Caveat Emptor or "Let the buyer beware" is the first rule of economics. It simply means that the buyer has a responsibility to watch how they spend their cash. This means researching, reading and making sure you get value for your dollar. The same rules apply to hunting optics, red dot scopes and rifle scopes. Let's look at some tips for buying a scope for your rifle.
Read the label and know what you are getting
If you are shopping for hunting optics, you probably know exactly what you want to research. Your first step should include reading the labels and manufacturer recommendations. This is the only way you can reliably compare one product to another. It is pointless to compare apples to oranges.
Check out the warranty on the package. If you have questions, ask a store clerk what the warranty is for that Leupold scope or Burris scope. Be sure the warranty is full and complete and is acceptable. Some of the better optics makers offer a lifetime warranty against defects of workmanship. This can be extremely important for obvious reasons. If the store offers an extended warranty, take it. It usually covers what the manufacturer does not.
Check Reviews from Current Owners
The internet is a fabulous place to find out what experiences others have had with a particular product. Many of these will touch on areas you may not have considered. Rifle scope owners are usually very willing to tell you everything about their hunting optics. This is why you find many manufactures offering testimonials on their websites. Read through several of these to discover what others have thought about mounting, performance, quality and durability.
Consider the Use for the Scope
When you are shopping for hunting scopes, it is vital to get the right one for your needs. For instance, if you are hunting, you will be outdoors a lot in different types of weather. Some features you may want to be sure of are anti-fog lenses, waterproof adjustments and construction.
Power is another consideration, if you are routinely shooting short distances such as 75 yards or less. These hunting situations will not require a powerful scope; a regular 3x9 scope will be more than sufficient. Of course, if you are commonly in long distance situations such as 300-400 yards you will need some power. The bottom line is not to purchase too much or too little when it comes to hunting optics power.
Money
Scopes and hunting optics are never cheap; however, you can find a great scope for the right price with a little forethought. Decide up front how much money you are willing to spend and then go browse the stores for potential optics. Lesser-known brands will of course be cheaper, however you may sacrifice some quality, you may not but you should know it is likely. Red dot rifle scopes and hunting optics are defined by their cost; it is generally a reflection of value. For a really fine scope, you can expect to pay several hundred to over a grand for quality.
So set your price range, do the research and read all you can about that scope. Be informed and you will find a scope to last a lifetime and perform well for you. Remember the slogan "Caveat Emptor" and be aware of your purchase.
Author Resource:
Visit www.RifleScopesWorld.com to browse our wide selection of rifle scopes including Burris, Aimpoint and Leupold scopes .