Choosing the right scope can make a huge difference to accuracy, confidence, and overall enjoyment when shooting. Whether you’re target shooting, pest controlling, or spending time on the range, a well-matched optic helps you get the best from your air rifle or shotgun.
With so many options available, knowing what to look for is key. This guide breaks down the essentials — and includes direct links to relevant scopes and mounts available from Solware.
Start with the Right Product Range
Before anything else, check out Solware’s full optics range:
👉 Optics & Scopes — www.solware.co.uk/optics (this includes rifle scopes, mounts, binoculars and more)
For dedicated rifle optics you can also browse:
👉 Air Rifle & Rifle Scopes — www.solware.co.uk/air-rifle-scopes (telescopic sights for airguns and rifles)
Understand How You’ll Be Using Your Scope
Think about how and where you shoot:
- Target shooting — precision and clarity matter most
- Pest control — quick target acquisition and reliability
- Short range vs long range — influences magnification choice
Being clear on purpose helps you match features to real needs rather than just picking the biggest magnification available.
Choosing the Right Magnification
Magnification determines how close your target appears through the scope.
- Low (e.g., 2–7x) — easier to acquire targets at close range
- Mid (e.g., 3–9x) — very versatile for most air rifle work
- High (10x+) — better for long-range precision
Solware stocks a wide variety of scopes across these ranges, including options from trusted brands like MTC Optics and Hawke Optics.
Example links you might reference:
- 👉 Hawke rifle scopes — www.solware.co.uk/deben-hawke-sights (wide range from budget to premium)
- 👉 MTC Optics scopes — www.solware.co.uk/mtc-optics (robust choices for general shooting)
- 👉 Vortex optics range — www.solware.co.uk/vortex-telescopic-sights (popular shooter-friendly options)
- 👉 Wulf telescopic sights — www.solware.co.uk/wulf-telescopic-sights (good value scopes)
Reticle Types Explained
The reticle (crosshair) you choose affects how easy it is to aim:
- Standard crosshair — simple and clean
- Mil-dot — helps estimate range and holdover
- Illuminated — useful in low-light conditions
If you’re unsure, start with a straightforward mil-dot design — it’s versatile and beginner-friendly.
Scope Durability and Airgun Compatibility
Not all scopes are suitable for all guns. Spring-powered air rifles, for example, create a double recoil, so airgun-rated scopes and proper mounts are crucial.
Solware’s optics range includes models designed for air rifles and rifles, with the right shock resistance and adjustment capability built in.
Eye Relief and Mounts
Eye relief is the comfortable distance your eye can be from the scope while still seeing a full image. Too short, and your eye will strain; too long, and you’ll struggle to get a clear sight picture.
Mounts matter too. You’ll want the right fit for your rifle’s dovetail or Picatinny rail:
👉 Explore scope mounts and accessories — www.solware.co.uk/optics (scope mounts section)
Final Tips Before You Buy
✔ Don’t over-magnify, bigger isn’t always better
✔ Prioritise glass quality and light transmission
✔ Match your scope to shooting distance and style
✔ Make sure mounts are robust and correctly aligned
Taking the time to choose the right scope improves accuracy, confidence, and enjoyment every time you shoot.
Need Help Choosing?
If you’re unsure which scope best suits your rifle or shotgun, the team at Solware can help you find the ideal match based on your shooting style and target distances. They offer expert advice alongside a broad range of optics, mounts, and accessories to support every level of shooter.