Parallax or Side Focus Importance

[joeinaz]

Was looking at the Swarovski Z3 with the ballistic turret as an option. This scope does not have a side focus or parallax adjustment. How important is this feature if shots are 500 yards or less?

[azgutpile]

I would not get a long range scope without it.

Issues could start showing up after 400 to 500 yard range.

[Coues 'n' Sheep]

I have ranged elk effectively with the parallax adjustment beyond 400 yds.... it is an important and necessary feature and at times just plain handy, Hahahaha...

[GreyGhost85]

I agree, in my opinion, very important for shots over 300 or so.Do you know how to check to verify parallax is eliminated once you have a scope with parallax adjustment? Just wondering if you have never used a scope with parallax adjustment, how much it matters at longer shots.

Please expand Sensei!

[Titanium700]

Can't live without it.

Always playing with it on my Mark 4's

[rcdinaz]

very good explanation... I would have just given the head moving exercise, this has much more detail.

 

If is funny that this is one thing I did not spend much time on with my girls but on the rifle they have been shooting most they have said "it looks funny", caught me forgetting that last final step.

[duckhunter175]

Great explanation! Thoughts or preferences? I've seen the AO style scopes then side focus... Just shooter preference? I see now that Kahles is putting it on top under the elevation???

[trphyhntr]

no wonder i cant hit anything

[Chef]

A great analogy for describing parallax is:

 

Imagine riding in the passengers seat and looking over at the speedometer cluster. The reading you see is different than that of the drivers. Even though you are going th same rate of speed. Parallax.

[n2horns]

Like all stated, use it if you have it on the scope. It is there for a reason. Good explanation all.

[Tdub]

I was worried about the parallax adjustment because at first I would forget to adjust it. I came across this video which helped me to better understand what it does. Seems to go along with what Lance is saying.

 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6ziKTDIMCig