by Corey Graff
It is odd that more has not been written about gun scope models and options. Think about it: An accurate .308 rifle is … just an accurate .308 rifle.
With one scope it’s an adequate deer gun. Install a different style, say a forward-mounted high eye relief model, and it becomes a scout rifle. Or stick a tactical-style scope on that gun and you’ve got a 1,000+ meter tack-driver. That’s quite a difference.
You can start to see that even within these broad categories you’re only getting warmer.
Making a purchasing decision on a new scope is a Herculean task even after you’ve narrowed down what you want in general terms.
Looking for a good value in a mid-priced deer scope? No problem. You only have hundreds of scope makers from which to choose, any one of which may offer literally dozens or hundreds of variations of scopes fitting that definition. And each year they introduce new models and features (just to keep you on your toes).
And we haven’t even started talking about reticles. Yet, as small a detail as a scope’s reticle may seem, it can make or break its function as it relates to your shooting goals.
Just deciding on magnification level can give any gun owner the sweats. There are variable power and fixed power.
Heck, different scopes speak completely different languages. There are MOA-based scopes, or Mil-reticle scopes with MOA-based turrets. There are ¼ MOA turrets, ½ MOA turrets and even 1MOA turrets or some combination thereof. It’s like the optical Tower of Babel.