Many modern scopes allow for adjustable parallax and whilst older models tend to feature an adjustable objective (AO) front collar, more recent designs now utilize a side parallax knob, effectively the third turret. Some scopes include a side wheel which fits over this adjuster, and the idea is that the differences between distance markings are then expanded via the wheel, making them more obvious, and effectively easier to read off.

Where a side wheel is not included, it may be available as an optional extra, and will often be a friction fit, to be pushed into position over the turret. Other designs use small retaining screws, but either way, they’re easy and quick to install.

A spirit level for shooting is a really neat addition to any favourite gun/ scope combination, and
once correctly set up, the idea is that it will instantly tell the shooter whether they are canting the scope off to one side whilst in the aim. Canting can cause a cross over, where shots impact off to the left or right side of the intended point, but using a spirit level should at least eliminate this error from the equation. Spirit levels are permitted and very much needed in Field Target shooting (where ultra high sight lines are common), but they can also be a big help when hunting in the field. Levels are outlawed in HFT competition however.

Flip-up Lens Covers

Flip-up lens covers are a neat and cheap add-on, which can instantly help protect expensive scope lenses, from grit, dirt, and temporarily, rain whilst waiting for a lull in the proceedings. Hawke produce a range, but perhaps the Rolls Royce of flip-ups is Butler Creek (available at R&C), and this American brand has been in the game for years. What makes them so good is the obvious quality, and spring-loaded release button, which just works so well. Whichever brand you opt for, be careful to specify the exact size of the scope’s ocular and objective lenses, to ensure that they will fit a particular scope correctly.

Windicator

A wind indicator (or windicator if you will) is a great idea to gauge wind direction and strength, and whilst a simple piece of wool tied from the barrel may well work, a relatively inexpensive, dedicated bolt on, swing-out bar, allows for increased movement and subtlety, streamlining the operation.

Rowen Engineering, The Shooters Barn, and Maestro-Design all make and supply appropriate devices.

Sunshades have become very popular, even trendy items, and are routinely included with many scopes from new. However, many don’t come with any add-ons, but there’s no need to feel left out, as companies such as Hawke (available at R&C), produce a variety of sunshades to fit a multitude of scope sizes. Fitting is again very simple, just requiring the outer finishing ring of the front objective bell, to be uncrewed and removed, and the sunshade gently then screws into position. By adding a few more inches of tube in front of the lens, the scope’s depth of field is effectively increased, with the added advantage of some light dazzle being eliminated along the way. Sunshades are popular with Hunter Field Target shooters for this reason, and in theory, should help with differentiating between different target distances.

Scope enhancers or lens shrouds, are popular with outdoor competition shooters, and where Field Target is concerned, the super high magnification necessitates such a device, in order to eliminate any back light entering the rear ocular lens. High magnification which FT requires, normally results in a far darker sight picture, and navigating targets in a dark wood can be very challenging. Pull on a rubber shroud, and the image is immediately accentuated.

Again, all those same benefits are equally relevant to a hunting scenario, and with shrouds/enhancers costing relatively little, they can be a game changer.

Bisley Shooting Products and The Shooting Barn are two options for these neat little add-ons.