Scopes Recommendation for Small Game Hunting

Small Game Hunting: Small game hunting targets smaller wildlife species. It is often considered a traditional and regulated sport with legal requirements in specific times. Hunters usually hunt for challenges, fun or their meat.

Animal:
Small game hunting targets a variety of smaller animals, such as rabbits, squirrels, pheasants, quails, and sometimes waterfowl.

Distance:The typical shooting distance for hunting small game varies depending on the species, terrain, and the weapon used, from 20 to 100 yards.
Here are some common ranges:
Rabbits and Squirrels: When use shotguns, hunters typically engage within 20 to 40 yards. Those using .22 rifles or other small-caliber firearms may shoot at distance up to 50 yards.
Birds (like quails and pheasants): Shotgun hunters typically shoot flying birds from 20 to 40 yards away.

Time: Generally, early morning and late evening remain the optimal times for hunting.

Features of Scopes You Should Consider
Focal Plane: SFP is preferred considering that the shooting ranges are always from 20 to 50 yards.

Magnification: 1-4x, 1-6x, 2-7x, 3-9x. LPVO and MPVO is recommended, since the shooting range is pretty close up to 50 yards. Another advantage of LPVO is that it provides wide field of view and allow two-eyes-open shooting for chasing moving target.

Fiber/Etched reticle:
Both work quite well. For close-range shooting, G4 pattern is recommended. G4 pattern is quite straightforward and intuitive for quick target acquisition. The thicker lines draw your attention to the center. Etched reticle may be more durable compared to the fiber one, while fiber reticle possesses a more visible illuminated center dot.

Light transmission:
During close-range shooting, images with limited magnification often show minimal differences in viewing experiences. However, a scope with high light transmission is still preferred, particularly under low light conditions, as it enhances clarity and visibility, improving target acquisition and accuracy.

Recoil:
As previously noted, shotguns are preferred for small game hunting. Given that shotguns, particularly those in 12 Gauge, can generate significant felt recoil, it is advisable to use a scope designed to withstand heavy recoil.

Weight:
Typically, scopes weighs between 12 to 24 ounces (340 to 680g) are typically ideal for small game hunting and varmint hunting. This weight range strikes an optimal balance between durability and portability. Additionally, a lightweight scope added on their firearms can help hunters easily maintain balance when raising their firearms, making it easier to achieve a steady aim.

Summary:
An SFP LPVO with G4 reticle pattern is recommended. Other features may be considered less critical, if the budget is limited.

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