If you are new to Rifle Scopes and don't quite understand what certain features and specifications mean then check this quick guide out.
Are you looking to buy a rifle scope but don’t quite understand what it all means?
Ade from Optics Warehouse has simplified the common terminology associated with scopes and created a basic guide to help you understand.
Many terms and phrases describe rifle scopes, including features and specifications. Below is a list of common phrases and abbreviations that will be useful for anyone new to the sport. Keep in mind that different manufacturers may use similar terms that can vary in meaning.
What does Parallax mean?
Parallax is a feature that allows the scope and the image to remain in focus throughout its zoom or magnification range. The minimum distance it can focus determines its suitability for your rifle. Generally, a range of 10-15 yards is suitable for air rifles and rimfire ranges. If a scope lacks a parallax feature, it usually focuses at a fixed distance of 100 yards, which is mainly for centerfire use. The location of the parallax adjustment can vary by brand, such as:
- SWFA = Rear or Side
- IOR = Mid or Side
- HAWKE = Front or Side
Regardless of the location of the parallax on the scope, it performs the same function, although the overall cost may vary.
(Note: "Front AO" is the same as "Front Parallax/Focus Adjustment.")
What does Objective mean?
The objective refers to the front of the rifle scope. The numbers like 44, 50, or 56mm describe the size of the glass area. Keep in mind that the actual external measurement will be larger, which is important when selecting rings or flip-up covers.
What does Ocular/Eyepiece mean?
This term describes the eye end of the rifle scope, which is the first lens you look through when mounted. It usually has a diopter adjustment to allow the user to achieve a clear reticle image.
What does Eye Relief mean?
Eye relief is the optimal distance between your eye and the scope, which depends on the type of rifle and caliber. Pistol scopes typically have long eye relief since they are held at arm's length, while standard centerfire scopes usually have a few inches of eye relief to prevent "scope eye," which occurs when the scope recoils into the user's eye. Some air rifle scopes have zero eye relief due to the lack of recoil.
What are Turrets?
Turrets are the mechanisms that let the user adjust the point of impact. The top turret adjusts elevation, while the side turret adjusts windage. They may vary in direction (clockwise or counterclockwise). Turrets can be capped (for less frequent adjustments) or exposed (for ease of adjustments in a target shooting environment).
What does MOA/MRAD mean?
These terms describe the values that the turrets operate in. MOA is used in imperial measurements (yards/inches), while MRAD is used in metric measurements (centimeters/meters).
What does Elevation mean?
Elevation refers to the vertical adjustments of the reticle plane, allowing you to move your aim up or down. The elevation turret is typically located on top of the scope.
What does Windage mean?
Windage refers to the horizontal adjustments of the reticle, controlling the left-to-right aim. The windage turret is usually found on the right side of the scope.
What does Zeroing mean?
Zeroing is the process of adjusting both turrets (windage and elevation) to set the scope's aim correctly the first time you mount it. After zeroing, these turrets can be used for small adjustments in normal use.
What is the Main Tube?
The main tube is where your ring mounts attach. Its size can vary, ranging from 1 inch on older scopes to larger sizes like 30, 34, 35, 36, and 40mm.
Where is the Zoom/Mag Ring?
The zoom or magnification ring is located just in front of the ocular (eyepiece) on variable power scopes. It allows you to change the magnification. For example, a 3-9x40 scope has a minimum magnification of 3x and a maximum of 9x.
What does Zero Stop mean?
Zero Stop is a mechanical function on some scopes that allows you to set a physical stop in the turret travel, enabling you to return to your original zero setting. This is helpful if the turrets get moved during transport. This should not be confused with lockable turrets, which prevent inadvertent adjustments.
What is ED/HD Glass?
All rifle scopes have different coatings on their front lenses, which affect clarity, light transmission, and performance. Terms like extra dispersion, high definition (HD), and rainguard describe these coatings and their quality.
What is a Reticle?
Reticles come in many designs, from simple "Mil Dot" and "Duplex" to more complex types. They help guide your eye to the intended point of impact and can include various visual aids depending on the caliber and ballistics.
What does Illumination mean?
Illumination refers to the ability of the reticle to light up in some way, either just the center dot or the entire reticle. The controls for this feature are usually found on the left side of the scope.
This summary simplifies the explanations while maintaining key information about rifle scopes and their terminology.