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There’s something magical about that first breath of crisp morning air in the field, the quiet anticipation as dawn breaks, and the weight of your rifle feeling steady in your hands. For a new hunter, that moment is deeply personal and profoundly exciting. But let’s be honest – it can also feel overwhelming. One of the biggest hurdles beginners face isn’t just tracking game or mastering marksmanship; it’s navigating the dizzying array of equipment choices, especially when it comes to selecting the right optic. The rifle scope sitting atop your barrel isn’t just an accessory; it’s your critical link to precision, confidence, and ethical shot placement in the field. Getting it wrong can turn a promising hunt into frustration or, worse, compromise your ability to make a clean, responsible shot.
You’ve probably seen countless articles shouting about “The 10 Best Scopes for 2026!” promising instant success. While well-intentioned, these lists often miss the mark for someone just starting their hunting journey. Why? Because the absolute best scope for you isn’t found on a generic ranking; it’s the one perfectly matched to your specific rifle, your hunting environment, your shooting style, and your budget. Chasing the “hottest new model” without understanding the core principles can lead to overspending on features you don’t need or, conversely, buying something too flimsy for the realities of the field. This guide cuts through the marketing noise. We’ll focus on the essential features and considerations every beginner hunter must understand to make an informed, confident decision – one that builds skills and enhances the experience, not complicates it. Forget fleeting “top 10” lists; let’s build your foundational knowledge for a lifetime of successful hunting.
Top 10 Rifle Scopes for Beginners
Detailed Product Reviews
1. UUQ 3-9×40 Rifle Scope with Red/Green Illumination and Rangefinder Reticle-Fits 20mm Free Mounts,Waterproof and Fog-Proof
Overview: The UUQ 3-9x40 rifle scope targets hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking versatile mid-range optics. It features variable magnification, dual-color illumination, and robust weatherproofing, designed for reliable performance in diverse field conditions.
What Makes It Stand Out: Dual red/green illumination with five brightness levels ensures target acquisition in low light, while the rangefinder reticle simplifies distance estimation. Full multi-coated lenses deliver exceptional 95% light transmission, and aircraft-grade aluminum construction with nitrogen purging guarantees waterproof, fog-proof durability. The included 20mm mounts and adjustable diopter add user-friendly versatility.
Value for Money: Priced competitively for mid-tier optics, it outperforms cheaper single-coated scopes in clarity and withstands harsher conditions than similarly priced models. The inclusion of flip-up lens covers and mounting rings enhances its cost efficiency versus bare-bones alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Superior light transmission; rugged, weather-sealed build; intuitive dual-color reticle; easy-to-use windage/elevation turrets (1/4 MOA). Weaknesses: Narrower field of view at 9x magnification; flip-up covers may snag on gear during fast handling.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-around choice for hunters needing dependable, illuminated optics in variable light. Its balance of clarity, durability, and features justifies the price for serious shooters seeking mid-range precision.
2. CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24x50 AOE Red and Green Illuminated Gun Scope with Free Mount
Overview: The CVLIFE 6-24x50 scope delivers high-magnification versatility for long-range hunting and target shooting, featuring dual-color illumination and a generous 50mm objective lens for enhanced light gathering in low-light scenarios.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its standout feature is the broad 6-24x magnification range, ideal for extreme-distance engagements where most mid-tier scopes max out at 12-18x. The 50mm objective lens and red/green illuminated reticle (with adjustable brightness) ensure target visibility at dusk or in dense cover, while the included mounts simplify setup.
Value for Money: Offers premium-level magnification at a budget-friendly price, undercutting comparable Leupold or Vortex models by 40-50%. Though build quality is functional rather than luxurious, the optical performance for the cost makes it a compelling entry for long-range beginners.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Exceptional zoom range for price; bright, clear image in low light; easy windage adjustments; includes mounting rings. Weaknesses: Narrow field of view at high magnification (28 ft @ 100yds); 1/8 MOA click adjustments lack precision for competitive shooting; plastic components feel less durable than aluminum alternatives.
Bottom Line: A solid budget pick for varmint hunters or recreational long-range shooters prioritizing magnification over mil-spec ruggedness. Best suited for stable shooting positions due to its narrow FOV at max zoom.
