Field of View

Field of View must be the picture presented by a scope to the shooter at specific magnifications. Its diameter is typically measured in feet. For example, a 20x power scope, with a field of view of 5.5 feet will get an extremely detailed picture of the target area at 100 yards, but you won't be able to see much to the sides of the target. This is no biggy when the target area is fixed, but can be a problem if you can't find your target, or when the target is moving.

Bushnell scope experts think a variable power scope of approximately 3-9x magnification is ideal for general hunting. (32 feet, low power; 14 feet, high power at 100 yards).