"What scope is right for me?" The answer is, it depends.

It depends upon the game you will be hunting, for one thing. If it is dangerous game at close ranges that could make you the hunted instead of the hunter, a short focal length scope like our 1.25–4 x 20 is ideal. Its wide field of view allows you to pick up your target quickly. You don't want to have a scope set on 12 power when an angry buffalo is approaching at full speed ten yards away.

For all-around shooting, consider our 1.5–6 x 42. At 1.5x, it is perfect for close shots in thick forest and bush, while at 6x it gives you plenty of magnification for shots to 250 yards or longer.

If you tend to hunt open country, such as the American West, or game typically requiring longer shots such as sheep, pronghorn, ibex or plains antelope in Africa, you'll need higher magnification levels, such as our 2.5–10 x 56, 3–12 x 42, 3–12 x 50 or even 4–16 x 50 scopes. If you hunt varmints, our 4–16 x 50 is available with special fine reticles that won't cover your target.

If maximum light transmission is critical, when hunting lion or leopard from a blind, for example, or if you can legally hunt after dark, choose a large objective lens such as our 2.5–10 x 56 or 3–12 x 50.

It depends on your budget. If most of your shooting is done at consistent distances, consider one of our fixed power scopes. Simple and rugged, they allow you to experience Schmidt & Bender's acclaimed quality and brilliance at less cost than a variable scope.

It depends on your rifle, too. The largest objective lenses or a very short scope may not mount properly on an unusual rifle. Flat-shooting high-velocity calibers will generally benefit from higher-magnification scopes. Conversely, large-caliber double rifles and bolt actions designed for close shots require short focal length scopes.

Keep in mind that all scopes look relatively bright in the middle of the day. The true quality of a riflescope becomes apparent at last light or, in the case of Schmidt & Bender, even after dark. Make arrangements with your dealer to allow you to compare different scopes in late evening or at night. It is the only way you can approximate actual hunting conditions. Ask us about our "Seeing is Believing" program that lets you sample Schmidt & Bender's remarkable optics at no obligation.

We would be happy to make recommendations based upon your hunting habits and your rifle. Whatever you like to hunt, there is a Schmidt & Bender scope that has proven itself in every corner of the globe. See also choosing a reticle.