3. CVLIFE 3-9x40 Rifle Scope, Red & Green Illuminated Optical Riflescope, Mil-dot Reticle Scope for Hunting with Mounts
Overview: This CVLIFE riflescope combines a classic 3-9x40 magnification range with dual-color illumination and a mil-dot reticle, tailored for hunters needing adaptable optics for medium-range shots in varying light.
What Makes It Stand Out: The mil-dot reticle enables precise holdovers and windage compensation, while five-level red/green illumination ensures reticle visibility from dawn to dusk. Multi-coated lenses achieve 95% light transmission, and nitrogen-filled, aluminum construction delivers reliable waterproofing. The dioptric adjustment accommodates shooters with vision impairments.
Value for Money: Exceptional for budget-conscious hunters, matching premium scopes’ core functionality at half the price. The included 20mm mounts and robust weatherproofing eliminate costly add-ons, offering turnkey readiness unmatched in its price bracket.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Crisp, bright optics with true color fidelity; intuitive capped turrets (1/4 MOA); comfortable eye relief (3”); excellent fog/rain resistance. Weaknesses: Illumination can wash out in bright daylight; mil-dot reticle lacks fine-grained subtensions for extreme precision; turret caps may loosen with heavy recoil.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for deer or hog hunters needing a reliable, no-fuss scope. Its versatility, durability, and included accessories make it a top value for mid-range hunting applications.
4. Simmons Truplex .22 Mag 4x32 Riflescope, Rimfire Rifle Scope with TrueZero Adjustment System and Rings Included, Low Caliber and Airsoft Riflescope
Overview: The Simmons Truplex 4x32 is a dedicated rimfire and airsoft scope engineered for low-recoil platforms like .22LR rifles, emphasizing simplicity, durability, and ease of use for plinking or small-game hunting.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its fixed 4x magnification and 32mm objective lens provide a wide field of view (ideal for moving targets) and true point-and-shoot usability. The TrueZero adjustment system maintains zero after recoil, while the matte finish minimizes glare. Rings-included packaging ensures immediate deployment.
Value for Money: Unbeatable as an entry-level rimfire scope. At this price, competitors often omit mounts or skimp on sealing; Simmons delivers reliable performance with weather resistance and a trusted name, costing less than most scope+rings bundles.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Shockproof for rimfire recoil; expansive FOV for tracking; lightweight; virtually indestructible matte coating; ideal eye relief for low-caliber rifles. Weaknesses: Fixed magnification limits versatility; single-coated lenses reduce low-light clarity; not suitable for high-recoil centerfire rifles.
Bottom Line: The definitive budget scope for .22LR enthusiasts. If you need a “set-and-forget” optic for casual shooting or squirrel hunting, this is the most practical, no-nonsense choice under $100.
5. Rifle Scope, 3-9X32, 3-9X40, 3-9X50, Green Lens, Fast Focus Eyepiece, Free Ring Mounts, Air Rifle Scope, Optics Reticle Crosshair Scope (3-9X32)
Overview: The SVITVU 3-9x32 scope offers adjustable magnification and green-coated lenses for air rifles or low-recoil firearms, targeting budget hunters and airgunners needing basic, weather-resistant optics with flexible mounting.
What Makes It Stand Out: Unique green multi-coated lenses enhance contrast in wooded environments, while the fast-focus eyepiece ensures quick target acquisition. Aircraft-grade aluminum construction with O-ring sealing provides military-grade waterproofing, and dual 20mm/11mm mounts (on 3-9x32/40 models) offer universal rail compatibility.
Value for Money: Extremely cost-effective for airgunners, with green lenses typically found in pricier optics. The inclusion of multiple mount types and responsive customer support (12-hour turnaround) adds tangible value over competitors at similar price points.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Green coating improves target definition in greenery; excellent fog/rain sealing; smooth magnification ring; versatile mounting options; strong warranty support. Weaknesses: Green tint slightly distorts natural colors; 3-9x50 variant lacks 20mm mounts; eye relief is tight (2.95”–3.94”) for high-recoil rifles.
