Selecting the right varmint hunting scope is important. Here are 3 things you need to consider before buying any varmint hunting scope.
Varmint Scope Magnification
Varmint scopes that offer higher magnification are certainly an advantage when precise aim is needed on small targets out to 300 yards.
You cannot hit what you cannot see! A 4-12x is plenty of scope magnification for popular varminting cartridges such as the 223, 204 Ruger, 22-250, 220 Swift, etc.
Beyond 300 yards you need to consider using higher powered variable scopes like a 6-20x, especially if your targets are the size of prairie dogs.
Varmint Scope Reticle
Choosing the right scope reticle comes down to personal preference.
Some prefer a fine target crosshair for precision shooting while others like a plain Duplex reticle.
Others like a ballistic drop compensating reticle (like the Nikon BDC, Burris Plex, etc) to assist in long range shooting.
What we suggest you do is actually look through a variety of varmint scopes with different reticles. Only then can you tell which one is right for your shooting needs.
The Nikon Coyote uses a reticle with a relatively big circle as the aiming point and two smaller circles below it to account for bullet drop (ballistic drop compensating).
This type of scope is well suited to Coyote hunting because it allows faster target acquisition – especially when the coyotes are moving.
Which Scope Brand/Make?
Varmint hunting scopes manufactured today and hunting scopes in general are superior to most scopes developed 10 years ago.
There is a variety of quality made varmint scopes to choose from.
Scopes with high quality optics (and thereby excellent light transmission during dawn and dusk shooting hours) command a higher price tag.
You cannot go wrong with a specific varmint scope from Nikon, Leupold, Burris, Zeiss, Swavrovski, etc.
What you buy depends on your budget – but always buy the best varmint hunting scope you can afford. Precision made varmint scopes are worth the extra price.
