitely need a good quality scope to hit your targets dead on. So, which is the best scope for .308 Win cartridge rifles? There are several factors to consider when selecting the best telescopic sight for any rifle designed to use the .308 Win round. These aspects will be explained below to help you choose the best scope for .308 compatible rifles.

What Is The Maximum Effective Range For The .308 Win Round?
There’s really no point in buying high powdered scopes that can sight targets beyond the range of your .308 Win caliber rifle. There idea here is to avoid buying scopes with features that will not be of much help to you in the field. Fortunately, the .308 Win cartridge is quite versatile. Whether you intend to drop targets from short, medium, or long range, this round will deliver great performance when used along with a good scope and rifle.

According to the US Army, the .308 Win can be effective up to 800 meters. On the other hand, the US Marine Corps (USMC) reaches a 1000 yard (915 meters) maximum effective range for this round in favorable weather conditions. Beyond that range, the .308 Win begins to go off course very quickly.

Consider Your Specific Shooting Range
For close to mid-range shooting, you’ll need a low power variable .308 Win scope. For instance, something like a 3.5-12x magnification scope and an objective lens size of 35-40mm should be enough to drop deer and human sized game from a range of within 250 yards. Scopes with lower magnification will also have a friendlier price and offer a wider field of view.

Alternatively, if you’re going to use your .308 caliber rifle at long range (600+ yards) for varmint shooting, then be sure to go for a 6-24x variable scope with a large 50mm objective lens. Typically, tactical scopes with a built-in bullet drop compensator and calibrated turrets will be most ideal when using your .308 rifle from 300+ yards.

A good .308 scope should also be covered with a warranty as well. In addition, consider choosing illuminated reticles if you plan to hunt in low light conditions. Finally, it’s also important to pick scopes designed with rugged bodies that can hold up to the vigor of outdoor use.

Conclusion
The .308 Win caliber rifles require a good scope in order to drop targets with accuracy. These rounds are designed to go the distance and deliver punishing energy even from long range. For that, you’ll need to invest in the best scope for your .308 rifle. And in order to make the right choice, remember to consider what distances you will be shooting from. Lastly, take into account your budget and any other specific features that will provide a competitive edge when you are out in the field.