The term "optic" is used to describe all the devices used to improve the sighting capabilities on your rifles. They make it easier to locate, see, and as a result, hit what it is your are aiming at, if you do your part. Before we go any further, please understands that I am a firm believer in the power of iron sights & feel that every shooter should learn to use them before any other. Now that we have that out of the way, let's break down the types of optics.
This has been a long awaited, much requested topic. It's finally time to talk about rifle optics! The term "optic" is used to describe all the devices used to improve the sighting capabilities on your rifles. They make it easier to locate, see, and as a result, hit what it is your are aiming at, if you do your part. Before we go any further, please understands that I am a firm believer in the power of iron sights & feel that every shooter should learn to use them before any other. Now that we have that out of the way, let's break down the types of optics. I like to break down optics into 3 categories: dots, scopes, and night vision. Maybe the most familiar types of optics are dot sights. They can be red dots, green dots, or sometimes both. As the name indicates, they are characterized by an illuminated dot or some other similar reticle that is cast over the bullet's intended point of impact. These optics usually have little to no magnification and are great for shots made from 0 - 300 yards. These types of optics are usually smaller and lighter than the others. Depending on the mounts used to secure them to your rifle, many dot optics allow the shooter to use iron sights in the event that the optic malfunctions. This is called co-witnessing. When it comes to making shots beyond that 300 yard effective range that dot optics allow, it doesn't get much better than a scope. Scopes are typically used on larger caliber rifles that are capable of shooting flat trajectories over larger distances. Because these rifles are made to shoot much further than the typical human can see, some degree of magnification is almost always used. Scopes are typically larger than dot optics and use a number of different lenses to enlarge targets. Most people will instantly think of hunters or snipers when they see a scope. Night vision scopes are, in my opinion, the coolest and least often used type of optics. One, because most people don't have the need to shoot much in the dark and 2, because they cost a shit load of money! To be honest, that's not a huge surprise. I mean, how much do you really expect an optic that does what a red dot and scope does to cost? Not to mention, it does it at night! As one can imagine, having all these capabilities can increase the bulk of the optic as well as its price. Night vision scopes are probably the heaviest optics that will mount on a rifle. Of course, some may choose to mount their night vision on their person, but that's another discussion for another day. Even with all the types of optics discussed today, and all the great scientific improvements that they have, they can not make anyone a better shooter. Only practice and training can accomplish that. Also, go ahead and put backup sights on your rifle. Glass breaks and batteries die when you least expect it.
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AuthorKeep in mind that I am by no means a gun expert. I have had some safety, handling, and shooting training, but nowhere near the amount I feel is needed to claim the "expert" title. With that being said, I am a man that owns a LOT of firearms, knives, and gear! I have been shooting since I could hold a rifle and have even competed in and won a few competitions. The advice and tips that I give are based on personal experience, but are by no means to be taken as law. Please consult a trained, certified professional for all your firearms needs. Enjoy! Archives
May 2016
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