Nowadays, optical scopes have become an indispensable companion for hunters and shooters, ensuring numerous advantages over open sights of any type. For instance, the optical system provides just one image. There, the target and the laying mark are optically aligned in the same plane. That means you do not need to strain your eyes excessively, focusing three objects in the same plane, which is true for open scopes.
But let us start with some simple statements. To choose or not to choose — you do not have to answer the question like that. It is obvious any respectful hunter or a shooter, no matter how professional and experienced he or she is, will perform better with the scope rather than without it. At the first glance, the choice of a suitable scope is not as easy as ABC. Would like to know how to select this type of optics fast and without sick headaches? Just continue reading this article.
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Our journey in the marvelous world of equipment for shooters and hunters starts with the list of the best fixed 10x scopes. With its help, you will find out which solutions are considered universal and why.
So let us be more specific. In the table below, we would like to present you some basic characteristics of the chosen scopes. This knowledge can contribute to understanding which device will become a lifesaver in your particular case.
Cannot wait to see what secrets are hidden in these magic glass boxes? Ready, steady, go!
Why Do You Need a Riflescope?
A scope allows hunters to clearly distinguish the target, determine the distance to it (if this device has a rangefinder scale), and point their weapon at the desired target. Any optical scope is a complex tool. Note you need to be careful using such device. If necessary, only professional masters can repair this product.
Why to Choose 10x Rifle Scopes
The 10x scopes are universal since they are suitable for shooting at paper targets, as well as at small targets. To make the image light, the diameter of the objective lens must be at least 40 mm. Usually, hunters use these devices for long-range shooting. In this case, scopes with bigger magnification will not be suitable since they often do not have enough vertical and horizontal grid divisions. However, 10x models also have a limitation. Using them, you will not be able to shoot without adjusting the focus. Besides, they also may lack accuracy for measuring the distance.
Scopes with 24x magnification are suitable for sports shooting at paper targets with pre-adjustment. To obtain a good image quality, an objective lens diameter should be at least 50 mm. In this case, the bigger the diameter is, the better it is. It also makes sense to equip this device with a more advanced zoom and focus mechanism. With its help, you will be able to measure distances with an accuracy up to several meters.
Finally, scopes with maximum magnification like 32x, 40x, etc. are suitable for athletes only. Why? First of all, they have a small exit pupil. So it is necessary to develop a special skill of using the weapon with such scope. In this case, most inexperienced shooters can’t find an image for a long time. Besides, images are quite often dark and blurred. Secondly, these devices are usually very large and rather heavy. And last but not the least important drawback for beginners and even hunters of pro-level, even fire from the shoulder with scopes of maximum magnification can be less effective than with alternatives with lower magnification. Due to the exaggerated rifle’s oscillations, a shooter needs to spend more time on focusing and sighting.
Considering the above-mentioned findings, if you are a newcomer in the field or just want not to limit yourselves with only one kind of shooting, then 10x scopes will be the best option for you. Indeed, these devices are considered versatile and flexible for a reason.
SWFA SS 10×42 Tactical Riflescope 1/10 Mil Adjustments Rear Focus
The scopes of this series were originally Navy contract military products. So, these devices are truly built to Mil-spec. As a matter of fact, over the years the tube has become actually thicker than the original version. In turn, the product became even more durable when the manufacturer won the military contract. As a little summing up, the fact this product is built to NATO and military specifications makes this best 10x scope incredibly multitasking.
Being built of aluminum, this scope is not less qualitative than its steel competitors. The situation is even vice versa. Aluminum is resistant to humidity, dryness, and temperature extremes. For instance, it will stay in the original state of quality either when it is 50 degrees of frost or 50 degrees of heat. With this device, you are well-prepared for hunting wherever and whenever you want. In addition, the use of aluminum contributes a lot to the product’s service life. The guaranteed durability is 80 years at least. Of course, this term depends on the intensity of use and the quality of the fittings. In this case, all you need to do to keep the scope healthy is just to take care of it.
In layman’s terms, this is a fixed 10 power scope. So there is no zoom and no way you can adjust the magnification. That means you do not have a set of lenses that are moving around with a zoom mechanism. But do not think it is a drawback. It turns out the light travels through a scope through a lot fewer things to distort it much less. As a result, you have a cleaner image in a more durable optic.
The product’s controls are also second to none. Elevation and windage turrets please a customer with nice solid positive clicks. It is a very simple scope to operate since this best 10x rifle scope does not have a lot of details. Moreover, all the present mechanisms function like a charm. They are tough enough, so you will not turn them accidentally. With them, you can concentrate on observing the target through your scope and make successful shots.
