What power range for pistol scope?

[jcsabolt2]

I am wanting to get a variable power pistol scope for my TC Encore.  Currently I have a 44 Mag barrel.  I am undesided between a 1.25-4x, 2-6x, 2-7x, 2.5-8x, and the 3-12x.

I have been looking at TC Scopes, Leupold, Burris, and Bushnell 3200 series of scopes.  Whatever brand I choose has to have a lifetime warranty and clear optics.

I doubt I would use the pistol in it's current configuration over a 100 yard range.  The largest game where I live is Whitetail deer.  However, I love to varmint hunt too.

What's your advice?

[jhalcott]

Any of the scopes you mentioned are good. I would go with a 2x7 0r 2.5x8 since you included varmints in your planned usage. A straight 4x is OK ,but smaller critters usually need more magification. I saw guys shoot bowling pins at 200 meters with iron sights when I was into SILLYWETS. A varmint rarely sits still that long and isn't always in bright light.
  I could NEVER get that level of accuracy from MY revolvers! Your Encore should prove to be most accurate.
  jh

[singleshot]

I agree, the 2-6 or 2-7 variable scopes seem to work best for me.  I have used the higher powers out to 200-300 yards on prairie dog with good results from encore and contender.  Many times I need the lower powers to find the target before going to the high power for the shot.   If shooting 100 yds and under the scopes upto 4x are usually adequate.  Further than that you may need a little more power.  I use a 3-12 burris for longer range shooting on prairie dog and it is great, but I don't think you would need that much power for what you are wanting it for.  TC, burris, bushnell all are adequate scopes in the above power.      Ed

[BCB]

jcsabolt2,

For the 44 Magnum, the 2x-7x will do fine.  I have a Burris 2x-7x on a SRH and it works very well out to 150 yards at my shooting bench.  I suspect it would do the same on the Contender.  Good-luck...BCB