Getting the best scope accurate for long-range precision shooting is an intricate task. It’s important to consider numerous factors. The correct scope will make a huge difference in your shot, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned marksman or an inexperienced one.
Understanding Long-Range Distances
Shooting distances differ greatly when considering each person’s experience and the situations in which they find themselves hunting. For instance, a white-tail deer hunter from East Tennessee may consider 200 yards long-range, while a ranch owner in West Texas might consider three miles a long shot, which he takes with his custom Cheytac 408. The distance can be divisible in the following way:
Mid Range: 200 to 600 yards
Long Range: 600 to 1200 yards
– Extreme Long Range: 1200 yards to one mile
– Extended ELR: Over one mile
Let’s say engagements from 750 through 1800 yards for our purposes. Because scopes are a very personal thing, mixed in with a lot of budget considerations. As a long-range shooting coach for hire, I can honestly say I’ve recommended more than a few times to invest in really good glass or quality optics. If you are going to purchase a scope, just north of $1,000 will usually bring decent quality, but well over $2,100 will bring exceptional quality. Again, if you are tight on budget, there are great starting points out there at the $300 price point.
It also comes down to your personality and shooting habits. For example, if you are meticulous and like to calculate everything before the shot, then high-end equipment, such as a 10-set Wind Sensor Array, will be of great advantage to you. In case you have a cold-bloodedly easy-going approach to shooting, a scope from the middle range will be enough.
Of course, the choice will be dictated by the primary objective you will be using your long-range scope. Will you be hunting in rough terrains or shooting off a solid bench rest? Do you reside somewhere where there are open areas, or is your place filled with tall, thick vegetation and trees?
For instance, a businessman who is a bench rest shooter and has neck problems does not require something rugged for outdoor use from a high-end scope. At least 18x magnification, and preferably 25x power scope, in this case, would suffice.
Elden Dalley agrees that among the top considerations are tracking and reticle accuracy, which are of paramount importance. He recommends that the tracking on the scope be verified using a tall target test and that you ensure the reticle subtends are correct. He also recommends good rings and bases, not less than 20 MOA built-in, besides lapping the rings to avoid stressing the scope.
He further stressed the simplicity of the reticle design, adding that in any case of stress, counting small marks can be time-consuming. Dalley also warns serious long-range shooters against using entry-level equipment, saying it can lead to frustration and waste money.
The choice has to be made right to fit long-range precision shooting, understanding your shooting distances, budget, personal preference, and the environment in which you will be shooting. With those factors in play, you are best placed to identify the expert and look for a scope that serves your needs, therefore upgrading your shooting experience.