The 4×32 is the magnification and objective lens of a rifle scope. So the ‘4x’ is magnification and ’32’ is the diameter of your objective lens.
Still confused on what a “4×32” scope means? No worries – let me explain…
The “4” in “4×32”
Simply put, the “4” is the magnification power of the scope. If the magnification is 4x, it means your target will be magnified 4 times larger than what the naked eye sees.
The singular “4” also indicates that this scope has a fixed magnification. This means that you can’t zoom in and out with this scope. Your target will always appear four times larger than what you see in real life.
“4” is a relatively low magnification. One of the benefits of having a low magnification is that you get to keep a larger field of view.
The meaning of “32”
The “32” is the diameter of the objective lens. It is measured in millimeters. So, in this instance, the objective lens measures 32mm in diameter.
If you’re unsure what the objective lens is: It’s the lens on a scope that faces your target, furthest away from your eye.
Generally, the larger the objective lens diameter, the more light that can get into the scope, and therefore, the more variability you will have with the scope.
Think of this similarly to how you would look at a camera lens. The more light your camera lens can let in, the darker it can be outside when you can take the picture. It’s pretty much the same with scope lenses. The larger the diameter, the more light your lens can let in. This allows you to use your scope in low-light situations.
32mm scopes are very popular because they work in versatile lighting conditions, and they typically provide a clear image for the marksman.
Conclusion
The numbers in the name of a scope indicate both the magnification of the scope and the objective lens diameter. They are not the only things to consider when purchasing a scope, but they are certainly vital pieces of information. Knowing how to interpret these pieces of information is vital because they will help you shop more efficiently, and ultimately help you choose the right scope for your firearm.
If, after reading this, you need to take a step back and learn more about the basics of scopes, please take a look at this article. It explains literally everything you need to know.
FAQ’s
A 4×32 scope is a great option for long-range shooting. It can get you critical hits at very critical distances. You will be able to keep your distance from the target and will get multiple hits on a target at long range. If you shoot AR-15s and are looking for a fixed scope, you may want to give A2 sights a try. They are way less expensive, and traditionally very durable.
The 4×32 scope is an average price. This will depend upon the brand and model of the scope. However, it will be mid-range to high-range in price. A lot of times, you can find them for sale at around $200 to $300. This is because there are many good models for this range and price range.
A 4×32 scope is a fixed zoom scope. This means you cannot adjust the power on this scope. You get one magnification and that’s it. It also means that you must choose your target carefully, as the range is limited to what the scope can give you. These are unlike variable scopes, which allow you to adjust the magnification higher or lower. They are also unlike red dot sights, which use lasers to spot the target.
It depends on what you plan to use the scope for. The 4×32 scope is a great choice for long-range shooting and precision shooting. The 3-9×40 is a good choice for general shooting and hunting. This will be more than enough magnification for most shots at medium to long-range; however, it will lack the precision of the 4x scope when compared to other scopes.
Very informative and well explained – Thanks
How many MO A count is on a cheap 4×42 scope. It’s new but out of sero and left to right just keeps turning altitude spots but l ti right does not not . Trie aligning the echo lines with a mirror but can’t see any different in lens to do so
Good explanation
Thanks
Know I now Thank you.
You have the last part backwards. The 4×32 is good for target shooting and hunting. The 3x9x40 scope is a great choice for long-range shooting and precision shooting, and because of that the 3x9x40 is one of the most popular style of scopes for hunting.
Very informative, to the point. Thank you.
After reading your explanations it is a lot easier to understand. I’m realizing that I haven’t utilized any decent scope I’ve ever used. Lots to learn.
I purchased a long eye relief scope for my Mauser, is a 2x7x32 scope ,duplex acceptable for 200 yards ?