IPSC Rifle Divison Scope Recommendation

In our last blog post (IPSC Pistol Division Optics Recommendation), we have talked about the features you need to consider for IPSC handgun division. In this article, we will dive in the Rifle division. 

Rifle Division (shoot from 50m to 350m)

In IPSC rifle competitions, the shooting range is from 50m to 350m and the speed is counted in your points. This makes LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) the best choice for fast and accurate target acquisition. Several key features of scope you need to consider, if the LPVO is true 1x power, if the scope has wide field of view, and if the reticle is simple while accurate to target. There are more we need to explore.

True 1x Power to Shoot with Two Eyes Open

A true 1x power scope ensures that the image remains unmagnified and unobstructed when you look through the lens, allowing you to shoot with both eyes open. This feature particularly benefits fast-paced scenarios, such as IPSC competitions, where rapid target acquisition is crucial.

Another key factor to consider is the field of view. Compared to high-magnification scopes, low-magnification optics naturally provide a much wider field of view. This allows shooters to observe a larger area through the lens, making it easier to spot and transition between targets quickly. Generally, the maximium field of view exceeding 35 meters at 100 meters is considered wide and ideal for such applications.

Simple BDC Reticle with Illuminated Center Dot

In IPSC rifle competitions, shooters must excel in both speed and accuracy to outperform their competitors. A simple BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle with an illuminated center dot is an ideal choice for these dynamic scenarios. It offers clarity and simplicity, enabling fast target acquisition while maintaining precision at varying distances. Below is an example of a reticle specifically designed for IPSC competitions.

Click to check the reticle instruction. Additionally, with an illuminated center dot, shooters can rapidly aim the target even under the bright sunlight.

Large Eyebox is Preferred for IPSC Competition Due to Various Shooting Position

As mentioned in our previous blog post (How to Pick Your Continental Hunting Scope?), the eyebox refers to a 3D viewing area where the shooter’s eye must be positioned to see a full, clear image through the scope. This space exists between your eye and the scope, and the larger the eyebox, the more flexibility you have in head positioning. This is especially crucial in IPSC rifle competitions, where shooters must adapt to various shooting positions—such as prone, kneeling, or offhand—while maintaining speed and accuracy. Therefore, a generous and consistent eyebox allows for quicker alignment and a clear sight picture, even during rapid transitions or different shooting stances.

Although there isn’t a universal parameter to define the eyebox, you could check the eye relief, which plays a significant role in determining its size. Scopes with an eye relief of 4 inches (101mm) or more are typically considered to have a standard long eye relief, which supports a larger and more forgiving eyebox.

For a deeper dive into understanding the eyebox and its impact, check out our previous blog post for more insights. (How to Pick Your Continental Hunting Scope? - Academy - Vector Optics)

Most of our LPVOs feature a generous eye relief of 4 inches (101mm), ensuring comfort and safety during use. Durability and a lightweight design are also essential factors for competitive shooters.

In the Standard Division, weight considerations are critical, as the total setup must not exceed 5 kg.

For IPSC competitions, where shooting distances range from approximately 50 to 350 yards, an LPVO with 1-6x magnification is often the optimal choice. We’ve discussed about selecting a Continental LPVO at the same power in detail. Check out our blog for more insights (Continental LPVOs, 1-6x, 1-8x, 1-10x, Which One is Right for You?). Other magnification ranges, such as 1-4x, 1-8x, and 1-10x, are also highly effective. However, many competitors find that magnifications beyond 8x are rarely utilized during matches.

Potential Combination of Optics for IPSC

According to IPSC rule, 40% of all targets to be less than 60 meters, 40% to be between 60 and 150 meters; 20% to be between 150 and 300 meters.

Shooters often use a combination of optics to handle varying target distances. A rifle scope serves as the primary optic for mid-to-long-range shooting, while a red dot sight is used for quick target acquisition at close range. For this setup, a 45-degree offset mount is recommended.

For those competing in the Standard Rifle Division, where the total rifle weight must not exceed 5 kg, lightweight red dots are ideal. We recommend models such as the SCRD-43 (18.4g), SCRD-M43 (19g), and SCRD-62 (24g).

In other divisions, where window size may take priority, options like the SCRD-64/ SCRD-SM64, with a window size of 19x28mm, and SCRD-36/ SCRD-M36, with a window size of 22x26mm, offer excellent visibility and performance.