scopes

I want to get a scope for my handgun (44 mag) and would like to know what power may be best, 2x, 4x, or variable. Thanks

Everyone will have an opinion, but I would suggest a 2-6 or so varible! I am a fan of varibles as they can be used to get the most accurate shot for the conditions. Course this is just one of many opinions!

A lot depends on your eyes. I have a 4x on my hunting handgun that works real well. I had a variable but swapped it for the 4x. When it was turned up to 7x it was hard to get it on the target rapidly. I have another handgun with a 2x and it is a little hard to see any great distance but it works OK. I guess what i am saying is I like a 4x the best.

If you're hunting deer and other larger game, I'd go with a Burris 2X. Otherwise, go for a variable with a low end of 2X.

I'm no fan of scopes on pistols, finding that they unbalance true one hand guns and bulk them up in such a way as to make carrying it in, and presenting it quickly from, a holster a real chore. In my experience unless one shoots accommodate one, hitting quickly with a scoped handgun is hard and only gets harder the higher the magnification. This effect bothered me least when using no magnification red dot sights, but was a nuisance at 2x. I did my 'research' before variables were introduced, but the principles involved still weigh in against higher powers, at least in my hands. I have limited experience with variables of any sort, and my mild fear of their reliability is accentuated by the snappy recoil offered by serious hunting handguns. So, while I have experimented with the dots and low power scopes my hunting handguns no longer wear them. If you must have a scope on a .44 Magnum I recommend you try a better brand of red dot sight, or, if you are apprehensive about batteries and battery caps, a 2x Leupold. Better still would be trying someone else's before you spend your hard earned cash on your own. $0.04 Good hunting! Michael