Types of sights

Most rifles and shotguns feature a sight, which is a device that helps a hunter take aim. All sights will need to be adjusted correctly to consistently hit the target with an acceptable degree of accuracy. There are three categories of common sights.

1. Telescopic sight

Consisting of a main tube with lenses to magnify distant objects, it has vertical and horizontal lines that intersect to form crosshairs (used for lining up the centre of a target). This sight is mounted on top of the barrel or action of a firearm.

The telescopic sight is available in fixed powers, and some models have an adjustable ring that you can use to select different powers of magnification. Since it is easy to use, it is a good choice for novice hunters.

2. Aperture or peep sight

Usually mounted at the rear part of the rifle action, an aperture sight has a base and a raised ring. It is adjustable for vertical and horizontal movement.

Aim at a target by mounting the firearm and peering through the peephole of the rear sight, centring the front sight within the circle of the rear peep sight. The front sight can be a metal post with a ball on top or just a metal post. Aperture or peep sights are common on target rifles.

3. Open sight

Featuring a notch or cut at the rear and a single post at the front or muzzle end of the barrel, open sights are common features on rifles and pistols. Many of the newer open sights have the front and rear sight made of fibre optic material of contrasting colours that gather light and are easier to see in low light.