Rifle Scopes 1x setting question

[dean1197]

Hi, does anyone have any opinions as to which scope might function better on 1x between the SWFA SS 1-4x vs SWFA SS 1-6x? I know the 1-6x isn't out yet but does adding that extra 2x magnification and kind of "stretching" the range of magnification have an impact on the 1x setting in any way.

If anyone has anything to add about other things like reticle thickness etc. between the two and what impact it would have that would be great.

Note: I guess the 2nd sentence can be taken as a more general question, i.e. Does "stretching" the magnification of a scope have any impact on the scopes functionality for the 1x setting

 

[BobD]

Re: 1x setting question

Dean1197,
A few notes...
All things being equal, a FFP scope's reticle will look the same, size and thickness, on 4x (eg.) whether it is a 1-4 or 1-6 mag as long as it is of the same design. Increasing the mag range alone will not affect the reticles appearance on its shared lower settings (1,2,3 and 4x) it will however appear larger at your high level (6x) where the marks would remain the same value while appearing closer to your target. 1x will always be 1x and whether using mils or moa represent the same the same space from each other in this design. I believe due to how small a FFP reticle appears at 1x SWFA has incorporated the design of the circle and outer posts to be used at these settings, very smart! (some companies obviously use different reticle thicknesses dependant on a scopes' intended use and account for its level of magnification)
However, with SWFA I believe the reticles are slightly different between the two models...1-4 and 1-6hd
Some say that for a given level of glass qualiy, increasing the the magnification range detiorates or detracts from its optimal performance. I do not know all the science behind this so it is somewhat conjecture and I'm offerring this as info you can look into if youre interested. Some other members may chime in otherwise and I'm not disputing it either way.This is not to say that higher mag range scopes cant have superior glass but some have said that stretching beyond 3-4x range is not optimal in design. But... Its done, and many do it very well: IOR, Bushnell, Leup, SWFA etc...

One last thing to think about: although it is a true 1x, increasing the mag range and length of the scope could affect the forgiveness of the eye box. Not saying it will for sure as there are too many other variables.

Honestly, if you can get your hands on the soon to be released 1-6HD I'd say take it. The design looks great and they have an outstanding reputation here.

I hope this helps and I'm sure some will chime in with a few correction or different opinions. Good luck-