optics

When it comes to long-range shooting, the ultimate goal is a single shot on the exact point of the target you want to hit. If you’re a hunter, there are no chances to take when shooting at long range. Miss by an inch and the game is gone. You need to get everything right from the start if you’re going to hit your target at the dead-center.

A rifle scope is probably the most important component you will need to get a precise shot. This is your fire control system connecting you and your target. However, choosing the best rifle scope is no easy task. There are several variables to take into control especially when choosing a rifle scope for long-range shooting.

The Activity of the Rifle Scope

The simple rule to follow is one rifle scope, one job. Of course, you’re not going to get maximum benefits, but every different activity requires a different rifle scope. Are you hunting long-range or competing in 1000 yards shooting activity? Choose what best suits your activity but remember there are basic features every scope must have for precise shooting.

Main Features to Consider When Choosing a Rifle Scope for Long Range Shooting.

Ability to Maintain Zero

You need to choose a scope that retains measurement from one shooting session to the next. We must not lose the zero as this is what gives us the ability to adjust correctly. The ability for scopes to maintain zero is a MUST for long range shooting where there are no shots where to hit.

Adjustment Reliability and Accuracy

The best rifle scopes for long range shooting need to be very reliable and accurate in adjustments. They are precision tools with adjustments in fractions of thousandths of radiant, MRAD or fractions of minutes of angles, MOA. They must have an efficient internal mechanism to meet these accuracies.

The value of the regulations needs to be the exact click when you adjust. However, this is usually not the case with most scopes. Most people don’t realize this at short distances when shooting at long ranges, the errors multiply and you most likely miss. You can easily check if your scope loses clicks by zeroing it and rotating it all the way before setting to zero and shooting again.

Adequate Total Elevation Adjustment

A lot of elevation adjustment is required when aiming at further distances. The total elevation adjustment you choose on the scope must meet your needs. When scopes are zeroed, half of the elevation adjustment is burned. This is something you also need to consider when buying a scope for long range shooting.

Parallax Adjustment

Parallax adjustment is another essential feature to consider when you need extreme accuracy at long ranges. It helps you avoid parallax error.

AR-15 Long Range Shooting Application

The quality of the scope chosen will determine your long-range shooting success. There are myriads of scopes out there to choose. Let’s take for example the AR-15 which has an infinite number of applications. Its ideal scope will depend on the exact use of the AR-15. There are many scope options for the AR-15 as the rifle itself. So, how do you go about choosing the best scope for the AR-15?

• Don’t choose more magnification than you need. Most people prefer more magnification, but this also magnifies the natural wobble. The field of view also diminishes with over-magnification.
• You also need to consider the reticle size and nature of your target. The reticle size might block your target when shooting at long ranges. This makes it quite hard to shoot with precision. A red dot is the best when shooting at moving targets.

Conclusion

Choosing the best rifle scope for long-range shooting should not be difficult if you know features to consider, the task of the rifle and nature of the target. The optic you choose is what makes a rifle. If you’re serious about long-range shooting, you need to invest time and a quality long-range rifle scope.

I would suggest you to read USFCLASS and check out their top rated long range scope out there! Make sure you understand the best hunting times, conditions, range and choose a binocular with matching specs.

Long range shooting comes with a lot of technicalities. To get it right, there are lots of things you need to pay attention to from getting your new long range scope, to setting it up, and finally getting the right shot. People generally make mistakes when it comes to long range shooting.

A fast one would be assuming that it is just the same as the close range shooting. There are many other mistakes that people especially newbies make and we’re here to highlight them. Not only that, we’ll give you the best way to avoid them. Well, here are the seven most common mistakes people make in long range shooting.

7 Mistakes in Long Range Shooting

Knowing about liable mistakes is the best way to avoid making them. If you are aware of it, the chances of making them would be less. Let’s get right into it, shall we?

• Choosing the Wrong Long Range Scope

We can’t stress enough the need for choosing the right long range scope. When it comes to making the right choice, people make two disadvantageous assumptions:

• Believing that Your Scope Should Cost As Much As Your Rifle

Rifles cost a lot and most people believe that to get a good long range scope, it needs to be as expensive as their rifle. This assumption is very wrong and can lead to choosing the wrong long range scope. While this would eventually affect your budget to get other ammunition for practice, focusing on cost would deter you from the other important factors. While some long range scopes can be ridiculously expensive, some manufacturers have worked on getting more functional and affordable options. These rifle scopes feature improves reticle technologies that make them more functional in shooting farther and more accurately. This makes them competent enough to meet your needs without leaving you in debt.

