Get the jump on the deer this hunting season. Optimize rifle performance, and shoot more accurate. Choose from the latest options in hunting optics, from mounted rifle scopes to detachable tripod optics.
Find the perfect scope. Standard rifle scopes are mounted atop a rifle and function as a magnification lens, offering increased accuracy with distance firing. A rifle sco pe also helps make hunting trips safer, because hunters can visualize the target - as well as any surrounding area - much more clearly. For the greatest accuracy, select a laser scope. This is also mounted on the rifle, and emits a laser beam that focuses on the rifle's target.
Spotting scopes offer versatility and flexibility. They can either be held in a hunter's hands, or mounted atop a camera or tripod. For best night vision, choose a night vision scope that features the latest in night vision technology. This permits the amplification of ambient lighting and colors the targeted image green. Certain night vision scopes are also equipped with internal infrared illumination capabilities.
Before purchasing a scope, check the hunting rifle to ensure that it was designed with predrilled holes that can be used to attach a scope mount. Scope mounts feature a scope ring and a scope base. The base is attached to the rifle by inserting the posts into the predrilled holes, while the scope ring, or rings, hold and secure the scope onto the rifle.
For the greatest accuracy in marksmanship, invest in a range finder. These use a laser to measure the exact distance between the hunter and his or her target. Choose range finders that are accurate to the required distance; the distance to which a range finder is accurate is included in the product's name.
Compact and standard sized binoculars are also helpful hunting objects. These help the hunter to survey an area and locate a target. Monoculars are also helpful. These devices can be placed on a tripod or used as handheld hunting optics. Many are also equipped with night vision capabilities.
Many different factors determine the type of hunting optics that will be needed. First, the type of hunt planned will determine the best choice for hunting optics. For example, those who intend to get close to their targets, or expect at most to shoot from a medium range, will probably find a laser scope most helpful. Scopes with a wider field-of-view are also helpful for narrowing in on close targets.
If the distance to the target is likely to be quite far, a scope or even a set of binoculars with strong magnification and a large lens diameter will be helpful for locating the target. Frequently moving targets may require a scope with good eye relief. This is also very important for those wearing corrective lenses or sunglasses.
Hunting optics are an excellent resource, but they do add to carrying weight. Some models are heavier than others, so determine how much carrying weight is acceptable. Fixed magnification scopes, as well as those with a smaller-sized objective lens, will weigh less than those with larger lenses. Furthermore, remember that compact binoculars do not weigh as much as standard binoculars do.
Good hunting optics can mean the difference between a shot in the dark and a successful hit. For low lighting conditions, choose a rifle scope that will maximize ambient light and provide better visualization. For conditions with minimal light, choose a scope equipped with a sizable objective lens.
Night vision scopes are essential for hunting in the night, and high quality night vision scopes range from 1st generation scopes, offering the lowest visual clarity, to 4th generation scopes, offering the greatest clarity. For poor weather conditions, consider using waterproof or fog-proof binoculars or scopes. These hunting optics feature well-coated, highly protected lenses.
Choosing Features Wisely
Learn the terms and numbers important to choosing the best hunting optics for the situation. Some important terms include magnification, objective lens diameter, field-of-view, exit pupil, and eye relief.
Magnification describes how much closer the object will appear to be. This name can be fixed, or may offer a range. The majority of rifle scopes, for example, are equipped with variable powers of magnification. In comparison, objective lens diameter is also called aperture, which is measured in millimeters. Typically, hunting scopes feature objective lenses between 40 and 50 mm in diameter. Magnification and objective lens diameter are two of the most important components for hunting optics. For this reason, the scope's name usually contains this information.
Eye relief is measured as a range. An eye relief between 3 and 4 inches is usually satisfactory for most hunters. This refers to the distance from which the hunter can hold his or her eye from the scope and still view the entire field of view. Field-of-view is described in terms of feet, and refers to the amount of area that is viewable at a distance of 1,000 yards. Higher numbers describe a larger viewing area.
One final important consideration is the exit pupil. This refers to the size of the light leaving the hunting optic. It is measured by dividing the objective lens diameter by magnification. Typically, large exit pupils result in a brighter image.
Hunting optics offer added safety and visualization. Investing this extra money in hunting gear can mean the difference between bringing down a buck with 12-point antlers and tragedy. Enjoy the comfort and security of aiming at the right target when you pull the trigger.