Re: F-Class Glass???
Couple of points already made, but I would reiterate,
Reticle – I use a Nightforce NP-R1 or NP-R2 reticle. As pointed out earlier, the outlying vertical and horizontal marks can be used to “box” or “bracket” one of the scoring rings, or even the outside of the target. IMHO, this helps to make sure you are square on the target and not canted, and it helps you to get a more consistent aiming point. A single point or dot in the center of the reticle can “mix/fade/swim” in the black center scoring rings. The black outer marks in the reticle stand out very clearly against the white outer portions of the target. I use the outer marks to “square and center”, and then confirm the center aiming point in the reticle with the x ring. I have found with newer / less experienced F-Class shooters this can help. Obviously the more experienced shooters are doing well with a simple dot or fine reticle, however I think that also comes along with repeated use and adjustment to that sight picture.
Magnification – Simple for me. If you need it, but don’t have it, you can’t dial it up. If you do have it, but don’t need it, you can always dial it down. Based on a shooters eyesight, some will do much better with the higher magnification, comes down to a personal need based on the shooter. Based on Mirage, there will be times when you will need to adjust your magnification accordingly. I have seen Mirage bad enough that you needed to dial down to 15x-20x, versus the 30x-40x range where you would normally shoot at. IMHO, there is a reason why the majority of the F-Class Shooters run an adjustable 30x-40x scope. Greater magnification allows you a more precise sight picture. Adjustable magnification allows you to adjust for the conditions.
Objective Size – IMHO, bigger is better. I have been on a firing line at 08:00 AM on a very cloudy/overcast day, and lighting was definitely an issue. Per above, if you have the larger objective, you can take full advantage of the available light. If you have a smaller objective, you are stuck working with what you have.
MOA Adjustments – without a doubt at 1,000 yards, being able to adjust 1.25” with 1/8 MOA adjustments, versus 2.5” with 1/4 MOA adjustments can make a difference when it comes to shooting Xs (or Vs) versus just shooting a 10.
I am not always a real big fan of the “Herd” or “Follow me while I jump of this bridge mentality”, but if the majority of winning F-Class Shooters are using a variable power Nightforce NXS or BR in the 30x-40x range with a 56mm objective, then there is probably some “method to the madness”.
I can also appreciate the “I don’t have an unlimited bank account” issue, so I can also appreciate shooters who are looking for a more “economical” alternative. That being the case, I would say the above criteria still apply. Then it just comes to down to which scope can provide those, with the best quality glass and most repeatable adjustments that your budget will allow.
Best of Luck,
Capt Richardson
