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Seven Optics Accessories That Can Improve Your Shooting Setup
A good scope or thermal optic can make a considerable difference to a shooting setup, but the optic itself is only one part of the complete system.
The mounts, rail, power supply and protective accessories all affect how securely the equipment fits and how practical it is to use. A poorly matched mount can cause problems even with an expensive scope, while something as simple as a spare battery can prevent a digital optic becoming unusable halfway through a session.
Here are seven accessories worth considering when setting up hawke optics for an air rifle, air pistol or rifle.
1. Correct Scope Mounts
Scope mounts connect the optic to the rifle, so compatibility and quality matter.
The mounts must suit the diameter of the scope tube and the type of rail fitted to the rifle. Common rail systems include traditional airgun dovetails and Weaver or Picatinny rails.
Mount height is equally important. Low mounts may not provide enough clearance for a large objective lens, while unnecessarily high mounts can make it difficult to achieve a natural and repeatable head position.
Some spring-powered air rifles can also place unusual demands on scopes and mounts due to their recoil characteristics. Secure, correctly fitted mounts help the optic retain its position and zero.
2. Rail Adaptors
A rail adaptor can expand the range of compatible optics and accessories.
For example, an adaptor may allow equipment designed for a Weaver or Picatinny fitting to be used on a rifle with a dovetail rail. This can be particularly useful when upgrading from a traditional telescopic sight to digital night vision or another modern optic.
Compatibility should always be checked carefully. The adaptor, rifle rail, mount and optic must all work together without obstructing loading, controls or comfortable eye position.
Solware offers scope accessories and rail kits intended to provide greater flexibility when fitting modern optics.
3. A Laser Rangefinder
Knowing the correct distance can be valuable when using an air rifle because pellet trajectory changes noticeably across typical shooting ranges.
A laser rangefinder removes much of the guesswork by providing a measured distance to the selected point. It can also be useful for target shooting, land management and general outdoor observation.
Some modern thermal and digital optics include a built-in laser rangefinder. Others can work with a separate rangefinding accessory, while a compact handheld model can be shared across several different shooting setups.
The best choice depends on whether you value an all-in-one device or prefer the flexibility of separate equipment.
4. Lens Protection
Scopes and thermal products are designed for outdoor use, but their lenses still deserve protection.
Lens caps help keep dust, rain and dirt away from the glass when the optic is being carried or stored. Flip-up caps are particularly convenient because they can remain attached during use.
A proper lens cloth, brush and suitable cleaning solution can also help protect delicate coatings. Wiping a lens with a sleeve or ordinary cloth may drag grit across the surface and cause scratches.
For higher-value thermal monoculars and digital optics, a padded case offers additional protection during transport.
5. Spare Batteries and Power Accessories
Traditional scopes may only need a small battery for an illuminated reticle, but thermal and night-vision devices rely entirely on electrical power.
Actual battery life can vary according to temperature, screen brightness, recording functions and wireless connectivity. Carrying a charged spare battery or compatible external power supply can therefore be extremely useful.
Before purchasing spares, check the exact battery type recommended by the manufacturer. Using unsuitable batteries or chargers may affect performance and could damage the equipment.
6. An Infrared Illuminator
Many digital night-vision devices can benefit from an infrared illuminator.
The right illuminator can improve image quality and viewing distance when there is very little natural light. Adjustable power and beam focus allow the user to match the illumination to the environment rather than flooding a nearby object with excessive infrared light.
Thermal monoculars do not require infrared illumination because they detect heat. An illuminator is therefore relevant to night vision, not thermal imaging.
7. A Stable Rest or Support
Greater magnification makes small movements far more noticeable.
A stable shooting rest, bipod or suitable support can help the user maintain a consistent position when target shooting. It can also make setting up and zeroing a new scope easier because unwanted movement is reduced.
The support should suit the rifle and shooting position without interfering with the controls or balance. Air pistols may require a different solution from full-length air rifles or other rifles.
Build the Setup as One System
The best optics setup is not necessarily the one containing the greatest number of accessories.
Every component should have a clear purpose and work correctly with the rifle, air pistol or optic concerned. Before ordering, check the rail type, mount size, scope-tube diameter, required clearance and power requirements.
Solware supplies telescopic sights, infiray thermal, thermal monoculars, night vision, mounts, rangefinders and accessories for air rifles, air pistols and rifles. Its current optics department includes products for different budgets and applications, with assistance available when a particular item is not listed online.
Browse the range at https://www.solware.co.uk/, call 01827 215222 or email sales@solware.co.uk for advice on choosing compatible optics and accessories.