New to optics, what is good for what

[LeeEnfieldNo.4_mk1]

Now I know this is going to sound like a stupid thread, but can someone tell me what magnifications are good for what distances. The reason I ask is because After i get a few more Enfields (like two), I was gonna invest in a good rifle and scope it. The rifle I was thinking of getting was the Springfield M1A, but thats not the point. So if anyone could tell, or direct me to a good source of info, much appreciated. Thanks

 

[icedog]

There are a bunch more variables... for instance, it depends whether you're shooting mostly at a, moose, a gopher, or a paper target and whether you'll be shooting from a bench, some other sort of rest, or free hand. Many big game rifles are topped with something like a 3-9x or 2-7x, giving hunters options depending on ranges, terrain and potential targets. Target and varmint rifles are often topped with scopes offering greater magnification. The preference for fixed or variable scopes is really a personal one. I guess a very general rule of thumb would be, the more distant and the smaller target, the more likely you will want a larger magnification. Most of my hunting rifles carry 3-9 and 2-7's, but in actual hunting situations they are usually set in the 4-6x range.

 

[Griffoneur]

Not a simple question to answer.
Do a"Google" on Rifle Scope recommendation. You will get several interesting and informative links.

 

[a j cave]

Icedog is on the money.
A Bushnell 3200 2x7 or 3x9 is more than enough for a hunting rifle. Your ranges will mostly be under 200yd & these will be ideal. Carry the scope on a low power when walking so it's easer to pick up a moving target. Ie; 9 power is too much to pick up a running deer at 30 yds, but if it is standing at 200 you can turn up the power. Use some of your friends guns at the range & try different powers. good luck AJ

 

[LeeEnfieldNo.4_mk1]

Thanks. I was looking at shooting around 400-500 yards, but i have a long way to go before I can buy the rifle let alone the scope so I should have plenty of time to figure something out.