• Assuming that Price and Quality Match

It does seem like every problem people encounter when it comes to choosing long range scopes has to do with money. This is why we always stress in the need to budget. However, this notion is not completely delusional. There are some cases where price and quality match. Still, if you go out with this idea you would be at a disadvantage. There are other budget friendly options that give you just the, right if not perfect, function. Getting a very expensive scope doesn’t automatically make your aim better. There’s loads of practice involved in making you more skilled and with time, you’ll get to know that price doesn’t matter.

• Shooting in Poor Weather Conditions

For long range shooting, weather is a factor that affects accuracy. Whether it is too windy, sunny or too hot, it can adversely affect your readings. For example, shooting in very hot conditions can affect accuracy because of ‘mirage’. It also affects the velocity of the muzzle and the powder burn. For windy situations, you, there can be a shift in shot position. So, it is advisable to avoid long range shooting in extreme weather.

• Using the Wrong Ammunition

Asides the scope and rifle, the rifle ammo is very important in long range shooting. Some loads work better than others especially in long range shooting. Using a poor ammo can really affect the accuracy of your shots as well as contribute to shooting inconsistencies. A good advice would be to get quality ammunition for a better experience.

• Unstable or Mobile Rest

While making targets, the rest is very essential for making clear, consistent and accurate shots. If the rest is uncomfortable or shaky, you would get inconsistency which can be frustrating. Ensure that your rest is very stable and tightly held. This would help you save time also. 

• Inconsistent Shoulder Pressure

When it comes to shoulder pressure, experience helps this one. With constant practice, people develop better shoulder pressure skills. Nevertheless, inconsistencies in shoulder pressure can be a big and frustrating mistake in long range shooting. Different rifles come with differing calibers and recoils.

These require differing shoulder pressure to control the shot accuracy. If the rifle recoil is high, you would need to apply extra shoulder pressure to control your shot. There is no formula for it. All it needs is a mental estimation of how much more pressure you need to apply and keeping it consistent.

• Poor Control of the Trigger

Generally, long range shooting requires skills and in developing those skills, trigger control cannot be denied. You have to be consistent in your trigger press. The goal is for a clean and smooth release. To do this, pull your fingers to the end and follow through immediately after the shot is done. Avoid jerking the trigger and snatching it regardless of how the shot goes. Continue doing this until you’re good on your trigger technique. 

This also includes your follow through. It is advisable to keep your head on the stock for at least 2 seconds after you have made your shot. Most people would want to lift their head to see how far the shot went of if the target was accurate. Run the bolt for the next shot without changing the position of the rifle. This would help you prevent the rifle aim from upsetting during the shot.

• Overheating the Barrel

While shooting, there is heat build-up. This the amount of heat built up in rifles differ based on the calibers, weather and rifle position. Most people disregard the heat build-up in their rifles and fire on. This can be very problematic in the long run. While shooting, there is supposed to be a rest period between shots. It is very essential to know how many shots can be fired in your rifle before the rest period. This would prevent overheating.

Some Extra Advice to Avoid Mistakes in Long Range Shooting

• Check Parallax Making a Shot

Parallax error is a very significant problem in long range shooting. To avoid this, place your scope’s objective and reticle in the same focal plane despite there are differences between FFP and SFP according to Accurate ordnance.Most long range scope come with a parallax knob but there is a need to also run a manual check. This should be fine every time you’re about to make a shot or when you change the range or position of a shot.

• Check the Rifle Cant Before Pulling the Trigger

Rifle cant can push your shots very wide so there’s a need to check it before pulling your trigger. This is because little movements can cant the rifle. Through the bubble level on the scope, you run a level check before making a shot.

• Check Natural Point of Aim Before Making a Shot

You need to take extra care at setting your natural point of aim right before a shot. This involves your breathing also. If your shot stringing is vertical, it shows a very poor breath control and not checking the natural point of aim after you make a shit.

Conclusion

Mistakes in long range shooting are very common. This is because there are lots of technicalities required in long range shooting. As we have highlighted, practice makes perfect. To be the best long range shooter, we have provided you with a few mistakes to avoid and some tips to ensure accurate shots. Why not get on with them and develop your skills? Let us know about your experience.

