The state of handgun optics today?
Dave H.
[subject]
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10:25 (8 days ago)
What are you guys doing today for scopes on your handguns? Going to dots? Finding used glass? What?
I have a 410 GNR Encore barrel I am going to put on a new T/C Encore frame.
What would you put on such a barrel today?
I’ve never been shy on used glass…
WB
[subject]
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 12:56 (7 days ago) @ Dave H.
Look for wear or abuse, ring marks etc. new old stock is a bonus. I’d want a 4x on that rig. B&L, Leupold, Burris, Simmons (! Their 4x is exceptional).
I have had good luck with Nikon, Weaver, even some cheap disposable Cina. Wanted to try a Konus. I need magnification and something to brighten more than my eyes.
For just me, red or green dots are good for parallax free sighting and they actually all have a nullifying 1.3x magnification that sharpens view. Hood for me up to 50 yds. or so. But I’m about half blind.
I do have a few 2x and they are good to around 75-80yds for me. I enjoy their toughness and wide field of view. In the woods at HHC it’s perfect.
Variables are great but bunches more parts and complexity, possibly frail? Have them too. An Encore .410 is pretty beefy to soak up the recoil some. I have an Encore in .429.
I was thinking fixed
Dave H.
[subject]
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 15:19 (7 days ago) @ WB
Like a 2.5x or 3x or 4x. I do look used all the time. Just have to be patient.
A sleeper was the later 4x Simmons
WB
[subject]
Saturday, October 17, 2026, 16:00 (7 days ago) @ Dave H.
It had a lifetime transferable warranty. I used it on really bad kicking platforms while doing load work, to preserve my fancier hunting scopes. I broke one once, replaced for free, only paid shipping to them.
Another is the old B&L 2x28mm and 4x28. Great scopes. The Leupold 2x is exceptional for clarity too. Burris had a really good line too. The 3x was one of my favorites.
Tasco 30mm tube “World Class” with the etched glass reticle is highly sought too.