Bottom Line: A smart buy for air rifle or .22 WMR shooters prioritizing weatherproofing and mounting flexibility. Avoid for high-recoil firearms, but ideal for pest control or backyard plinking where color contrast matters.
6. Rifle Scope 3-9X40, Red/Green Rangefinder Illuminated Optical Rifle Scope, Fits 20mm Free Mounts
Overview: This mid-range rifle scope delivers versatile magnification (3-9x) and dual-color illumination for diverse shooting conditions, targeting hunters and airsoft enthusiasts. Its rangefinder reticle aids rapid target acquisition.
What Makes It Stand Out: Dual-color (red/green) illumination with five brightness levels ensures usability in low light, while full multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission for clear imagery. The included 20mm mounts and rangefinder reticle simplify setup and ranging up to 300 yards.
Value for Money: Priced competitively, it outperforms budget scopes with superior optics and included mounts. Though lacking parallax adjustment, it offers excellent bang for buck for casual hunters versus pricier tactical models.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Reliable illumination, crisp optics, easy mounting, robust waterproofing. Weaknesses: No parallax correction limits long-range precision; exit pupil specs appear inflated (likely a typo).
Bottom Line: A solid, affordable choice for medium-range shooting where simplicity and illumination matter most—ideal for beginners or recreational use.
7. CVLIFE 2-10x32 MPVO AO Rifle Scope with Locking Turret, 5 Levels Red & Green Illuminated Reticle, Parallax Adjustment, Second Focal Plane, 30mm Offset Scope Mount
Overview: Engineered for precision shooting, this scope combines a 2-10x magnification range with adjustable objective (AO) parallax correction and dual-color illumination, targeting serious hunters and tactical shooters.
What Makes It Stand Out: The AO lens eliminates parallax error, while exposed locking turrets (with 1/2 MOA clicks and 70 MOA travel) enable rapid zeroing. Fully multi-coated green lenses and 500-round shockproofing ensure durability in harsh conditions.
Value for Money: Justifies its mid-tier price with pro features like AO adjustment and locking turrets—typically found in premium scopes. Outperforms non-AO competitors for long-range accuracy without excessive cost.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Exceptional parallax control, rugged 1000G-tested build, crisp illuminated reticle. Weaknesses: Shorter eye relief risks scope bite; 32mm objective limits low-light performance versus 40mm+ models.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for hunters needing parallax correction and reliable adjustments—a versatile performer that bridges budget and high-end scopes.
8. UUQ 3-9×40 Rifle Scope with Gun Laser, Red/Green Illumination, and Rangefinder Reticle - for Hunting, Airsoft, and Pellet Guns,Waterproof and Fog-Proof,Fits 20mm Free Mounts,Includes Batteries
Overview: A unique 2-in-1 kit bundling a 3-9x40 scope with a Class IIIA red laser sight, designed for hunters and airsoft players seeking rapid target acquisition in varied environments.
What Makes It Stand Out: The integrated laser (50–300 ft daytime range) complements the scope’s dual-color illuminated reticle and rangefinder. Aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures waterproof/fog-proof reliability, while full multi-coating enhances clarity.
Value for Money: Adds significant value via the laser accessory at minimal cost premium over standalone scopes. Ideal for close-range scenarios where lasers expedite aiming, though the laser’s utility diminishes beyond 100 yards.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Laser integration for quick close-ups, durable nitrogen-filled housing, straightforward mounting. Weaknesses: Laser battery life unverified; rangefinder reticle less precise than MIL-DOT for long shots.
Bottom Line: A niche pick for close-quarters use—excellent if the laser suits your needs, but opt for traditional scopes for pure long-range accuracy.
9. CVLIFE 4x32 Compact Rifle Scope Crosshair Optics Hunting Scope with 20mm Mounts
Overview: A no-frills, fixed 4x magnification scope built for fast target engagement, targeting hunters prioritizing portability and reliability in dense terrain or quick-moving scenarios.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its ultra-compact 7.48" length and lightweight design enable swift maneuvering, while fully coated optics deliver bright images. Fully sealed construction guarantees fog/water resistance in all weather.
