Top 3 Best Scopes for 223 Caliber Rifles

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
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
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
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

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
  • 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

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
  • 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

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

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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

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.

Best Scope for .270 Winchester Rifles

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
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
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
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

What is the Best Scope For 30-06?

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

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.

Discover the Best AR 10 Scope: Buying Guide

AR-10 Scopes

Discover the best AR 10 scope for your needs with our buying guide. Developed in the late 1950s by Eugene Stoner, the AR 10 was one of the first rifles ever marketed by the Fairchild Division of Armalite. It’s also the big brother to the AR 15 rifle and a more powerful battle rifle in its own right.

AR-10 Scopes

Although the AR 10 never received much commercial success, many hunters and rifle users have come to love this .308 caliber platform because of its versatility. The AR 10 is ideal for big game hunting, target shooting, home defense, and so much more. It also offers good optics if you want to achieve maximum performance.

 

What’s The Main Difference Between AR 10 And AR 15 Scopes?
The AR 10 and AR 15 rifles don’t have the same effective firing range. Therefore, what makes scopes for each rifle different is simply the magnification power that’s required to provide optimal telescoping sighting for the supported firing range.

An AR 15’s effective firing range is about 400m to 600m (average 547yards), but it’s possible to take longer shots depending on the ammunition you use and shooting conditions. You can also get 100 to 200 meters more effective firing range with something like .300 blackout ammo. However, even good .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO ammo will start to run out of kinetic energy at 600 to 700 meters when fired from an AR 15. So, there’s really no need to buy a riflescope that can out-range the ammunition you’ll be shooting.

When it comes to the AR 10, effective shooting range for this rifle is usually about 600m to 700m (656 to 765yards), although the .308Win ammo on this rifle can make shots of up to 1000 meters. Remember that a good AR10 scope is also one that provides ample magnification for your desired shooting range.

 

What to Consider When Shopping For AR 10 Scopes

AR 10 scopes come with a dizzying variety of bells and whistles. It’s therefore easy for first time buyers to get confused over what to buy. The following is a rundown of the most important considerations to make when shopping for AR 10 Scopes.

 

Magnification
Optimal magnification for any given shooting task is a subjective matter. However, scopes that provide telescopic sighting from 100 to 1000 meters can serve most purposes when using an AR 10 rifle. From a general standpoint, though, the longer the shooting range, the more magnification power you’ll need for your AR 10 riflescope.

In most cases, scopes lower than 10x magnifications are typically better suited for shooting at distances less than 500 meters or for offhand shooting. For long range shooting (up to 1000yards), scopes with 18-25x power would be ideal.

When selecting a scope’s magnification for your AR 10, make sure not to confuse those that have fixed and variable power. Scopes with fixed power usually have a single digit followed an “x”. This figure represents how many times larger an image becomes when viewed through the ocular lens. With variable power scopes, the magnification power is expressed as a range. For example, a 3-9x scope indicates that the level of magnification is adjustable from the lower number to the higher one. Such variable power scopes provide much flexibility since you can use them for both long and short range shooting.

 

Diameter of the Objective Lens

The objective lens transmits light to the ocular lens in order to focus an image. Usually, the size of objective lenses is expressed in “mm” after the magnification specification. For instance, a scope indicated as 3-9x40mm means that the objective lens has a diameter of 40mm.

A larger objective lens will capture more ambient light than a small one, which means a brighter and clearer image. At higher magnifications (12x upward), the brightness and clarity offered by large objective lenses is quite noticeable.

It’s important to note that a larger objective lens comes with a few drawbacks. For instance, the bulky size of a larger lens adds more weight to your rifle and makes it easier for the scope to accidentally knock into things. Furthermore, a larger objective lens can affect the balance of a rifle since it has to be mounted over the barrel and action. Fortunately, you can compensate for this by buying a cheek riser.

 

Special Coatings

A good scope will also have quality glass. Special coatings are usually applied on the surface of some riflescope lenses to reduce glare and the amount of light lost during when transmitting the image to your eye. Scopes can have more than one lens coating. Generally, you’ll find special coatings described using the following terms:

  1. Coated – this means that a single layer has been applied to at least one lens.
  2. Fully Coated – all air-to-glass surfaces will have one layer of coating.
  3. Multi-coated – when multiple layers of special coating have been applied to at least one lens.
  4. Fully multi coated – all air-to-glass surfaces contain more than one layer of special coating.

