Gearing Up For Hunting Season - Tips for Magnification Options in Riflescopes & Binoculars

Published on August 21, 2012
Duration: 4:25

Trevor Bendy from OpticsPlanet explains how to choose rifle scope and binocular magnification for hunting season. He covers low-power scopes (1.25-8x) for large game at close range, classic 3-9x scopes for general hunting, and higher magnification (4-12x and 5-20x) for stretching distance or varmint shooting. For binoculars, he recommends 8x magnification for scouting due to stability, with 10x as an option for increased range.

Quick Summary

Choosing the right rifle scope magnification for hunting is key. For general hunting, a 3-9x scope is versatile for medium to large game up to 300 yards. Low-power scopes (1.25-8x) are for close-range big game, while high-power (4-12x and up) suits varmints and long distances. For binoculars, 8x is ideal for scouting due to stability.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to Scope Magnification
  2. 00:22Low Power Scopes (1.25-8x)
  3. 00:53Classic 3-9x Magnification
  4. 01:25Extended Range Scopes (4-12x)
  5. 01:57High Power Scopes (5-20x)
  6. 02:25Rifle Scope Magnification Summary
  7. 02:43Importance of Binoculars for Hunting
  8. 03:02Compact Binoculars (8x20)
  9. 03:25Larger Objective Binoculars (8x42)
  10. 03:42Higher Magnification Binoculars (10x42)
  11. 04:07Conclusion on Magnification Choices

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best rifle scope magnification for general hunting?

The 3-9x magnification range is considered a classic and versatile choice for most hunters. It's effective for medium to large game at distances from 50 yards up to 300 yards and beyond, depending on your skill level.

When should I use a low-power rifle scope for hunting?

Low-power rifle scopes, such as 1.25-8x or 2-7x, are best suited for hunting large game at closer distances, typically under 100 to 150 yards. This is ideal for animals like moose or cape buffalo in dense cover or at short range.

What magnification is best for varmint hunting or long-range shots?

For varmint hunting or stretching your distance to 400-500 yards, higher magnification scopes like 4-12x, 3-15x, or even 5-20x are recommended. These allow for better target acquisition and detail on smaller targets at extended ranges.

What is the ideal magnification for hunting binoculars?

For hunting binoculars, an 8x magnification is generally recommended. It offers a good balance of magnification for scouting out to 600-800 yards while minimizing hand shake, which is crucial for stable viewing during extended glassing periods.

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