Value for Money: Exceptional for budget-conscious buyers. At this price, few scopes offer comparable durability and optical clarity—ideal as a secondary optic or for beginners avoiding complex adjustments.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Unbeatable portability, shockproof reliability, simple zeroing. Weaknesses: Fixed magnification limits versatility; 32mm objective reduces low-light performance versus larger models.
Bottom Line: The top choice for close-range hunting or backup use where size and simplicity trump magnification—maximizes value for basic applications.
10. UUQ 4-16X44 AO Rifle Scope for Hunting with Locking Turret Sunshade,SFP,R/G/B Illumination,Crosshairs Reticle,Front Parallax Adjustment,Fits 20mm Free Mount-Long Range Optics for Airgun,Airsoft,Pellet
Overview: A high-magnification (4-16x) scope with RGB illumination and parallax adjustment, engineered for precision long-range shooting across airguns, airsoft, and hunting applications.
What Makes It Stand Out: Tri-color (red/green/blue) illuminated reticle with independent brightness settings adapts to any lighting. AO parallax correction, exposed locking turrets with zero-reset, and included sunshade elevate tactical utility beyond competitors.
Value for Money: Premium features justify the higher cost for serious shooters. The RGB reticle and sunshade add unique versatility, outperforming single-color rivals in variable light without matching高端 price tags.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Unmatched illumination customization, precise parallax control, rugged aircraft-grade build. Weaknesses: Complex setup for beginners; SFP reticle scales inconsistently at high magnification.
Bottom Line: A top-tier pick for long-range enthusiasts needing adaptable illumination and parallax correction—worth the investment for dedicated precision shooters.
Understanding the Core Purpose of a Hunting Scope
Magnification Power: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Magnification is often the first spec beginners fixate on, but more isn’t inherently better for hunting. Lower magnifications (1x to 4x) offer a wider field of view, crucial for tracking moving game at close range in dense woods. Higher magnifications (9x and above) excel for long-range shots on open terrain but significantly narrow your view and amplify hand shake. For most beginner hunters pursuing deer, elk, or similar game in varied terrain, a versatile variable scope in the 3-9x range provides the ideal balance, offering enough zoom for distance while retaining usability up close. Consider the typical shot distances in your hunting area before locking in a magnification range.
Objective Lens Size: Light Gathering vs. Bulk
The objective lens (the big one at the front) determines how much light enters the scope. Larger lenses (40mm, 50mm) gather more light, improving image brightness and clarity, especially during low-light dawn and dusk hunting – prime times for game movement. However, larger lenses also mean a heavier, bulkier scope that sits higher on the rifle, potentially complicating mounting and affecting the rifle’s balance. Beginners often benefit from the sweet spot of a 40mm or 42mm objective lens, offering excellent low-light performance without excessive weight or height for most common calibers and hunting scenarios.
Field of View: Your Situational Awareness Window
Field of View (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at 100 yards. It’s inversely related to magnification: higher magnification means a narrower FOV. A wide FOV is critical for tracking moving animals, spotting game quickly in thick cover, and maintaining awareness of your surroundings. Scopes with lower magnification ranges inherently offer wider FOVs. Prioritize a scope that provides the widest possible FOV within your needed magnification range – this is often a more practical consideration for beginner hunters than chasing the absolute highest magnification available.
Critical Optical Performance Factors
Clarity and Resolution: Seeing the Target Clearly
Beyond just magnification, the quality of the glass and lens coatings determines how sharp, bright, and true-to-life the image appears. Multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses significantly reduce glare, increase light transmission, and improve contrast and color fidelity. For a beginner, clear optics are non-negotiable; a blurry or dim image makes target identification difficult and erodes confidence in shot placement. Don’t underestimate how much better a well-constructed optic performs in real-world, less-than-ideal lighting compared to a cheaper, poorly coated alternative.
Light Transmission: Making Sense in Low Light
Closely tied to clarity, light transmission percentage indicates how much available light actually passes through the scope to your eye. High-quality scopes with premium coatings can transmit 90%+ of available light, while budget models might only manage 70-80%. This difference is stark during the critical low-light periods at the beginning and end of the hunting day. For beginners hunting in typical forested or mixed environments, investing in a scope with demonstrably high light transmission is one of the most impactful choices for consistent performance when it matters most.