Keep in mind more special coatings usually translate to a more expensive and high-quality riflescope.

 

Reticle Type
After determining how much magnification you need, an objective lens size and special coatings, you’ll then have to settle for a reticle pattern. The reticle, also known as crosshair, is a series of lines, dots, or other patterns in the eyepiece that help to locate and aim at targets. There are dozens of reticle patterns designed by different scope manufacturers. These include:

  1. Duplex: The duplex reticle takes the form of a simple crosshair. However, the crosshair becomes thicker at the outer area of the scope but has finer lines as it converges at the center. This design helps the eye to focus on the center of the scope. Riflescopes with duplex reticles are great choices for target shooting and hunting.
  1. Mildot: The Mildot reticle is much like the duplex pattern but with a little twist. This reticle has a series of evenly spaced dots that run along the finer lines of the crosshair. The dots can be used for range calculations or as some sort of BDC. Scopes with the mildot reticle are suitable for precision shooting from a range of 300 yards or beyond.
  1. BDC: BDC is an acronym for “bullet drop compensation”. These types of reticles have markings on the lower crosshair post. The markings represent different target distances. BDC scopes allow you to make accurate shots over different target ranges without adjusting the elevation setting on your scope. However, riflescopes with these types of reticles are only moderately accurate for ranges beyond 500 yards.

When planning to use your AR 10 at dusk or dawn, an illuminated reticle will perform better in low light conditions.

 

Windage and Elevation Adjustments

Windage and elevation adjustments on most riflescopes are calibrated in MOA (minute of angle) or MRAD (milradian). Both of these measuring units represent a section of an angle that can be converted to linear inches. Once you understand how the MOA or MRAD systems work, you can use these adjustments as a means of measuring an object’s target zone. However, MOA adjustments allow for more accurate zeroing compared to milradian scopes because minute of angle increments are smaller, typically 1/4-inch per click.

 

Focal Plane
Another important feature to factor in when choosing a scope for your AR 10 is the position of the reticle within the telescopic sight at different magnification settings. This position is usually referred to as the first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP).

Scopes equipped with the second focal plane technology allow for a consistent sight picture at all levels of magnification. In other words, the reticle remains the same in size regardless of the magnification level when using an SFP scope. On the other hand, FFP reticles change in size as the magnification changes, and this can make it difficult to see the crosshair at low magnification levels of 3-5x.

 

Parallax Adjustment

Parallax error can lead to missed shots or bad groupings. It occurs when the scope is not able to focus the reticle and target on the same focal plane. Parallax in riflescopes is detected when the reticle appears to change in position in relation to the target as you move or nod your head. This is usually not a problem with low power scopes, especially those set to be parallax free at a specific distance such as 100 yards. However, parallax can be a problem when using a higher power scope such as those rated at 12x and beyond. It’s therefore important to go for a model that offers a parallax adjustment knob (sometimes called the “side focus”) when shopping for high power scopes.

 

Eye Relief

Eye relief is simply the maximum distance you can leave between the eye and scope and still obtain the full viewing angle. This distance is usually expressed in inches and it varies depending on the riflescope brand. The AR 10 has greater recoil than the AR 15 since it is a powerful gun and fires larger rounds. As such, the scope that you choose for this rifle should have a decent eye relief range to compensate for the higher recoil rate.

 

Conclusion
Now that you have a solid idea of what to look for when shopping for an AR 10 scope, the final factor to consider is, of course, your budget. When it comes to riflescopes, you get what you pay for. Most, if not all, high priced rifle scopes will give you increased adjustment precision, better optical clarity, repeatability and overall durability. However, it’s still possible to get budget priced riflescopes that perform well and are of decent quality. The current scope market is flooded with a myriad of brands, which gives buyers on a budget many different price points from which to choose. In order to get the best bang for your buck, make sure to research the brand and model of any low priced scope by reading through what other customers have to say.

How To Choose The Best Spotlight For Coyote Hunting

best spotlight for coyote hunting

Although coyotes can be hunted during the day or night, most people prefer hunting these animals when darkness sets. It’s not just the thrill of nighttime hunting that draws folks out when half the world has gone to sleep. Sure, it can be exciting to be out on the range stalking a coyote when the night is young and predators have come out to play. But apart from the fear factor of the night, what’s really interesting, though, is the challenges that nighttime hunting presents.