Some of the best hunters have mastered their art by ‘seeing.’ They know when to use their eyes and when they need extra support to see beyond what the eyes cannot see. You need to identify the target animal, their size and sometimes even sex. However, this is not easy when they are far away. You need the right optics to get your vision correct. This is where hunting binoculars come in handy to help.

Choosing the best binoculars for hunting is not easy in a world filled with a wide array of products. You need a pair of binoculars that best suit your needs. Make sure your preferences and needs correlate well with your binocular. To have a clear understanding of hunting binoculars, check our buying guide below:

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hunting Binoculars

Magnification

Bigger does not always mean better as most people think. Binoculars with a magnification of 7X to 10X will work for most types of hunting. While an even bigger binocular will get you a better view, there are several disadvantages to using one. First, these binoculars are big and sometimes require a tripod stand.

For proper hunting, a magnification of 7X will work just fine. If you’re looking for more magnification, then consider getting a spotting scope.

The objective size also determines the details you see. Usually, the larger the objective, the more details one can see. Objective size usually ranges from 30mm to 50mm or more. They work together with magnification to get you clear images. For example, the magnifications of 7X and an objective lens of 40mm give you 7×40.

Objective Size

However, a larger objective means carrying a bulkier binocular and expensive. If you’re planning on hunting during the day, then an objective size of 40mm will work just fine. Portability is a crucial consideration for any hunting trip. You need to select a compact binocular but one that offers you the right amount of clarity. Objective sizes below 30mm will not serve you well, especially in low lighting conditions.

Exit Pupil

Exit pupil is a number that determines the beam of light leaving the eyepiece. The number is arrived at by dividing the objective size by the magnification. For example, a magnification of 7 and an objective lens of 42mm gives us an exit pupil of 6mm.

It is recommended that the exit pupil be at least the same size as that of the fully dilated pupil of the person looking through the binocular. A larger pupil exit offers better clarity and more detail. It also makes it easier to put the eye through the eyepiece and see pictures fast. It is worth noting that an average human pupil is around 2-3mm in the afternoon when there is enough lighting. However, the pupil dilates when it gets darker to around 4-5mm and even higher at night. This means getting a binocular of the higher exit pupil, especially when working in low light conditions.

Field of View

The field of view is basically the area the binoculars can visualize at 1000 yards. When considering the field of view, there is no universal rule. In most cases, the quality of the image is more important than the field of view. A higher field of view means a larger area visualized. However, unless focusing on moving animals, you don’t require a larger field of view when hunting.

Eye Relief

This is the optimal distance between the eyes and the eyepiece. Eye relief basically means the optimal distance your eyes can be away from the eyepiece and still get a full view. When choosing the best hunting binocular, you need to consider eye relief to make your viewing more comfortable. This is the case especially for persons that wear eyeglasses. Their eyes are usually further away from the eyepiece.

Consider binoculars with adjustable eyecups for comfortable use. Such eyepieces are easily rolled to achieve a suitable distance to the eyepiece.

Waterproof

Since you will be hunting in the wild or woods, you never know when the weather will change. Make sure you choose waterproof binoculars since they are better protected in case of bad weather. We even have models that are submersible in waters.

Prism Choice

There are usually two types of prism used in hunting binoculars. These are the roof prism and Porro prism. They both serve the same purpose of turning the image right up. Binoculars with roof prisms are usually small and streamlined and easy to carry. Let’s just say roof prisms are compact binoculars with more complex technology than Porro prism binoculars.

On the other hand, Porro prism binoculars are a bit bulkier but affordable. If you’re on a budget, they can serve you well but you have to handle the added bulkiness.

The Verdict

In conclusion, choosing the ideal hunting binocular should not be difficult with this knowledge. For those who are looking for specific models,

Are you somebody that prefers keeping their distance when it comes to hunting? Do you prefer hunting “riskier” prey, such as coyotes or wild boar? Sure, longer distances might not be AS essential when hunting mostly docile prey like ducks or deer. However, you’d have to be suicidal to get close to anything else!

But you might’ve not been able to properly keep your distance during hunts. You might’ve been lacking some equipment needed to make it work. Sure, you bought a scope for you rifle…but it hasn’t been helping you as much as you’d like. Do you wanna know the reason why?

Your scope isn’t made for long range shooting.

You oughta fix that and get a scope that is!

