Rifle scope

Choose a riflescope for your type of hunting

A riflescope should suit the situations in which it will actually be used. A scope that performs well for driven hunting is not necessarily the obvious choice for stand hunting or shooting at longer distances.

For driven hunting and fast hunting situations, low minimum magnification and a wide field of view are often beneficial. Riflescopes around 1–6x or 1–8x make it easier to acquire the target quickly and follow movement at shorter distances.

For general-purpose hunting, models with a broader magnification range, such as around 2–12x or similar, offer a flexible solution. They combine relatively low magnification for shorter distances with the option of increasing magnification when needed.

For stand hunting, stalking and shooting at longer distances, higher magnification and a larger objective lens can be useful. Reticle design, field of view and optical quality also become increasingly important.

Riflescope magnification

Magnification is usually stated as figures such as 1–6x24 or 2–12x50. The first figures describe the magnification range, while the final number refers to the objective lens diameter in millimetres.

Lower magnification generally provides a wider field of view and is useful when it is important to acquire the target quickly. Higher magnification makes it easier to see detail and aim more precisely at longer distances.

More magnification is not always better. At higher magnification, the field of view generally becomes narrower and it may be more difficult to locate the target quickly. A useful magnification range is therefore often more important than the highest possible magnification.

24, 50 or 56 mm objective lens?

The objective lens diameter affects the scope's size, weight and performance in different lighting conditions.

A compact 24 mm objective lens is common on riflescopes designed for driven hunting, where low weight, low mounting height and a wide field of view are often priorities.

50 mm is a versatile all-round size that offers a good balance between overall dimensions and low-light performance.

A 56 mm objective lens is often chosen for hunting in lower light, such as stand hunting. A larger objective can provide better conditions for gathering light, but glass quality, lens coatings, magnification and overall construction also play an important role in the image you actually see.

Illuminated reticles and different reticle types

The reticle is the part of the riflescope used to aim and place the shot. Different reticle designs are intended for different types of hunting and shooting.

A simple reticle with a clear central aiming point can be quick and easy to use when hunting, while reticles with additional reference points may be useful when distance and bullet trajectory need to be considered.

An illuminated reticle can make the central aiming point easier to see against dark or visually complex backgrounds. On many hunting scopes, the brightness can be adjusted to suit the conditions.

The most suitable reticle therefore depends on the intended use and personal preference.

30 or 34 mm tube diameter?

The tube diameter must primarily match the mounting system. 30 mm and 34 mm are common sizes on modern riflescopes.

A larger tube diameter does not automatically mean better light transmission. It can, however, provide additional room for internal mechanics and a greater adjustment range, which may be relevant on scopes designed for longer distances.

Always check tube diameter, objective lens size and available mounting height before selecting rings or mounts.

Riflescopes from Swarovski Optik, GPO, Minox, Kahles, Hawke and Blaser

Vildmarken offers riflescopes across several price ranges and for different types of hunting. The range includes models from Swarovski Optik, GPO, Minox, Kahles, Hawke and Blaser.

The differences between models go beyond magnification and objective lens size. Optical quality, field of view, weight, reticle, illumination and construction all affect how a riflescope performs in practice.

Choose your riflescope according to how and where you hunt rather than focusing only on maximum magnification.

Riflescopes in store – demos, mounting and zeroing

At our store in Värmland, Sweden, you can view and compare several riflescopes and get help finding a model that suits your firearm and type of hunting.

We also offer riflescope mounting and zeroing, allowing you to get help throughout the process from choosing the optic to completing the installation.

Please contact us before your visit if you would like to confirm that a specific model is available for demonstration.