A crucial next step after purchasing a firearm is to find an optic that works for you. Sure, you can shoot with irons. But if you want to get any solid range and consistency out of your rifle, especially at longer ranges, a reliable optic can make a huge difference.
Equally important is finding a rifle scope that plays to your shooting style's strengths, and helps you accomplish your goals. Getting an optic that is tailor made for your use case can make a huge difference, too. Whether you're hunting, protecting your cattle, or just doing some target shooting - the right optic can make all the difference. So, what do you pick?
Below we'll have some considerations and use cases - as well as some recommendations for the types of optics that would work well in various scenarios. If our article helps you, consider checking out one of our optic partners below. Using one of our affiliate links and promo codes not only saves you money, but it also helps to support our work, while keeping ads off our site for your enjoyment. Had an experience with one of their optics before? Share it with us in the comments below, and come by our Discord community - the link for which is in the Links menu at the top of this page.
MOA or MRAD?
Two different ways to measure the same thing. This is a long debated conversation. Minute of Angle versus Miliradian. Which is better? Well, the answer might surprise you. It's neither! What's better is what works better for you. Some folks prefer MOA, others prefer MRAD. While there are some objective differences, such as that MOA typically uses the imperial measurement system while MRAD uses metric. And, MOA is VERY slightly more precise (although this also depends on how fine your scope's turret adjustments are). Sparing the specific details for another article, the choice really just depends on what system you're used to, or which one you prefer. You can be deadly accurate with either, if the quality of the optic is up to snuff.
1x, LPVO or High Power?
1x optics offer a 1x magnification and include things like red dots and holographic sights. Generally speaking these offer very fast target acquisition, unlimited eye relief and very low weight. Though, as the name suggests, there's no zoom capability, so these optics are often best for short range engagements. Thankfully there's plenty of super affordable red dots out there. They're almost as ubiquitous as peanut butter and jam sandwiches - so they're easy to find and often very affordable to own - not to mention easy to use.
LPVO stands for Low Power Variable Optic. Something like a 1-6 is considered an LPVO. It means that you have a particularly low magnification level, in a nominal range, usually from 1x (like a red dot or holographic sight might provide) up to 4, 6, and even sometimes 8x. Some higher end LPVOs can also extend out to 10x zoom, but they are typically a lot more expensive. The trade off is that these are larger and heavier than 1x solutions, and almost always more expensive too. However, they offer a reliable way to adjust your magnification as needed which allows for various shooting activities and flexibility that a 1x just couldn't provide.
High power optics are exactly what they sound like - high magnification optics that often have very high power levels, specifically on the maximum magnification end. Some examples are 4-16, 5-25 or 6-36. Some optics go even beyond that - offering staggeringly high zoom ranges for extreme long range, precision or competition shooting. In addition to this, many high end zoom optics are tailored for long range engagements, and include features to accommodate you in those situations. That might include better quality glass, specialized coatings, advanced controls and more. With that often comes more expense, and much more weight. PRS optics specifically are VERY heavy compared to an LPVO or 1x optic, but they offer you the tools to be successful at extreme ranges, and often times the weight helps you to mitigate recoil when using larger calibers.
What you pick ultimately matters based on what you're doing. If you're looking for a light rifle for target shooting at short distances, you might want a 1x optic. Looking for something more adaptable but still very affordable? An LPVO might be what you need. Want to reach out and touch something a kilometer away? Maybe check out a long range high magnification optic.
Target Shooting
This is probably the most common yet the most disputed use case for choosing one type of optic over another. Target shooting isn't the same for everyone. Some people like plinking 10-25m away from their targets, and others enjoy shooting at bear sized steel targets nearly 1,000m away. Regardless, it's best to choose something that fits within your budget and accommodates your shooting style. There's no wrong choice, just what you're willing to work with, afford, and are likely to enjoy most. If you're just looking for a basic optic to stick onto your 10/22 for some close quarters paper plinking, a 1x or LPVO might be right up your alley. For longer engagements, a mid to high zoom optic might be just what you need.
Hunting
There's a little more objectivity when recommending an optic for hunting. You need an intermediate zoom optic that will be light enough to carry around with you all day - but one that will offer you sufficient magnification based on what you're hunting. Something like a 3-12 or 4-16 is generally good - but you may need more or less based on your use case. Many manufacturers often have a hunting lineup of optics that offers a wide range of magnification options, with simple controls and a lightweight design which would work well in this category.
Varmints
Protecting livestock and pets is a very common use of firearms and is often overlooked when choosing the right optic for the job. In such a case, accuracy is extremely important, especially when shooting on your own property and in close proximity to other property, roads or infrastructure. In such a case, an optic that focuses on intermediate zoom ranges and exceptional accuracy (often times with finer turret adjustments to make sure you're dialed in just right) is going to be paramount. Often times this also intersects nicely with hunting optics, and it's possible to find one that will be good for both use cases.
Competition
Competitive shooters come in all shapes and sizes - just like their guns and optics! But depending on what you're doing (IPSC, IDPA, 3 Gun, Action, Cowboy, etc) you'll want an optic that enhances your experience and your accuracy.
For pistol disciplines you'll want a reliable 1x optic that you can comfortably install on your pistol of choice. Something that's light weight and easy to handle will be the ideal choice - especially if it helps you keep both eyes open and be aware of your surroundings while being able to acquire targets quickly.
For rifle and shotgun, 1x optics are also very good because they offer very fast target acquisition, often with both eyes opened while shooting for added situational awareness. A holographic optic might work too - many provide excellent visibility and often even work well with conditions like astigmatism. However, competition doesn't stop there.
There's also extremely competitive long range shooting too, not to mention PRS (Precision Rifle Shooting). And for that you'll need a long range optic that has a reticle which will allow you to size up targets, distances, and allow you to hold over to account for things like wind and bullet drop.
The Right Choice
Don't be dissuaded or discouraged when someone tells you that your setup isn't right or good enough. Remember that what's right is what's right for you. And that will vary from shooter to shooter. Disciplines, types of firearm, personal preference, shooting style and so many other things will affect your options and your choices.
Don't act spontaneously - take your time and research the optic that will work best for your situation. What works for you might not for someone else, and that's alright. There's plenty of choice out there, and what you choose should speak to how you enjoy shooting, and what will most adequately help you achieve your goals.
That said, we have a couple of partners down below that make some awesome optics. The CO staff have had experience with both manufacturers' optics, and we found them to be generally very affordable, very good quality for the price, and often an excellent value (coming with extras that you'd have to usually pay for). If you need some help picking, let us know, and make sure to join our Discord community to continue the conversation further. You can find the link for our Discord community in the Links menu, at the top of this page.
Discovery Optics
Discovery Optics, also known as DiscoveryOpt, is a prominent manufacturer of sports optical products, specializing in rifle scopes. Founded in 1998 under the corporate name Zhangjiajie Youniao Optical Instrument Co., Ltd., the company has grown to become a well-known brand globally, recognized for its diverse product range that balances quality and competitive pricing.
Link: https://discoveryopt.com/discount/CAOperator
Promo Code: CAOperator or CanadianOperator
Vector Optics
Vector Optics is a manufacturer of sports optical products, specializing in rifle scopes and a wide range of accessories. Founded in 2007 by Xusheng "Stephen" Shen, the company was born from a passion for shooting sports and a determination to produce high-quality optics in China. This mission was aimed at changing the global perception of "Made in China" products and has since helped the brand gain widespread recognition.
Link: https://global.vector2007.com/?ref=canadianoperator
Promo Code: CANOP10