Parallax Adjustment: When Precision Demands It
Parallax error occurs when the reticle appears to move off the target as you shift your eye position behind the scope. At lower magnifications and typical hunting distances (under 200 yards), most quality hunting scopes are factory-set to be parallax-free. However, as magnification increases (typically above 10x) or when shooting at longer ranges, parallax adjustment becomes crucial for precise shot placement. For the vast majority of beginner hunters sticking to moderate ranges, a fixed parallax scope (usually set at 100 or 150 yards) is perfectly adequate and simplifies operation. Don’t feel pressured to get adjustable parallax unless you plan on serious long-range shooting immediately.
Physical Build and Durability Essentials
Tube Diameter: 1 Inch vs. 30mm - Practical Differences
The main tube diameter (1" or 30mm/1.2") primarily affects internal adjustment travel and mounting height, not optical performance. A 30mm tube often allows for more elevation/windage adjustment range, beneficial for long-range shooting, and can be slightly stronger. However, 1" scopes are generally lighter, more compact, and often sit lower on the rifle, which can improve handling and cheek weld for many shooters. For beginner hunters focused on standard hunting distances, the 1" tube remains the most popular, practical, and cost-effective choice, offering ample adjustment and easier mounting solutions.
Construction Materials: Aluminum vs. Steel
Most quality hunting scopes use aircraft-grade aluminum for the main tube. It offers an excellent balance of strength, light weight, and corrosion resistance. Some premium or tactical scopes might use steel for extreme durability, but this adds significant weight. Aluminum (often denoted as “6061-T6” or similar) is perfectly sufficient for the rigors of hunting when properly anodized. Avoid scopes made from lower-grade materials or unspecified alloys, as they may lack the necessary strength and weather resistance. Durability is paramount – your scope must withstand recoil, bumps, rain, and temperature swings.
Waterproofing and Fog Proofing: Non-Negotiable for the Field
Your scope will encounter moisture – morning dew, rain, snow, or even your own breath in cold weather. A scope must be both waterproof (sealed to prevent liquid ingress) and fog proof (purged with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent internal fogging). This isn’t a luxury; it’s essential reliability. Look for explicit specifications stating “O-ring sealed,” “nitrogen purged,” or “argon purged.” Scopes lacking these features are unreliable investments for hunting and will likely fail when you need them most, leaving you with a useless optic in damp conditions.
Recoil Resistance: Built to Handle Your Caliber
Different calibers generate vastly different levels of recoil. A scope designed for a lightweight .223 rifle might not survive the repeated hammer blows of a powerful magnum cartridge. Scopes must be engineered and tested to withstand the specific recoil impulse of the rifle they’ll be mounted on. Reputable manufacturers clearly state the recoil suitability for their scopes. As a beginner, ensure the scope you choose is explicitly rated for the recoil of your specific hunting rifle caliber – this is a fundamental safety and reliability requirement.
User-Friendly Operation for New Hunters
Eye Relief: Comfort and Safety Behind the Rifle
Eye relief is the distance your eye needs to be from the eyepiece lens to see the full field of view without “scope bite” (the scope hitting your eyebrow during recoil). Insufficient eye relief is uncomfortable and dangerous. Hunting scopes typically offer eye relief between 3.5" and 4.5". Beginners should prioritize scopes offering at least 3.5" of eye relief, especially when using higher-recoil rifles. Proper eye relief ensures a comfortable shooting position, a full sight picture, and prevents painful injury – never compromise on this critical safety and usability factor.
Reticle Choice: Simplicity is Key for Beginners
The reticle (crosshair) design is a major decision point. Complex reticles with multiple holdover points or illuminated features can be overwhelming for new shooters. Start simple. A standard duplex reticle (thick outer wires tapering to fine crosshairs in the center) is incredibly versatile, easy to use, and sufficient for most hunting situations within typical ranges. Avoid multi-reticle systems or complex BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles initially; they require significant practice and ballistic knowledge to use effectively. Master the basics with a clean, uncluttered duplex reticle before considering advanced options.
