20 mm scope

Types of 20 mm scopes

A 20 mm scope is a rifle scope that uses a 20 mm tube diameter. Hunters and marksmen use this scope to improve their shooting accuracy. The 20 mm rifle scope creates a bright and clear image of the target. This is because the objective lens measures 20 mm, which is smaller than a 24 mm scope. The smaller size allows more light to enter the scope. A 20 mm scope is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. It is also used in situations where quick target acquisition is required, such as close to medium-range shooting. A 20 mm scope is ideal for hunters and shooters who prefer a lightweight and compact optic for their rifles.

There are different types of 20 mm scopes. They include:

• Variable power scopes: These scopes have adjustable magnification levels. The user can set the magnification level to anywhere between 3x and 9x based on their shooting needs. It has a ring located on the eyepiece that can be rotated to change the magnification level.
• Fixed power scopes: These scopes have a fixed magnification level. The magnification level can be 3x, 4x, or 9x. It cannot be adjusted or changed. However, it provides a specific range of magnification that is suitable for different shooting situations.
• Second focal plane scopes: These scopes have reticles located at the second focal plane. The size of the reticle does not change when the magnification level changes. Therefore, the user has to use holdover techniques to estimate the range and make windage corrections.
• First focal plane scopes: These scopes have reticles at the first focal plane. The size of the reticle changes when the magnification level is changed. Therefore, the reticle remains accurate and retains subtensions for estimating distance and measuring windage at any magnification level.
• Dot scopes: These scopes have a red dot reticle. The reticle is illuminated with red or green light. It is easy to use in bright and low-light conditions. The dot scopes provide quick target acquisition and are suitable for close to medium-range shooting.

Scenarios of 20 mm scopes

The 20 mm rifle scope is widely used among gun enthusiasts and hunters. The following are some common application areas of the 20 mm scope.

• Hunting: A 20 mm scope is most widely used for hunting. It provides a clear view of the target, making it easy for the hunter to take the shot. The small magnification power offers a wide field of view, which is important when looking for moving animals. Animals such as deer and birds move around, and having a wide field of view makes it easier to spot them. A 20 mm scope is perfect for small and medium-sized animals.
• Shooting sports: The 20 mm scope is also used in shooting sports, especially in competitive shooting. The small size and magnification make it ideal for short to medium distances. This gives the shooter an advantage over others, especially in precision shooting, where even the smallest details matter. The scope makes it easy to see the target clearly, making it easier to shoot accurately.
• Firearms with recoils: A 20 mm scope is used on firearms with recoils because it can withstand the impact and not lose zero. The scope is built with high-quality materials that can withstand strong force. This makes it a popular choice among gun enthusiasts who use firearms with strong recoils.
• Ratchet adjustment: The 20 mm scope is preferred because of the ratchet adjustment. This makes it easy for the hunter to make adjustments when looking at the target without taking their eyes off the target. The smooth adjustment also helps in making fast corrections, especially when the target is moving.

How to Choose a 20 mm scope

Choosing the right 20 mm scope is crucial for optimizing shooting accuracy and satisfaction. Below are some key factors to consider when selecting a scope.

• Purpose and Usage

  Determining the primary purpose of the scope is the first step in selecting one. Is it for hunting, tactical shooting, or long-range target shooting? The intended use will significantly influence the type of scope required. For instance, a hunting scope may only need a magnification range of up to 9x, but a long-range shooting scope will require more considerable magnification. Additionally, factors like reticle type and scope durability play a role in the scope's suitability for its intended purpose.

• Reticle Type

  Reticles are also referred to as crosshairs, which are the lines that help a shooter in aiming. There are several reticle types, including duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation). Each has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, a BDC reticle is beneficial for long-range shooting as it allows for elevation adjustments without using a turret. On the other hand, a simple duplex reticle is lighter and easier to see in various lighting conditions.

• Durability and Build Quality

  A scope must be durable enough to survive harsh handling and weather conditions. Look for scopes constructed with high-quality materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum or magnesium. These materials are light yet robust, ensuring the scope can withstand recoil and rough handling. In addition, the scope's outer layer should have a hard coating that can resist scratches and abrasions.

• Waterproof, Fog Proof, and Shockproof

  Besides durability, a scope must be able to withstand various environmental conditions. High-quality O-rings seal the scope, preventing water from entering. This keeps the interior components dry and free from corrosion or mold damage. In addition, scopes are filled with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent fogging. This ensures a clear view inside the scope at any temperature or humidity level. Finally, a shockproof scope can withstand the strong recoil of high-caliber rifles without losing zero or sustaining internal damage.

Functions, Features and Design of 20 mm scopes(Combined)

Functions

• Accuracy enhancement

  This tool is intended to improve precision when firing weapons. This is accomplished by the reticle, which enables the user to make precise aim adjustments. The crosshairs are superimposed on the target, making it possible to shoot with great accuracy.

• Targeting at long ranges

  Hunting and shooting sports involve the use of 20 mm scopes. This is because, in these activities, one often has to shoot from a long distance. The tool magnifies the object that is being shot at, making it possible for one to see finer details and features of the object. This will make shooting at long distances possible.

• Improved shooting experience

  The experience of shooting is improved by this tool. This is because it has features such as the illuminated reticle that enables one to see when shooting in low-light areas. Therefore, one can take precise shots even when the environment is dark.

Features

• Durable construction

  A scope is constructed to withstand adverse conditions. This includes things like rain, fog, and dust. The nitrogen purging feature prevents internal fogging by moisture. This ensures a clear view at all times.

• Adjustable windage and elevation

  The windage and elevation can be adjusted in 20 mm scopes. This allows the shooter to make corrections. The shooter can adjust the scope according to the required parameters using knobs and turrets. This results in fine-tuning and ensures that the crosshairs are aligned with the target.

• Reticle design

  The scopes have different reticle designs. This includes mil-dot, duplex, and illuminated reticles. The different designs offer various advantages. For instance, an illuminated reticle gives one the opportunity to shoot in low-light areas.

Designs

• Objective lens diameter

  The amount of light that enters the scope is influenced by the size of the objective lens. A clearer image is produced with a larger objective lens. The scopes have lens covers that protect the objective lens from dirt and scratches.

• Tube diameter

  20 mm scopes have a tube with a diameter of 1 inch or 30 mm. A larger tube gives more light. This is because there is more light transmission in the scope. The image is clearer with a larger tube.

• Elevation and windage adjustment

  Scope adjustment turrets are used to make adjustments for windage and elevation. The scope can be adjusted to different shooting conditions. This is because the scope maintains zero even after one makes adjustments.

Q&A

What does a 20 mm scope mean?

A 20 mm scope refers to the diameter of the scope's ocular (eyepiece) lens. This is the lens through which the shooter looks when viewing the reticle and target. The size of the scope's eyepiece is important because it will affect the amount of light that enters the scope and how much of the field of view a shooter has.

What is the difference between a 1-inch and a 20 mm scope?

A 1-inch scope and a 20 mm scope differ in tube diameter. The adjustment tube on a 1-inch scope is roughly equivalent to 25.4 mm, while the adjustment tube on a 20 mm scope is approximately 20 mm. Because of the difference in scope diameter, the 1-inch scope will have more adjustment elevation and dial windage than the 20 mm scope.

How to determine if a scope is good?

To determine if a scope is good, check if the scope is constructed with quality materials, has a lifetime warranty, and inspect the adjustment turrets and knobs to see if they are firm.