How To Use A Long Range Scope For Hunting

If you’ve come to this article because you’ve just purchased a new long range scope and can’t figure out how it works, then have no fear. You’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of four tips that are sure to prepare you nicely for hunting with your new scope. Scroll down to read more!

Step One: Check Your Equipment. While this may be common sense for the most part, it’s surprisingly overlooked more often than not. Before you go out and put your scope to use, you might want to test it out in the safety of your backyard. This is to ensure that your scopes isn’t a dud AND that it fully supports long ranges. If you’re satisfied, you can go out and put it to the test.

If not, don’t ask for your money back just yet.

First check and see if you can adjust its settings to fit your satisfaction.

Step Two: Reticle Alignment. Your scope’s reticle is the crosshair you see on the lens (sometimes in the form of a cross and other times in the form of circles and x’s). It’s used to pinpoint where you’re aiming and it helps predict how accurate your shot will be. Chances are high that the reticle might not be set the way you want it at first. Thankfully, there are nobs you can turn to adjust it.

Step Three: Take Care of Your Eyes. We’re all human, and that means we all have certain needs that have to be met. As such, it’s highly important that you try to avoid straining your eyes too much when using your new long range scope. You can do this by adjusting the lens distance of your scope. Once you’ve adjusted it to your liking, your aiming eye will have much more room to be able to blink and see in peace. After all, you don’t want to accidently blind yourself using brand new tech that REQUIRES you to see, right?

Step Four: Know Your Magnification Level. Did you purchase a scope with a variable magnification system, or is it fixed? If you aren’t sure, take a moment to tinker with the magnification settings. Fixed scopes typically can only be set to one setting, and variable scopes can be set to any level most needed. My recommendation for long range shooting? Try to get a scope with variable magnification, as it will give you more breathing room in how far/near you’re willing to distance yourself.

Concealed carry can be a serious matter. Your decision to keep a gun is not just to be built lightly, however that doesn’t mean learning how to do this should be challenging.

If you’re ready to take the responsibility, and desire to get more info, continue reading to find out 5 verified rules of the concealed carry. And, I bet you that getting the right concealed carry gun holster will be a piece of cake for you as well.

Best Methods To Carry Concealed Gun!

Now it is where we’ll start to discover the best methods. You will find many methods for carrying a gun concealed; however, there are just a few “tactically-sound” methods which have confirmed to be safe and effective for average person.

No matter which method you decide on, your weapon must be capable of being presented as well as fired with fair accuracy in normal timeframe. I’d define it as having the ability to strike a “man-size” target, in lethal place, from 3-yards in just 1.5-second, from the concealment.

It will indicate that you must carry your gun full of a round all set to fire, possibly in chamber, or even in cylinder when it comes to a revolver. The next is an index of the concealed carry ways that will I recommend.

Appendix Method

Although appendix carry method is an “inside-the-waistband” method, I have listed it separately because there are various pros and cons considerations. This particular method makes use of an “inside-the-belt” holster positioned in front side, around 1 or 2 o’clock position.

This is best suited for people with slender frames. When you have some unwanted weight around waistline, you may find sitting uneasy when utilizing the appendix holster as the grip of gun can easily jam into the gut. Gun security and concealment are superb, and draw is extremely fast.

In contrast, you will want superior training to discover the ways to draw as well as re-holster securely. In appendix position, muzzle is directed right at the femoral artery. While holstered, that is largely irrelevant; it is the procedure of pulling and holstering which you should do correctly.

Ankle Method

Ankle carry can be an incredible option if you are practical about the benefits and drawbacks. Concealment is excellent if you are carrying a compact gun. Who checks other peoples’ ankle out?

Access is uncomfortable and needs some mild gymnastics and two hands, so do not rely on this technique for speed. On the other hand, it is an excellent method to have a “second-backup” weapon – many police force officers do this.

It is additionally an excellent choice for people who invest most of the day driving. Not to mention, seatbelts may make the waistband holsters uncomfortable and problematic, but it is simple to reach the most comfortable ankle holster even from a sitting position in your car.

Belly Band Method

Belly band holster is a superb option where you’ll need complete concealment but need to keep your gun easily accessible near the midsection. Additionally, bellybands provide excellent flexibility for closet choices as there’s no requirement for a “gun-belt” to give support.

The big band wraps all over the midsection and includes integrated pockets for your gun. Not to mention, you can easily wear bellyband up higher or low to suit your outfits properly.

