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How to Use a Variable Scope for a Range Finder

A variable-power scope can be used to determine range using the scope's crosshairs and a simple math formula. Many variable scopes feature crosshairs that have ranging marks along their length, usually in the forms of dashes or dots. If your scope is not equipped with range marks on the crosshairs, you can still determine range by approximate estimation. The algebraic equation determines range in meters. if you desire range in a different measurement, you must convert the distance.

Things You'll Need

Scope with range marks
Calculator
Distance conversion table

Instructions

- 1
  Try to determine a known height in meters of an object at the firing range. For example a truck that is approximately 6-feet high would measure 2 meters.
- 2
  Aim your scope at the target. Line up the horizontal crosshair with the bottom of your object.
- 3
  Count the number of range marks to the top of your object. If the top is within the gap between range marks, estimate the percentage used. For example, if the top is approximately halfway between the range marks, record it as "0.5."
- 4
  Divide the height of the object by the range mark, and multiply your answer by 1,000. If the object is two-meters high and the range mark count is 2.5, your equation would read: (2 ÷ 2.5) x 1,000 = 800. The range is 800 meters.

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