Another great thing about this gear is its rear focus system. It allows you to focus from ten meters right out to infinity. So you have got a lot of versatility in this optic piece.
All in all, we highly recommend you to go for this best fixed 10x scope. The last but not less important thing to say about this device is summing up the most of customers’ feedbacks. SFWA equipment fails far less than Vortex, Leopold, Burris, etc.
- Easy installation
- Compact design
- Solid mechanisms
- Shockproof
- None detected
Bushnell Tactical 10×40 Rifle Scope
One more bulletproof in the scope industry is the Bushnell scope. Developed with the help of experts in the military, law enforcement and competitive shooting companies, this equipment is made with top of the line performance and durability in mind.
This fixed best 10x scope features target turrets for precise adjustments, a blacked-out finish for optimum concealment, and a sophisticated reticle for close quarter combat and long range shooting. Besides, the Bushnell device possesses a mil-dot reticle and RainGuard HD coating. A mil-dot reticle has solid balls and posts. It functions greatly, especially when you perform a lot of precision shots on small targets. With the help of the special coating technique, you are able to keep the product’s lens cleaner and clearer. Briefly speaking, it allows breaking up moisture.
To make this solution even more reliable, the manufacturer applies a special method of purging with the help of argon. Thus, the coating will save its qualities for a longer time.
An outstanding bonus to know is that the manufacturer backs their products with their 100% unconditional forever satisfaction guarantee.
All in all, if you adore target shooting, this model is exactly what you need. It is an excellent product at an affordable price.
- A mil-dot reticle
- RainGuard HD coating
- A compact design
- A complex zeroing which requires additional hardware
SWFA SS 10×42 Riflescope ¼ MOA Adjustments Rear Focus
This product from SFWA is another model of the Super Sniper series. In general, it is pretty similar to the alternatives from the brand line. Therefore, it is as qualitative as they are. It differentiates with a compact design and a lightweight body. Thanks to this feature, you will not overload your gun and produce some extra unnecessary oscillations. Besides, the size allows you to match it to several weapons and set it up smoothly.
Let us say a few words about the product’s construction. This matte black gear has MOA turrets as well as an MOA reticle (you can find out the difference between MOA and mil in the Buyer’s Guide section). In turn, per revolution, they provide 15 MOA. On the scope’s back, there is a focus for the reticle focus. Besides, it also has a nice parallax knob on the item. Big turrets are easy to read and operate. The details are tight to turn and precise. Each printing is really clear and durable. All the product’s details operate nice. There is no grid, for instance. In general, a lot of customers find this classical design super convenient and get used to it easily.
This product is made of lightweight aluminum. Due to the material used, this scope literally gets a kind of natural protection from any impacts. Therefore, it can boast of its being fog- and water-proof. This feature is especially important, when we are talking about hunting. Due to it, there will be no bad weather for such time-spending.
All in all, to go for this one of the best 10x fixed power rifle scopes is a great and well-thought-out decision.
- A great tactical design
- Waterproof
- Fogproof
- It is relatively heavier than the first runners
SWFA SS 10x42MMQ 1/10 Mil Adjustments Side Focus
Similar to the already presented product, this scope also has a 10 power fixed magnification. Apart from the convenience in use, this feature makes SFWA SS 10×42 the best option for rimfire air riffles. The beauty of this equipment is a side focus system. It is literally as productive and comfortable as a rear focus. With a side focus, you can adjust parallax on the flight. The main difference between them is not even the location on the scope: it is a price. Models with side focus are a little bit more expensive than models with a rare focus. That is why if you do not want to invest too much in the hunting and shooting optics, consider the previously highlighted scopes.
Let us actually get into the product itself. The main tube measures 30 mm. It has a nice lightweight body paired with 42 mm front objective. Even though it is a compact scope, it still has a huge amount of internal adjustment. This model has more than 140 MOA of internal adjustment.
Besides, this device features large external tactical turrets. In turn, they are paired with a Mil base reticule. Here, the mil-dot laying mark has a vertical and horizontal makeup in one Mil steps.
As far as the turrets are concerned, there is a difference in their set-up method. Details with the set-screws lock on to a solid shaft. The possible issue with it is loosening these elements up.
All in all, if you want to have a reliable product from a respectful manufacturer, this one will complement your gear equipment collection decently.
