How to choose scope features

[Rob Roy]

How do you choose magnification, zoom or not?

[brando]

Depends on what you plan to use the scope for. The higher magnification, the smaller the field of view (FOV) and often less elevation adjustment. Different reticles for different uses too, first focal plane for reticle ranging vs. static second focal plane, MOA vs Mil adjustment, larger objective lens for low light gathering. The list goes on and on.

[Mstnpete]

Here's a good article on selecting rifle scopes.

http://www.alpharubicon.com/leo/selectscope.htm

[crazyfinn]

I've been pondering this subject as well. I do mainly target shooting so my answer will be diferent than if you are plinking or hunting.

I currently use a Simmons Mag 22 3-9x AO which is a nice scope. But at about 100 yds I can no longer pick out where my bullet hit the target. So then it's shoot a few and hike on down to look. Pain in the ***.

I also find I leave the magnification at 9x for target irregardless of distance.

I'm now thinking that the best for 22 target shooting would be the Weaver 24xT or 36xT fixed target scope. I want to see where the round hits without the hike. I see no reason to adjust for target but thats just me.

The Simmons will be on my second 10/22 which will be a plinker.