First off some definitions - a scope is a general term used to describe a sighting device. But in the optics world a scope is typically any 'magnified' viewing device mounted to a gun. A sight, which can be a non-magnified red dot or a fixed mechanical iron sight, typically refers to an optic that has a 1x power used for nothing more than centering your focus on a target. People have their opinions on what is best, but most points of view are reinforced by the environment in which the scope/sight is being used.
The best all-around optic for woodsball is either a red dot scope or iron sight. How does a non-magnified aid the eye in firing? Well, it helps to center your focal point to a target quickly which is also referred to as 'fast target acquisition'. If you're familiar with either device, you already know that they are benificial in paintball for a few reasons. First, there is no required 'eye-relief' or distance that the sight must be from the eye to see the complete field of vision through the sight. This is crucial in paintball due to the required goggle and lens systems. Most fields are relatively short distances and do not require a magnified optic. Also, red dots allow you to keep the object in front of you in clear eye focus. When using a paintball red dot, you actually focus on the object rather than the scope. Your eye will pick up the reticle or red dot, providing a clear indicator for your shot should you pull the trigger.
Magnified scopes definitely have their place as well. Many players who consider themselves 'snipers or cover players' use magnified scopes for a few reasons. Obviously it gives them a clearer shot for targets beyond what the unaided eye would clearly see. A typical scope also offers natural shading for viewing your surroundings during times when intense sunlight is present. Also, you'll find a scope useful for surveillance similar to binoculars. A good 3x power scope can give you the edge in terms of where your opposition is hiding or the obstacles that lay ahead.
ROCKSTAR Tactical carries a vast amount of paintball scopes. Make the right selection by figuring out the type of rail or mounting platform on your marker (most are 7/8 picatinny 'slotted' or 3/8" dovetail 'non-slotted lip') and measure the amount of available top rail space. For marker owners with top hoppers or loaders, consider one of the many 'paintball offset rail' options we have available. If you have any questions regarding the right scope for you, just shoot us an email or call and we'll offer rock-solid advice.
I have a scope its more for looks .
ReplyDeleteI fail to see the need for a scope to aim when paintballs don't fly far or accurately enough to make one useful.
ReplyDeleteWhat I DO use my paintball scope for, and take note this is ONLY for paintball, and you should NEVER do this with any real firearm -- I use my scope as a convenient marker-mounted monocular, for scouting or seeing farther rather than aiming.
If you are considering buying a sight or scope for your paintball marker, it is VERY important that you know this first.
ReplyDeleteMost blowback type markers work by striking a spring-loaded valve with a weighted "hammer." When the valve is opened, expanding gas is used to blow the hammer back and reset it on the sear.
This jackhammer-like "forward-back" recoil is unique to pneumatics, and subjects anything attached to it to some pretty impressive shearing forces.
In this case, a cheap sight won't have many problems (plastic is much lighter), but expensive metal-and-glass optics, especially those that contain electronics, can easily lose their zero or even break completely under sustained operation.
Also keep in mind that most of the people you are shooting at will also be shooting directly back at you along your line of fire - and yes, they ARE in range.
This means the lenses of your scope will be exposed to direct hits. There is a huge difference between a 6mm plastic pellet and a .68 caliber gel-filled capsule - keep this in mind if you're picking up your new scope from an Airsoft shop.