You’re ready to go shooting or hunting, but your scope always seems a little off. What now?
Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a recreational shooter, you need a great scope to keep your shooting accurate.
But what brands are leading the pack in 2024? Today we’re taking a closer look at the essentials of a good scope and the best scope brands you should know about.
Basics of Firearm Optics
When setting up a gun, every part plays a role. A scope is one of these key parts.
It’s like a partner to your gun that helps you see targets more clearly and aim more accurately.
Think of a gun like a car. Just as you choose the best tires for a smooth drive, you pick a scope to improve your shooting. Scopes are not just add-ons; they are essential for anyone who wants to use their gun well.
They come in many types, each designed for a specific kind of shooting and gun setup.
Types of Optics
There are different optics for different needs. Some are simple, like the red dot.
This optic helps you aim quickly, making it great for fast shooting. Then there are holographic sights. They project a hologram of a reticle in front of your eyes.
This type is good for quick target acquisition. Another kind is the variable power magnified scope. It lets you change the magnification. This means you can use it for both close and distant targets.
Fixed scopes are simpler. They have a set magnification and work well for specific distances.
There are many types of scopes, each designed for different shooting activities. Whether you are shooting at a range, hunting, or in a competition, there is a scope that fits your needs. Understanding these basics will help you choose the right scope for your gun.
Choosing a Firearm Scope
When you’re picking a scope for your firearm, it’s like choosing the right tool for a job. You need to think about a few important things.
Magnification and Lens Quality
First, consider magnification. This is how much closer the target appears through the scope. If you’re shooting at things far away, you need higher magnification.
But for closer targets, less magnification works better. It’s all about finding the right balance for your shooting distance.
Lens quality is also key. A good lens gives you a clear and bright view. This is important for seeing details, especially in low light. High-quality lenses can make a big difference in your shooting accuracy. If you ever have a choice between lens quality and higher magnification, choose the higher-quality lenses.
Reticle Types and Illumination
Reticles are the lines or patterns you see when you look through a scope. They help you aim.
There are many types of reticles. Some are simple crosshairs, while others have more details for specific types of shooting. The right reticle can help you aim better and shoot more accurately.
Illumination in a reticle is helpful too. It makes the reticle stand out against the background. This is especially useful in dim light or against dark targets.
Some scopes let you adjust the brightness of the illumination. This way, you can get the right contrast no matter the light conditions.
Scope Build and Material
Finally, think about the build and material of the scope. A well-built scope can handle recoil and rough use. It should also be weather-resistant.
You might use your gun in rain, snow, or dusty conditions. A durable scope can handle all of this.
The material of the scope matters too. Most scopes are made of metals like aluminum. This makes them strong yet light. The weight of the scope affects how you handle your gun.
A heavy scope might make the gun hard to hold steady. A light scope is easier to manage.
In short, when choosing a scope, think about magnification, lens quality, reticle type, and the build and material of the scope. These factors will help you find a scope that suits your shooting needs.
The Best Firearm Scope Brands of 2024
In 2024, the market is filled with many great firearm scope brands. Each brand creates gun parts with its own strengths and unique features. Here, we’ll look at some of the top brands and what makes them stand out.
Vortex Optics
Vortex Optics is known for its high-quality scopes. They offer a wide range, from beginner to professional levels. One popular model is the Vortex Razor HD Gen II or III.
It’s known for its clear optics and durable design. It has a variable magnification range, which means you can use it for both close and long-range shooting.
Vortex also offers a great warranty. This shows they stand behind their products.
Leupold
Leupold is another leading name in firearm scopes. Their scopes are known for being tough, lightweight, and reliable.
The Leupold VX-6HD is a favorite among hunters. It gives clear images even in low light. This is important for hunting at dawn or dusk. The scope is also waterproof and fog-proof.
This makes it great for outdoor use in different weather conditions. Leupold scopes are a bit pricey, but they are a good investment for serious shooters.
Aimpoint
Aimpoint is renowned for its reliable red dot sights, which are favored by both military and civilian shooters. The Aimpoint Pro Patrol Rifle Optic is particularly popular for its durability and ease of use.
It offers quick target acquisition, which is essential in high-pressure situations. Aimpoints are known for their long battery life and rugged construction, making them a solid choice for all types of shooting conditions.
Burris
Burris is another respected name in the scope industry, known for its innovative designs, fair prices, and high-quality optics. The Burris Veracity series, for example, is highly regarded among hunters for its advanced ballistics calculator and precision at long ranges.
Burris scopes often feature high-quality glass and robust construction, providing clear images and reliable performance in various environments.
Eotech
Eotech is famous for its holographic weapon sights, offering fast target acquisition and a unique reticle pattern.
The Eotech EXPS3, for example, is a top choice for tactical shooters. Its holographic sights are known for exceptional clarity and reliability in all light conditions.
Holosun
Holosun has gained popularity for offering high-quality optics at a more affordable price.
Their optics, such as the Holosun HS510C, are known for innovative features like solar power backup and multiple reticle options. Holosuns scopes are praised for their innovation, versatility, and durability.
Nightforce
Nightforce is synonymous with high-end precision scopes, often used by professional shooters and snipers.
The Nightforce ATACR series, for example, is known for its exceptional clarity, rugged build, and advanced adjustment capabilities, making it a top choice for long-range shooting.
Primary Arms
Primary Arms has made a name for itself with scopes that offer great value.
Their scopes, like the Primary Arms SLx series, are known for their quality optics and innovative features, such as the ACSS reticle, which enhances accuracy and speed for a variety of shooting applications.
Practical Considerations for Gun Owners
When you own a gun and are looking to add a scope, there are practical things to think about. These are as important as choosing the right brand.
Compatibility with Firearms
First, you need to make sure the scope fits your gun. Not all scopes work with all guns. The type of gun you have will guide your choice. For example, a scope for a hunting rifle might not fit a handgun.
The mounting system is key. Make sure the scope can be securely attached to your gun. A good fit means better accuracy and safety.
Also, consider the weight and size of the scope. A heavy scope can make the gun hard to handle. This is important if you will be carrying the gun for long periods, like in hunting.
The size of the scope should match the size of your gun. A big scope on a small gun might look odd and affect balance.
Legal and Safety Aspects
Owning a gun and a scope also means knowing the laws. Gun laws can be different from place to place. Some areas have strict rules about what kind of scopes are allowed.
For example, some places do not allow scopes with night vision. Make sure you know the laws in your area. This will keep you from getting into legal trouble.
Safety is another big thing to think about. Using a scope means you can shoot at things farther away. This requires extra care.
Always know what is beyond your target. Remember, a bullet can travel a long way. It’s important to be sure of your target and what is behind it.
Scope Brands of 2024
Choosing the right firearm scope is crucial for enhancing your shooting experience.
Remember, the best scope brands vary based on your specific needs and preferences. Stay informed, consider user feedback, and prioritize safety in your selection.
RKB Armory is run by a lifelong gun enthusiast and Marine Corps veteran. Visit our site today to learn about optics and gun accessories, and check out our current selection for sale! And talk to us if you’ve got scopes to sell!