Trying to understand scope parallax (Read 3653 times)

Waka808

Trying to understand scope parallax
« on: July 13, 2013, 11:26:02 PM »
So I did a search and anything relating to "parallax" all fell under the classifieds.

I am very much still a beginner and always on the hunt for more knowledge like you all. This time, I'm trying to understand scope parallax, more specifically - ap/ao/pa.

I'm not doing any hunting, just strict plinking at the range, and am looking for a decent scope. This thread isn't about what scope to get so let's forego that and get to my question:

In looking at specs and reviews, it would seem that having a scope with adjustable parallax is a good thing. However, when I see scopes with stats like "parallax setting: 10 yards to infinity"... what does that mean? Does it mean that it has no adjustability? Which brings me to my second question, wouldn't you just always want something to be parallax free from the closest range on? Or does adjustability have correlation to the "blurred" out effect when you magnify?

I know this is quite the subject that have books written about them so I appreciate any analogical help to ease me into understanding this topic  :D

moosed

  • Trade Count: (+5)
  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 867
  • Total likes: 0
  • Well, I'm all broken up over that man's rights!
  • Referrals: 2
    • View Profile
Re: Trying to understand scope parallax
« Reply #1 on: July 14, 2013, 12:03:27 AM »
So I did a search and anything relating to "parallax" all fell under the classifieds.

I am very much still a beginner and always on the hunt for more knowledge like you all. This time, I'm trying to understand scope parallax, more specifically - ap/ao/pa.

I'm not doing any hunting, just strict plinking at the range, and am looking for a decent scope. This thread isn't about what scope to get so let's forego that and get to my question:

In looking at specs and reviews, it would seem that having a scope with adjustable parallax is a good thing. However, when I see scopes with stats like "parallax setting: 10 yards to infinity"... what does that mean? Does it mean that it has no adjustability? Which brings me to my second question, wouldn't you just always want something to be parallax free from the closest range on? Or does adjustability have correlation to the "blurred" out effect when you magnify?

I know this is quite the subject that have books written about them so I appreciate any analogical help to ease me into understanding this topic  :D

Here is some good, basic information, discussing the definitions, what causes parallax, and how to correct it.

http://www.6mmbr.com/parallax.html
When only cops have guns, it's called a "police state".

Dolomite

Re: Trying to understand scope parallax
« Reply #2 on: July 14, 2013, 12:04:45 AM »
This might help explain parallax....

http://www.6mmbr.com/parallax.html

moosed

  • Trade Count: (+5)
  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 867
  • Total likes: 0
  • Well, I'm all broken up over that man's rights!
  • Referrals: 2
    • View Profile
Re: Trying to understand scope parallax
« Reply #3 on: July 14, 2013, 12:05:16 AM »
This might help explain parallax....

http://www.6mmbr.com/parallax.html

Hah!  I won!! :)   :geekdanc:
When only cops have guns, it's called a "police state".

Dolomite

Re: Trying to understand scope parallax
« Reply #4 on: July 14, 2013, 12:07:54 AM »
LOL I just noticed.... it's a damn good website too
« Last Edit: July 14, 2013, 12:20:51 AM by Dolomite »

GZire

Re: Trying to understand scope parallax
« Reply #5 on: July 15, 2013, 02:09:56 PM »
Hah!  I won!! :)   :geekdanc:

Waco Kid is pretty fast on the draw.

Dolomite

Re: Trying to understand scope parallax
« Reply #6 on: July 15, 2013, 10:52:23 PM »
Here is a good video too