What magnification is good to shoot ~400 yard?

[rockstar.esq]

So to point out something new, mirage gets magnified significantly at 400 yds and beyond. For that reason I use a 2.5-10X out to 1000yds. For hunting, setting the scope for 4X is probably a fine setup for the sort of shots commonly encountered afield. For me the best decision I've ever made with respect to optics is to buy a scope with a 30mm tube. The light transmission with the larger tube is significant, especially given that an increase in tube size is FAR cheaper than a step up in glass quality. If you're looking to dial in your dope, I'd really recommend something with target quality turrets. This is the hidden reason that scope prices jump so much. The glass may not be much different whereas the erector assembly represents the sort of machine like repeatability in adjustments target shooters are looking for. The Tasco Super sniper scope has a good reputation for good functionality at a decent price. As I recall, the entire Simmons line was redone with better mechanicals so maybe they'd be good too. I just used a Nikon Buckmaster today and I think it's a tremendous value although it's without target turrets.

 

[Essex County]

Still an old duffer and of the opinon that good distance shooting can be done at six to ten X. I have a couple of scopes higher than 12 power. Right now neither is mounted on anything. Essex

 

[10X]

From the way you worded your initial question I will assume that you haven't had much opportunity to experiment in the field with a friend's equipment. If that is the case, I would urge you to get a scope that is adaptable to different needs. A good choice is a quality variable scope in 3 X 9 or similar magnification ranges. With that you can adjustment to circumstances.

Much more magnification is difficult to work with in the field when dealing with wind, dust, moving targets, irregular ground and improvised rests. It is really hard to quickly get on target and not be wiggling the rifle. In less than ideal conditions and in a hurry less magnification is better. In ideal conditions more magnification works fine.

For 400 yards 9 power or so should work well.

One other major consideration, the quality of the glass/clarity of the scope make a huge difference for me.

I've hunted antelope and varmits with target rifles and 15X or more scopes. They work, but I always found myself going back to less magnification.

 

[TargetShooter2]

scope

i use a 8X32X56 on my varmit rifle

 

[____hoot____]

I have a 6X40 Bushnell Scopechief on my 30-06 I use for deerhunting. As 26 of the 28 deer I have shot have been under 100 yards here in the northern Michigan woods, I have the rifle sighted on at 100 yards. The step in the du-plex crosshair is then dead on at 350 yards with the 165 grain boattail handloads I use. I find that the crosshair wander is too distracting for quick shooting if I use more than 6X and varibles are also too damned distracting.