What the Numbers on a Scope Actually Mean?

Every scope has a model designation that tells you two things immediately. Take **3-9x40**: the first part (3-9x) is the magnification range -- this scope zooms from 3 power to 9 power. The second number (40) is the diameter of the **objective lens** in millimeters -- that's the big glass on the front of the scope.

How Much Magnification Do You Actually Need?

This is where most first-time buyers go wrong -- they buy too much. More magnification sounds better on paper, but it narrows your field of view, amplifies every wobble in your hold, and makes fast target acquisition harder. A 25x scope on a deer stand at 150 yards is miserable to use.