Riflescopes are specified by a set of numbers such as 6×42 or 3-9x40 etc. The first number(s) indicates the power of magnification or how much larger, or closer, the object will appear than when seen with normal vision. For example in a riflescope designation 6 x 42, for example, objects will appear 6 times larger, or closer, than when seen with the naked eye.

When considering magnification, more is not necessarily better. As magnification increases, brightness and clarity may diminish, depth of field can become shallower and the field of view is usually more restricted. More noticeable and disturbing at higher powers are fine hand tremors and the effects of atmospheric conditions, such as the distortion caused by heat waves.

If your observation is done primarily at close range, such as in woodland area, then a good 9 X riflescope might be the best choice. This range of magnification generally gives you a larger picture (wider field of view) which is especially important for viewing objects relatively close at hand.

Also, riflescopes of this magnification usually deliver better performance under conditions of low available light, due either to the time of day, weather conditions, or shadows caused by dense vegetation or other structures. This same type of riflescope also works well for fast-moving action like sporting events, since the wide field of view allows the action to remain in the viewing area.

For long distance viewing or where greater detail is required, a higher magnification of 24 or 40 X should be considered. Great for target or long range shooting.

Remember: magnification should only be considered in relation to other factors such as aperture size, exit pupil, hand-held stability, atmospheric conditions, available light, optical design.