For instance, you’ll need good night-vision gear to help you see at night since there’s lesser visibility when the sun isn’t shining. Furthermore, you’ll need to know the right coyote hunting calls, when to be still and remain silent (coyotes have fantastic hearing abilities and can pinpoint your exact location if you make the slightest inappropriate sound), and you definitely need a sturdy long range rifle that’s guaranteed to be on target the first time round. You don’t want to cause a huge ruckus by firing off your rifle, have your target run away, and then be left with nothing to hunt since every coyote and nocturnal creature would have gone into hiding by then.

To help you better your odds, here are some tips to help you get the best spotlight for coyote hunting.

Understanding Why a Spotlight Is Important for Coyote Hunting
If you’ve never gone coyote hunting at night, you may not realize how important a good spotlight is for tracking these nocturnal animals. Once the sun goes down, coyotes come out of their dens to hunt, eat, breed, and are less wary of what’s going on around them. When you sneak up on a coyote with a spotlight, their eyes will reflect light from the spotlight and give them away.

Choose Between a 12-Volt or Rechargeable Power Supply Spotlight – Or Use Both
When you’re shopping for a spotlight for coyote hunting, one of the choices you’ll need to make is whether to go for a 12-volt spotlight or rechargeable power supply spotlight. A 12-volt spotlight can be operated from a vehicle using a cigarette plug adapter. On the other hand, a rechargeable power supply spotlight will allow you to carry the spotlight with you, which means that you can use it to hunt on foot.

The type of spotlight you choose is completely up to you and based solely on preference. However, it’s important to note that a 12-volt spotlight makes a great option for large parties. In this situation, you’d be able to use the spotlight from an ATV while other members of the party can search for coyotes by foot.

Coyote Spotlight Must-Haves
Whether you’ve chosen a 12-volt or rechargeable power spotlight, your spotlight needs to come with a few specific features to make it suitable for nighttime hunting. Firstly, you’ll want a light that has a controlled spread to allow you to illuminate areas in detail. Next, you’ll want something that offers flood light options. Flood lights are ideal for scanning wooded areas and fields. But more importantly, with a flood light, a coyote’s eyes will reflect and allow you to quickly locate the pack you’re hunting. Lastly, you’ll want to choose a spotlight that has a dial that allows you to direct the beam. By directing the beam of the spotlight, you can better scout your surroundings. Making sure you correctly identify the animal whose eyes are reflecting in the dark is important – you don’t want to end up bringing home a dead python.

So, take your hunts to the next level when you choose the best spotlight for coyote hunting. By adding the right spotlight to your hunting gear, you’re guaranteed to bag a few coyotes during fur season and any other night of the year. However, before heading out to the woods to hunt these creatures, you need to make sure that coyote hunting is legal in your state.

A Smart Buyer’s Guide: Top 4 Compact Binoculars

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At some point in your life, you’re probably going to encounter a situation where having the perfect compact binoculars on hand could become the greatest asset you have. As a result, you’ll first need to consider your needs, goals and budget when shopping for one. By comparing some of the top compact binoculars available on the market, you’ll soon be able to determine which will make the best choice for you.

compact binoculars

With all four of the top selections below being waterproof, fog proof and providing a Roof Prism, the considerations now is to look at the different sizes, eyecups, Field of Views (FOV) at 1000m, hinge designs, phase corrections and prices. However, with all that said, the most important thing to consider before making a purchase is still the purpose in which your compact binoculars will serve. Let’s take a closer look!

Steiner Safari Ultrasharp 8 x 22


The Steiner Safari Ultrasharp 8 x 22 is a starting point for anyone researching to buy a compact binoculars. It’s been named the 2014 Best Compact Binocular of the Year and has captured the attention and hearts of sporting enthusiast in a variety of arenas.

This beautiful and highly effective binoculars is perfect for the outdoorsman watching a sporting event from the upper decks, bird watching in the back yard or the rainforest, or scanning Mother Nature.

It weighs 228 grams and measures 11 x 10 cm. The Steiner also provides a thick multi-coated lens coating with a dual hinge design and a 125m FOV with rubber folding eyecups.