Turret Adjustments: Dialing for Accuracy
Turrets are the knobs on top (elevation) and side (windage) used to zero the scope and make adjustments. Beginners should look for scopes with clear, tactile, audible clicks (e.g., 1/4 MOA per click) and resettable zero stops. Finger-adjustable turrets are much easier to use in the field than those requiring a coin or tool. While target-style turrets with large caps are popular, a reliable, smooth-operating hunting turret that allows precise adjustments without being overly complex is ideal. Avoid scopes with stiff, sticky, or imprecise turrets – consistent, reliable adjustments are fundamental to accuracy.
Ease of Use in the Field: Intuitive Design Matters
Beyond specs, consider how the scope feels in practical use. Can you easily adjust magnification while maintaining cheek weld? Are the turrets accessible with gloves on? Is the focus ring (for the eyepiece) smooth and positioned where you can reach it? How quickly can you transition between magnification settings? A scope that requires contortions or constant fiddling detracts from the hunt. Prioritize ergonomic design and intuitive operation – features that become second nature in the field are invaluable for a beginner building confidence.
Practical Considerations for Your First Purchase
Budget Realities: Investing Wisely Without Overpaying
Setting a realistic budget is crucial. While you shouldn’t buy the absolute cheapest scope, you also don’t need the most expensive model loaded with features you won’t use. Focus your budget on core optical quality (glass, coatings), essential durability (waterproofing, recoil resistance), and reliable adjustments. Spending moderately within a reputable brand’s mid-tier line often delivers the best value for beginners – avoiding the pitfalls of ultra-cheap optics while skipping unnecessary premium features. View this as a foundational investment in your hunting success, not an area to cut corners excessively.
Mounting Hardware: The Critical Connection
The scope is only as good as its mount. Never skimp on rings and bases. Quality, one-piece mounts or robust two-piece rings made from steel or solid aluminum are essential for maintaining zero and handling recoil. Ensure the mount height (low, medium, high) is appropriate for your rifle’s receiver and your cheek weld on the stock. Ill-fitting or weak mounts are the #1 cause of lost zero, regardless of scope quality. Factor the cost of proper mounting hardware into your total budget – it’s not optional.
Warranty and Customer Service: Peace of Mind
Reputable scope manufacturers stand behind their products with solid warranties, often lifetime guarantees covering defects and sometimes even accidental damage. Investigate the warranty terms before you buy. Good customer service is invaluable if you encounter any issues. A brand known for honoring warranties promptly and fairly provides significant peace of mind, especially for a beginner investing in their first quality optic. Don’t overlook this aspect of long-term value.
Maintaining Your Investment
Proper Cleaning Techniques: Preserving Clarity
Keeping lenses clean is vital for optimal performance, but improper cleaning can scratch coatings. Always use a proper lens cleaning kit designed for optics: a blower brush to remove loose debris first, high-quality lens tissue or microfiber cloths, and lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens. Clean lenses gently in a circular motion from the center outward. Avoid clothing, shirt tails, or paper towels – they will scratch. Regular, careful cleaning ensures you always have a clear sight picture.
Storage and Transportation: Avoiding Damage
When not in use, store your rifle with the scope in a cool, dry place. A padded gun case is ideal. For extended storage, consider silica gel desiccant packs inside the case to absorb moisture. When transporting the rifle, use a hard case or ensure the scope is protected from bumps and jostling. Avoid leaving the rifle with the scope exposed to extreme temperature swings or direct sunlight for prolonged periods. Simple precautions prevent unnecessary wear and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the single most important feature for a beginner hunter to prioritize in a rifle scope? How much magnification do I really need for deer hunting in typical woods? Can I save money by buying a very cheap scope for my first rifle? Why is eye relief so critical, and what’s the minimum I should look for? Do I absolutely need an adjustable objective lens or parallax correction? What’s the difference between 1-inch and 30mm scope tubes, and which is better for me? Are illuminated reticles helpful for beginners, or just a distraction? How important is the brand name when choosing my first hunting scope? What does “fully multi-coated” actually mean, and why should I care? How can I tell if a scope is truly durable enough for hunting before I buy it?