Why Budget Optics Can Be Perfectly Adequate for Your Shooting Needs
Some shooters, especially those new to the sport or with limited budgets, might think they don’t need optics on their rifles. They either trust their iron sights or don’t want to shell out the cash for a quality red dot or riflescope. However, a common saying in the shooting community—that your optic should cost more than your rifle—is not a hard and fast rule. A higher price tag does not always guarantee superior performance or reliability.
Take Gunwerks, for instance. They are renowned for their accurate rifles, capable of hitting targets at 1,000 yards right out of the box, with starting prices around $4,975. Their optics are never more expensive than their rifles, averaging around $3,000. While these optics are undoubtedly high quality, it doesn't mean more affordable options can't perform well for many shooters' needs.
This applies when comparing firearms to other firearms as well. A Diamondback DB10 is an excellent .308 rifle. It's durable, ergonomic, and accurate right out of the box. This $1,000 rifle is almost certainly superior in performance to a substantially higher priced firearm like a Dragunov SVD because it's a newer design built with modern gunsmithing principles on an inherently more accurate platform. The Dragunov only reaches its high price point because of its fame and rarity.
As you climb the price ladder with optics, the improvements in performance often become less significant. For instance, a $1,000 red dot might offer only a slight improvement in clarity over a $500 red dot. Both will still allow the shooter to rapidly engage targets with both eyes open. Similarly, a $100 magnifier will magnify just as effectively as a $300 magnifier, with differences primarily in form factor and perhaps some reduction in scope shadow.
Very expensive optics often cater to specific shooting disciplines like long-range shooting or 3-gun competitions. A hunter or casual shooter might not need the advanced magnification and windage adjustments found on a top-tier competition optic. Besides, shooting an animal from a thousand yards away is considered by many to be unethical due to the increased risk of wounding rather than a clean kill.
Budget-friendly optics can still excel in essential functionalities such as clarity, durability, repeatability of adjustments, and have a reliable reticle that holds zero. The key is to avoid spending on features you’ll never need and not overpay for performance you won't utilize.
For example, if you’re a stand hunter in an area surrounded by dense foliage making it impossible to shoot beyond 100 yards, you don’t need a $2,000 F-Class riflescope when a $150 scope will suffice. YouTuber Nick Barnes regularly hits tiny targets at considerable ranges, even in low light conditions, with his Diamondback DB15 and Firefield RapidStrike 1-6x24mm — a low-powered variable optic considered to be a “budget option” by many.
Choosing the right optic depends more on your specific needs and shooting style than on price. There are high-quality options available at various price points, allowing you to find the perfect balance of performance and affordability for your individual situation.
While high-end optics have their place in specialized shooting disciplines, budget optics can be just as effective for most shooters' needs. By focusing on the essential features that matter, you can find an optic that performs well without breaking the bank. Remember, the best optic is the one that meets your specific requirements and enhances your shooting experience, regardless of its price tag. Therefore, don’t let a limited budget deter you from enhancing your rifle with a capable and reliable optic. Choose wisely, and you’ll discover that even budget optics can provide exceptional value and performance.