Although only offering a 22mm lens, which means it has a slightly smaller objective lens than some of the other brands which we’ll talk about in a while, the Steiner Safari Ultrasharp makes up for the couple of mm difference by providing you with a 10x magnification with an exit pupil of 2.75mm.

This binoculars is the only one of the top four which provides a rubber folding eyecup as opposed to the twist-up eyecups. In addition to the view and lens features, the Steiner comes in the world-renowned Safari body which has proven to be one of the most durable and super-rugged binocular bodies in the world.

With its price ranging between $150 and $200, the Steiner Safari is potentially the best bargain for your budget when looking for quality. The Steiner also consistently gains 4.5 to 5 star ratings from customers who have fallen in love with the clarity, low-light capability, and superior performance of this high quality pair of binoculars.

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10 x 25


Next to the Steiner Safari Ultrasharp 8 x 22, the second best choice for the outdoorsman is the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10 x 25. With a 25mm objective lens, this beauty has a larger objective lens than the Steiner Safari’s 22mm. The larger shaft, although a small difference, offers you an advantage in poor lighting.

For an indoor concert, this is a solid choice since the larger objective lens will create a brighter image. The Bushnell is also an ideal choice for bird watching in heavy covered woodlands or forests.

Additionally, the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD provides you with a lightweight and rugged magnesium chassis weighing 230g, just two grams more than the Steiner Safari UltraSharp.

The Bushnell, with the eyecups fully extended, measures 5.75”/146mm with a dual hinge design and comes with fully multi-coated lens coatings. However, unlike the Steiner Safari, the Bushnell offers twist-up eyecups and phase correction.

Bushnell does have some disadvantages, though, such as a smaller exit pupil of 2.5mm and a slightly higher price tag over the Steiner. But that said, Bushnell (in spite of its few cons) still provides a solid and reliable choice for the discerning shopper.

Hawke Sapphire ED 8 x 25


The Hawke Sapphire ED 8 x 25, at 231g, not only comes with a slightly heavier weight than the top two choices, it also carries a higher price tag. With prices ranging from $220 to $240, the Hawke may not be the top choice for budget savvy individuals. But for those willing to pay the price, the value matches the tag.

The Hawke brings a 3.1mm exit pupil with twist-up eyecups and a 119m FOV at 1000m. Similar to the Bushnell, the Hawke contains a dual hinge design with a roof prism, phase correction and ED glass.

With a 3.1mm exit pupil and a wider FOV, the Hawke is a better choice over the Steiner Safari UltraSharp for situations such as indoor concerts because of low lighting. The Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass offers a maximum clarity for the user with a BAK4 Prism, fully multi-coated lenses, and a quick ratio focus wheel.

An additional benefit is it comes with the Hawke Worldwide warranty.

Levenhuk Energy PLUS 8 x 25


For the budget conscious consumer who is looking for low-cost yet high quality compact binoculars, the Levenhuk Energy PLUS 8 x 25 is the ideal solution. Carrying a lower price tag that ranges from $65 to $80, the Levenhuk has the same 3.1 mm exit pupil as the Hawke. The difference is that it offers a longer 126m FOV at 1000m but commands a lower price tag than the Hawke.

The Levenhuk Energy offers a dual hinge design with twist-up eyecups and it makes the perfect choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor events such as bird or nature watching.

Although waterproof and fog proof, which is identical to the other three, the Levenhuk does not have phase correction or ED Glass. Additionally, it’s a little heavier than the other compact binoculars since it weighs 369g.

When choosing the best potential compact binoculars, the decision comes down to the purpose in which you’ll be using the binoculars, combined with a budget and your specific needs. By considering the top four choices in today’s compact binocular market, it’s a guarantee that you’ll find one that meets your needs and your budget.

Getting the Best Spotting Scope For Your Money

best spotting scope

If you are looking for a greater magnification than a standard pair of binoculars then you probably are going to need a spotting scope. A spotting scope can be used for a large number of purposes. The most popular reason or activity where to use one of these is bird spotting. Other uses may include simply watching wildlife or perhaps hunting. It does not matter the purpose really, as long as you know how to choose the best spotting scope for your money and your needs.

best spotting scope

The atmosphere is going to play a major role in the amount of zoom that your spotting scope can require. This means humidity, temperature, wind speed etc. The harsher the atmosphere, the more impact it is going to have on your spotting scope. However, you are obviously never going to get 100% clear conditions. Thats why we suggest do not choose anything over 60X. In some cases you may even want to go down to 40X (i.e. if the environment where you are using your spotting scope is very harsh)

If you want a good quality spotting scope at a low price, then you should look for one which utilizes BAK-4 Glass. This is NOT the best quality glass available on the optics market. There are other far better options out there. However, they tend to attract prices into the thousands of dollars which you probably do not want to spend.