Bear in mind that in order to draw you will have to rip your blouse or shirt away to access the gun. Therefore, bellyband carry can offer slower gun accessibility than conventional belt methods.

Undershirt Method

If profound concealment is your key requirement, then check out the undershirt holsters. Designed for women and men, these “compression-shirts” feature the holster pockets underneath the arm on the torso side.

The pocket, without or with a Velcro “retention-strap”, provides excellent gun security as your arm will cover all or even most of your gun to assist keep this protected and constantly in place.

However, the downside is it requires some time and work to reach the gun. Additionally, you must train to stay away from muzzling yourself as well as whoever may be standing beside you during the draw.

Lifting the shirt to reach the gun can be more difficult than you believe and in case your plan simply is to rip the buttons away, then you may get an irritating surprise.

IWB Concealed Carry Method

IWB holsters are standard for “concealed-carry” with valid reason. They can conceal properly and with an excellent array of pistols.

However, if you choose the appropriate holster, they can carry comfortably too. Many individuals find little additional layering is required, though some individuals might.

Whenever trying to find a good IWB kydex holster, it is vital that you get a comfortable, durable IWB “concealed-carry” holster which adjusts with person’s specs. No matter if it is the conventional 15°, can’t used by FBI or even a customized configuration suited better for ergonomics, it is the easiest way to keep your pistol easily accessible.

Conclusion

You will find other options out there; however, these are undoubtedly the most frequent methods for concealed carry. I don’t prefer to think about various carry methods as wrong or right. The genuine answer is which technique is good for you is dependent on your daily routine and lifestyle.

For instance, if you usually spend the days on feet, various methods may be more effective than if you’re a vehicle driver or full time desk. The vital thing is actually to consider your carry methods and possible threat scenarios, therefore you have an extremely practical image of which sort of protective actions your “concealed-carry” method can support.

Getting a gun implies nothing and will not necessarily assist you by simply its presence. Having the ability to retrieve as well as use this in a “split-second” is what will make the key difference.

Go ahead and work with an experienced defensive instructor to assist make the carry decision, understand how to get it done right, then always practice relentlessly.

When it comes to Nikon rifle scopes there are a lot of different characteristics that should be taken into account. It is very important to spend time researching what is available so that you can make an informed decision regarding the Nikon rifle scopes for your rifles.

When it comes to purchasing a Nikon rifle scopes it is very important to purchase a product that is able to offer quality in terms of its usage and make. With this in mind it is very important that you do not ignore the Nikon name, as this company is one that is certainly well known in terms of quality. Nowadays, it is very true that technology is changing the direction of life. These Nikon rifle scopes come complete with a warranty that lasts for a lifetime. Therefore, you are able to purchase a scope without any problems or worries. When you purchase Nikon rifle scopes you can be sure that you are getting the very best in terms of quality.

The Nikon Company has a vast array of different scopes that it sells, and there are really five main categories. These are the SlugHunter, ProStaff and Buckmaster to name a few. All of the Nikon rifle scopes are covered with an ultra coat, which means that it does not give off a reflection. These antireflection qualities mean that there is really no need for other tools to do this job.

The Nikon rifle scopes that feature a Titanium lineup are able to provide a very clear image and they have the power to endure some very rough conditions, therefore it is great for hunting big game species. This scope features a forty-four millimeter lens that can be adjusted, and this is very important for days that are a bit foggy and with low light conditions. This type of scope also has a feature that prevents any degree of glare, and it has a matte finish. There is one thing for certain, and that is with this Nikon rifle scopes you will be sure to go far.

The Buckmaster style of scopes also has a lot of features that are able to deal with fog and they are also waterproof. The Monarch style of scope is able to offer an African style of scope and these are equipped with single tube and German reticule, which makes them perfect for a hunting expedition.

The Omega scope is the latest edition to the collection of Nikon rifle scopes that are available. These scopes are a tamer version of the original and are actually very impressive and offer spotless vision. These scopes also feature all the characteristics and features that its predecessor had. This style of scope features two hundred and fifty reticule, and this means that the muzzleloader of the shot can be changed.

Due to the vast array of different Nikon rifle scopes that are available it is true to say that it is possible to get a Nikon rifle scope that fits every size of budget and taste. Nikon aim to provide the scopes that people require therefore they are always looking to increase the range.