Scopes Objective Sizes

[pinetree64]

I'm getting a scope for Christmas, I'm thinking a Zeiss Conquest, 3.5x10. They are available with 40, 44 and 50 mm objectives. This scope will go on my 30-06AI. It is currently topped with a compact Zeiss 3x9 with a 36mm objective that will go back to my Ruger #1 in 45/70 - currently topped with a Leupold VarX II 3x9. I big scope for its power.

I'm not as interested in big jump in magnification as I am in light gathering. Does the objective effect the light gathering? And would I be better off with a 50 vs a 44. Will the 50 require higher rings?

Thanks,
tjg

 

[dakotasin]

1- yes, objective has everything to do w/ light gathering.
2- 44. in the u.s. during legal hunting hours, there is no reason in the world why a 44 isn't more than enough, w/o the extra weight, expense, ring hassles, and cheek weld problems of the 50+.
3- yes, 50 needs higher rings than 40/44.

 

[USSR]

What dakotasin said.

Don

 

[Dave R]

3rd.

I bought a 50mm scope earlier when I thought bigger was better. Stuck with a "jaw weld" now. If I had it to do over, I'd stick with 40mm.

 

[pinetree64]

Thanks for the help! I save the aggrevation and money and get the 44.

 

[Art Eatman]

Leaving out target competition and hunting itty-bitty varmints, I'd spend more money on game-finding binoculars than on the scope. Most any well-made 4X is gonna let you shoot the trophy buck or elk that you identified "in the dark" with the binocs. Daytime? There's enough lens in a K2.5 to do ya.

, Art

 

[45crittergitter]

Scopes do not gather light. They transmit (some of) it. As far as exit pupil, you can only use about 5-6 mm. (Exit pupil = obj. dia./magnification) However, more diameter will usually result in better resolution.

I don't use any larger than ~44mm on non-varmint/target rifles. 50mm is just too big, HIGH, and heavy. I generally use a 38-40mm and just turn the power back to 8 or so if the light is bad.

 

[mmike87]

I just snagged me a Zeiss 4.5-14x44 NIB off ebay. It's sweet. Have not had a chance to shoot yet, but it seems very well built and it's got a bright and clear image.

eBay actually has a decent selection of Zeiss scopes ... I got mine which normally goes for about $680 online and retail for $532 shipped. Brand new in box.

I too almost got the 50 and "settled" for the 44 and am glad I did. Awesome scope.

 

[DorGunR]

3rd.

I bought a 50mm scope earlier when I thought bigger was better. Stuck with a "jaw weld" now. If I had it to do over, I'd stick with 40mm.

I just took a 50mm off a 30-06 Remington BDL and replaced it with a 40mm for the reasons Dave R mentioned.

 

[50 Freak]

I've got a new Burris Fulfield 3x9x40 I'd like to trade for something comperable with a 50 objective.

e-mail me guys.