What's the minimum power for comfort to 500-600 yrds for varmint

Inukshuk · #1 04-20-2007, 06:35 PM

I'd like to know from you all what would be the minimum powered scope needed for hunting small game in the 8"-10" sizes up to 600 yrds and be comfortable.

jwp475 · #2 04-20-2007, 06:56 PM

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I'd like to know from you all what would be the minimum powered scope needed for hunting small game in the 8"-10" sizes up to 600 yrds and be comfortable.

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I use a 4X16 or 3.5X15 and find it perfectly adaquate........... 10 power I think would be adequate for some.....

Buffalobob · #3 04-20-2007, 07:03 PM

A 10X with fine crosshair and clear glass. I have a couple of Burris Fullfields 3-9X and the crosshairs are too thick for small game at those distances and the glass is not clear enough. I have an old Lyman All American 10X and it will do a good job but is hard to deal with under 50 yards. I do manage to kill squirrels with it (20-30 yards) but more than a few get away because the field of view is limited.

jwp475 · #4 04-20-2007, 07:21 PM

Buffalobob, makes an excelent point resolution is the KING in optics........ [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Inukshuk · #5 04-20-2007, 08:20 PM

I've seen some say 16,20,24,power so you can see their little eyes, but as just mentioned would a 10 power be enough if it was a very high end glass?
IOR
S&B
Night Force
etc.

Buffalobob · #6 04-21-2007, 06:06 AM

If it was me and I was trying to kill rabbits to eat at 600 yards, which means trying to hit them in the head or front quarters at least, and if I wanted to shoot the head off a grouse at 10 yards, all with the same scope and gun; I would go with something on the order of 4-16 variable with a good focus system and a fine crosshair.

The scope and gun I am referencing are old and single power glass is just the way it was done 30 years ago. I can get by with it and am used to it but another person would probably find it hard to use. Admittedly that gun hasn't killed any rabbits at 600 yards (about 400 yards is its best) but the optically power and quality of the scope is good enough.

I don't think you have to see their eyes, but you do have to resolve their head. I was watching Mama Groundhog yesterday at 700 yards and it is really more about clarity than power.

Hired Gun · #7 04-21-2007, 11:23 PM

Sure a 4.5x14 would do, but a 6.5x20 sure makes it easier to place your shot.