Short answer: for most air rifles, a variable scope around 4-16x or 6-24x with a 44 to 50mm objective and parallax/side focus that adjusts down to airgun distances covers hunting and target work. Pick first focal plane (FFP) if you use reticle holdovers at every magnification, or second focal plane (SFP) for a simpler, often lighter scope. Then match the mount to your rail (Picatinny or 11mm dovetail), your scope tube (1 inch, 30mm or 34mm), and the height you need for a good cheek weld.
Step 1: Magnification and Objective
| Use | Typical magnification | Examples we carry |
|---|---|---|
| Close-range pests, fast handling | 1-6x to 3-12x | Athlon Cronus BTR 1-6x24, Element IRIS 3-9x40 |
| General hunting and plinking | 4-16x to 4-20x | Element Helix Gen 2 4-16x44 FFP, Athlon Helos BTR 4-20x50 FFP |
| Long range and benchrest | 6-24x and up | Athlon Argos BTR 6-24x50 FFP, Element THEOS 6-36x56, ZCO ZC840 8-40x56 |
| Night and thermal (where legal) | Varies | Thermal optics |
Browse every brand in All Optics: Athlon, Element, Arken, Zero Compromise, Holosun and more.
Step 2: FFP or SFP?
- FFP (first focal plane): the reticle scales with magnification, so holdover marks are correct at any power. Popular for long range and airgun field target. Example: the Argos BTR Gen 2 6-24x50 FFP, which Athlon lists with a 30mm tube, zero stop and an illuminated ATMR reticle.
- SFP (second focal plane): the reticle stays the same size, and holdovers are calibrated at one magnification. Often simpler. Examples: Helix Gen 2 6-24x50 SFP, Athlon Heras SPR 4-20x50 SFP.
Step 3: Airgun-Specific Considerations
Close focus and parallax
Airguns are often shot at shorter ranges than rimfires. Check that the scope's side focus or parallax adjustment reaches the distances you shoot. The minimum is on each scope's spec sheet.
Turrets and zero stop
If you dial for distance, look for exposed turrets and a zero stop.
Step 4: Choose the Mount
| Your rifle rail | Mount type | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Picatinny (most modern PCPs, such as Karma EQ, FX King, AEA Challenger Pro) | Picatinny rings or one-piece mount | UTG Accu-Sync QR rings, Warne QD MSR mount, Athlon Armor cantilever 20 MOA |
| 11mm dovetail (such as AEA SF Series, AirForce Texan) | Dovetail rings | UTG PRO P.O.I. dovetail rings, FX No Limit dovetail |
Tube size
Match the ring diameter to your scope tube: 1 inch, 30mm or 34mm.
Built-in MOA
Rails and mounts with built-in elevation (20 or 30 MOA) help long-range shooters stay in the scope's elevation range. Karma rifles list 20 MOA rails, and the FX King and Karma Red Panda list 30 MOA. Account for the total of rail plus mount.
Adjustable mounts
FX's No Limit mounts adjust height (0.17 in) and angle (plus or minus 1.5 degrees). FX says the vertical adjustment shifts just over 4 yards at 100 yards, which is useful for long range.
Leveling
A level scope removes cant error. The UTG Accu-Sync Leveler adds a flip-to-side anti-cant bubble.
Free Mounting
Our Terms of Service note free mounting, sighting and accessory installation with rifle orders. Tell us what you are pairing and we will set it up. Shop all scope rings and mounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What magnification do I need for an air rifle?
For general hunting and plinking, 4-16x is a versatile range. For benchrest and long range, 6-24x or higher.
Should I buy FFP or SFP for an airgun?
FFP if you use holdovers at different magnifications. SFP if you mostly shoot at one power or want a simpler scope.
Do I need a special scope for a PCP?
PCPs don't have spring-piston recoil, so most quality rifle scopes work. Check close-focus distance for airgun ranges.
What mount do I need?
Match your rail type (Picatinny or 11mm dovetail), your scope tube diameter and the height needed for your cheek weld.
Do you mount scopes for free?
Our Terms of Service note free mounting, sighting and accessory installation with rifle orders.
Always follow the manufacturer manual, wear eye protection, and know your local laws before buying, carrying or shooting an airgun.
Talk to The Pellet Shop
Have a question about a specific rifle, caliber or setup? Visit our showroom in Westbury, NY, call or text (718) 450-4146, or email info@ThePelletShop.com. You can also browse every airgun we carry online. Specs in this article come from our product pages and manufacturer documentation and can change, so check the current product page before you buy.