So this way, you know you will get a high quality unit.  It is important to note that no matter how good the spotting scope is, the image quality will go down as magnification goes up. And that is completely normal.

By the other hand, if you are interested in detailed targets on longer distances then you may want to opt for the best spotting scope that you can afford. Yes, they are going to be expensive, but there is no point in purchasing a low quality spotting scope with a super magnification. You won’t be able to see anything and this is usually where most beginners mess up.

Remember; when you are searching for a good spotting scope you should attempt to read through as many reviews on the products available as you can. Reviews are important because they will enable you to determine the capability of the scope and also you can learn from other users experiences. So, get all the info you can and try to find out whether you are going to get good value for your money or your needs!

 

Choosing the Best Crossbow Scope

best crossbow scope

There are plenty of people out there who just love to use their crossbow without any sort of scope. However,  if you want to get the most accurate shots then you are going to need one. Crossbows are like any bow – the better the accessories, the better your results will be. On the following sections, we are going to give you some tips about how you can find the best crossbow scope that best meets your needs.

best crossbow scope

After you’ve decided to go for a scope for your crossbow, you will need either a red dot scope or a multi-reticle scope.

Generally speaking, choosing a good crossbow scope is not very different than choosing one for your regular rifle. One of the most important things to check is its optics quality. This ensures you actually have a clear view of the target (this is especially important when you really need to focus on the details of your target).

You are also going to want to think about the zoom level. Many people who are looking for the best crossbow scope seem to think that the higher the zoom level, the better. This is not always the case. In fact, you do not actually need a very high zoom level at all. If you are shooting targets at less than 100 yards (most cases), then you are not going to need anything more than 4X. If you go for a higher zoom level, you could have a narrow field of view and hitting targets will be harder. Some people may even drop down to 2X.

So, you should focus on the quality of the scope and its ability to ensure a highly accurate shot on your target.

Our best advice is to buy something that you are comfortable with. When you are searching for the best crossbow scope you need to make sure that you read through as many reviews as possible. There are plenty of low quality scopes out there that should be avoided. There are also a few high quality products out there which are nothing short of being a dud.

Looking for the best crossbow scope considering these tips will hopefully help you separate the top quality products from those which leave a lot to be desired.

 

Recommended resources:

How to Sight a Crossbow

Crossbow Red Dot and Multi-Reticle Scope Explanation

 

 

Selecting the Best Hunting Scope

best hunting scope1

Just like any other product out there you will find a massive selection of hunting scopes. Some scopes are fantastic. Others aren’t so great. In the following section, we will talk a little bit about how to find the best hunting scope for you.

First and foremost, you need to think about what you will be aiming for and how far away your target is going to be. Selecting the best hunting scope depends on individual conditions, such as type of rifle, terrain, shooting distance and perhaps light conditions. The scope’s reticle center must be adjusted to accurately indicate where a rifle’s bullet will hit at some predetermined range.

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In order to choose a hunting scope, you must check its optics. Lenses should ensure accuracy and produce a high quality image. Additional features to be considered include finish and durability. If you are performing in outdoor conditions you should also considerate weatherproofing, glare, and fog reduction features of the scope.

Another question you may ask yourself is… “Am I going to be shooting in the dark?” Well, if you are, then you should go down the route of a night vision hunting scope. Although they are going to cost you a lot more than your standard hunting scope, they are going to be a lot more useful.

Another tip is to never purchase a scope just because is cheap. You do not need to spend a fortune either. Just focus on finding the best value hunting scope for your needs. Usually you will find that cheap or lousy scopes lose their zero quite quickly making it hard to aim. Also, the optics are not going to be the best either.

Remember, when you are searching for the best hunting scope, whether it is for varmint hunting, deer hunting, or something completely different, you must make sure that you take the time to read through as many customers reviews as possible in order to choose the right for you.

 

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