- A compact design
- A great internal adjustment
- A high price tag
Buyer’s Guide: What to Pay Attention to When Purchasing the Best Fixed 10x Scope
Without a doubt, a scope can be surely considered pretty complex and somewhat sophisticated optical equipment. Therefore, it is not only a challenge to choose one suitable product. Also, it is a responsible task for everyone who appreciates his or her efforts and resources. In this voluminous section, we have highlighted some essential moments to pay attention to when selecting a scope for your weapon.
The Choice of Mounting
You can mount a scope both on separate rings and on a monoblock bracket. The advantage of the rings is that a shooter selects the attachment points of his or her scope to the mounting base. The monoblock will perfectly serve where you need increased endurance and strength. For example, you should prefer this attachment tool for spring-powered guns.
The Scope’s Mechanics
By that, we mean all the provided adjustment mechanisms, namely, a focus, a zoom tool, as well as elevation and windage adjustment dials. So, what is worth calling attention to in this case?
First of all, it is the mechanism of the focusing system. It can be placed on the lens or on the eyepiece. Besides, there are models without this tool. The side mechanism is considered more convenient and accurate. With its help, you are able to make adjustments without taking your eyes off the scope. If your device is also equipped with an extra big wheel, you can perform this action with high precision.
Secondly, look at the back-sight drums of the device. The simplest scope models allow infrequent entry of adjustments (while “zeroing”, i.e. while sighting your rifle), using a screwdriver or a coin. Note you need to unscrew the safety caps first. At the same time, scopes of the more advanced series possess large elevation and windage drums. Therefore, such devices are more convenient in use and allow adjusting even if you wear gloves.
And thirdly, do not forget about the diopter adjustment tool. It allows you to customize the optical system of your scope to your vision peculiarities. In simpler words, adjusting a diopter is actually adjusting your eye focus to the reticle. Many people grab this and start moving around thinking they are focusing the image, but that is not the case at all. If you move it all the way into an extreme, you will notice that the reticle starts to get pretty blurry. However, the correct setting will reduce eye fatigue and improve the visibility of the reticle. Usually, this mechanism is located on the eyepiece of the scope. Once you have adjusted the laying mark to the optimum sharpness, you should not change the position of this adjustment in the future.
Focal Planes
Overall, there are two focal planes: first and second. Pretty simple, isn’t it? Both focal planes have to do with where the reticle is located in correspondence to the target image. A huge number of traditional hunting scopes belong to the second focal plane devices. For them, when you crank the magnification ring on the scope, the target image will get bigger. But simultaneously, the reticle will stay unchangeable. This is suitable for a standard reticle kind where there are no measurements in the reticle itself. However, if you are going to be using a reticle for measurement, ranging, or wind and elevation holds, it gets a little bit tricky. As you decrease your magnification, you are increasing the value of the marks represented in the reticle itself. So generally, long-range shooters or followers of adaptive tactical or law-enforcement application will give their preference to first focal plane scopes. These devices are more accurate. For instance, if such a device mils out at 1 MOA at 6 power, it will be 1 MOA at 12 or 24 power as well.
PS. Choosing a scope, you can certainly find signs like Mil and MOA in descriptions. Overall, Mil and MOA are just different units of angular measurements like inches and centimeters. They all represent a given space. So with MOA, roughly speaking, you are looking at about one inch of 100 yards. In turn, Mil is one centimeter at 100 meters.
Tube Diameter
A lot of people seem to think that with a larger tube they let more light through their scope. However, it is not absolutely true. With tube diameter one of the big things is the amount of travel you have in the turrets. The larger the tube is, the more internal adjustment inside of the scope there is as that elevator runs up and down. So you will be able to dial farther for shooting longer ranges. For instance, 30 mm are pretty enough to start with. This size has become standard. A great thing about it is that it is suitable for a lot of mounting solutions (unlike 1-inch tubes). On the contrary, with something smaller like a 1-inch tube, it is going to limit how much that reticle is to move. However, these devices are more designed for zeroing at once. So it will be a better choice for shooting in the woods.
Conclusion
All in all, it is hard to underestimate the necessity of a rifle scope when you are a hunter or a shooter. With this device, any session will bring you not just more joy. It will also provide you with bigger power and preciseness. Say “yes” to hitting the center of the target!
In this overview, we have presented you 4 best 10x fixed power rifle scopes, suitable for a myriad of hunting situations and environments. These devices are a perfect option to start with. On the one hand, they are pretty advanced, on the other — their multitasking makes you more flexible.
Just choose the most “delicious” model as you imagine it — and you will experience qualitative hunting or shooting all the way up. To select a scope of your dream? Done! Have a nice one!
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