Do I Need an Expensive Scope for My Hunting Rifle?
It’s a common piece of advice in the firearms community: “Spend as much on your scope as you do on your rifle.” While this is well-intentioned, the truth is more complex. For most hunters in Canada, the need for an expensive scope depends entirely on their specific hunting style, the environment they hunt in, and the typical distances they shoot. While you don’t always need a high-end optic, there are distinct, tangible benefits to a quality investment.
When a Moderately Priced Scope Is Enough
For the average hunter pursuing medium-sized game like deer or bear at distances under 200 yards, a moderately priced scope is often more than enough. Brands like Vortex, Leupold, and Burris offer excellent “budget-friendly” options in the $300-$600 range that are reliable and effective. These scopes typically provide:
- Reliable Zero: They will hold their zero shot after shot, which is the most critical function of any optic.
- Clear Daylight Performance: The glass is sharp and clear enough to make an ethical shot in good light.
- Simple Functionality: With straightforward duplex reticles and capped turrets, they are easy to use and require no complex adjustments in the field.
For a hunter who sticks to open woods or clearings and takes shots at reasonable distances, an expensive scope is simply not a necessity.
When an Expensive Scope is Worth the Investment
The “you get what you pay for” adage truly shines when conditions become challenging. A high-end scope isn’t a luxury; it’s a tool that can provide a critical advantage in specific scenarios.
- Low-Light Performance: This is the most significant difference. The best scopes feature superior glass and anti-reflection coatings that maximize light transmission at dawn and dusk—the most important times for hunting. This can be the difference between making a clean, ethical shot and not being able to see your target at all.
- Durability and Repeatability: High-end scopes are built to withstand abuse. Their internal components are more robust, and their turrets are designed to “track true,” meaning a click on the dial reliably moves the point of impact by the exact amount every time. This is crucial for long-range shooters who dial for elevation and windage. A quality scope will hold its zero even after a fall or a rough ride on an ATV.
- Superior Clarity and Eyebox: Expensive scopes provide a crisp, clear image from edge to edge with no distortion. They also have a more generous “eyebox”—the area you can move your eye within while maintaining a full sight picture. A forgiving eyebox allows for faster target acquisition and more stable aiming, which is invaluable when a fleeting opportunity presents itself.
Conclusion: Matching Your Gear to Your Hunt
Ultimately, the best advice is to match your scope to your needs and your budget. If you are a casual hunter who takes shots in well-lit conditions at common ranges, a reliable, moderately priced scope is a perfect choice.
However, if you plan to hunt at long distances, in dense forests, or during the low light of early morning and late evening, the investment in a high-end scope is a significant ethical and practical advantage. A quality scope will not only help you see better but will also provide the confidence and reliability to make a clean and humane shot every time.
To find the perfect scope for your hunting rifle and budget, visit us at Rangeview Sports in Newmarket, Ontario. Our experts can help you compare options and find the one that fits your needs.
