How to Read Rifle Scope Specs: A Guide for Shooting Enthusiasts
When shopping for a new rifle scope, understanding the specs can be overwhelming for shooters of all levels. In this article, we will break down the intricacies of rifle scope specs to help you make an informed decision when purchasing the right scope for your shooting needs.
Why Should I Care About Scope Specs?
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand why you should care about rifle scope specs. A rifle scope can make or break a shooter’s performance, providing enhanced accuracy, range, and overall shooting experience. However, with so many features and options available, understanding the specs is crucial for selecting the best scope that meets your requirements and shooting style.
Common Terms You’ll Encounter
Rifle scope manufacturers often use jargon and technical terms, leaving many shooters in the dark. Here’s a crash course on some essential terminology:
- Eyelens: The length from the scope’s mount or ring to the lenses where you look through
- Objective lens diameter: The size of the lenses at the back of the scope, measuring 36mm, 44mm, or more
- Exit pupil diameter: The size of the projected light beam that your eyes see, measured in mm
- Zoom ring: The rotating dial at the top of the scope that adjusts the magnification
- Focus turrets: Dials located on the side or rear of the scope to adjust the parallax or brightness
- Exit pupil: The combination of lens and reticle systems projecting light to the eyepiece
- Torque: A specification showing the scope’s angular adjustability
Lens & Optics Specifications
Some of the most significant considerations when evaluating scope lenses are:
- Transmission Curve: The degree of visible light transmission (light throughput) through the objective lenses
- Reticle Pattern: The visual marking system on the cross-hair or red-dot illuminator
- Lens Coatings: Glass-based coatings that improve anti-glare, reflectivity, and light transmission (AR, HD, X6, etc.)
Eye Relief
- Eye Relief: The distance (range) between your shooting position and the lens.
A longer eye relief increases tolerance for head placement issues; shorter eye relief = close proximity.
| Objective | Eye Relief |
|---|---|
| Short (14.5mm – 34mm) | TDS, Tactical shooting; must be precise, small footprint |
| Midrange (38.7mm – 46mm) | Standard varmint, hunting; adjustable stance, decent space for gloved hands |
| Long (46mm – 53.1mm) | Larger guns, bench rest shooting, or long range optics |
