Scope

Template:Weapon Part Infobox

Scopes are weapon attachments in Destiny 2 that modify the zoom magnification and aiming characteristics when aiming down sights (ADS). Primarily found on long-range weapons like Sniper Rifles and Scout Rifles, scopes significantly impact weapon performance and effective range.

Overview

Scopes are complex weapon attachments that affect multiple aspects of weapon performance beyond simple magnification. They influence the field of view, recoil patterns, target acquisition, and effective range of weapons. The scope system has evolved from Destiny 1's multiple selectable options to a more streamlined approach in Destiny 2.

Zoom Mechanics

Zoom Values

• Expressed as multiplier (e.g., 2.0x)
• Base value of 10 = 1.0x magnification
• Value of 20 = 2.0x magnification
• Calculated as: Base Zoom + Scope Modifier

Zoom by Weapon Type

Typical base zoom values:

• Sniper Rifles: 35-50+
• Scout Rifles: 20-22
• Pulse Rifles: 17-19
• Auto Rifles: 16
• Hand Cannons: 14
• SMGs: 13-15
• Sidearms: 12

Scope Effects

Primary Effects

• Magnification: Visual zoom increase
• Field of View: Narrowed perspective
• Recoil Reduction: Higher zoom = less angular recoil
• Range Extension: Improved damage falloff

Secondary Effects

• Handling: Often reduced with high zoom
• ADS Speed: Affected by scope weight
• Target Acquisition: Aim assistance modifications
• Peripheral Vision: Limited by zoom level

Scope Categories

Short-Range Scopes

Characteristics

• Low zoom (10-15 added)
• Wide field of view
• Fast handling
• Close to mid-range optimal

Common Types

• Red Dot sights
• Holographic sights
• Iron sights
• Reflex sights

Medium-Range Scopes

Characteristics

• Moderate zoom (16-25 added)
• Balanced performance
• Versatile engagement range
• Standard on most primaries

Applications

• Scout Rifles
• Pulse Rifles
• Some Auto Rifles

Long-Range Scopes

Characteristics

• High zoom (30-50+ added)
• Narrow field of view
• Maximum range benefits
• Slower handling

Primary Users

• Sniper Rifles
• Linear Fusion Rifles
• Some Scout Rifles

Design Philosophy

Power vs. FOV Balance

• Higher damage = Higher zoom requirement
• Prevents easy close-range sniping
• Encourages weapon role adherence
• Balances PvP engagement distances

Simplification from D1

• Multiple selectable scopes removed
• Players always chose lowest zoom
• Streamlined to single optimal scope
• Some weapons retain options

Notable Scope Perks

Sniper Rifle Scopes

Low Zoom Options (~35-40)

• Faster ADS speed
• Better close-range viability
• Highly sought in PvP
• Examples: Ambush SLH25, Shortgaze SLH10

High Zoom Options (~45-50+)

• Maximum range effectiveness
• Better for PvE content
• Lane control in PvP
• Examples: Tacsys SLS15, Eagle Eye SLR20

Scout Rifle Sights

• Typically 20-30 zoom range
• Balance between range and versatility
• Some with highlighting features
• Variable zoom rare

Zoom Impact on Gameplay

PvP Considerations

Low Zoom Advantages

• Easier tracking
• Better situational awareness
• Aggressive positioning viable
• Dueling potential

High Zoom Advantages

• Lane control dominance
• First shot advantage
• Long-range picks
• Map control

PvE Applications

• High zoom preferred generally
• Boss damage phases
• Long-range add clear
• Less mobility concern

Historical Context

Destiny 1 Systems

• 3 selectable scopes per weapon
• Each with different stats
• Player choice important
• Meta heavily favored low zoom

Notable D1 Examples

• Hereafter: Exotic with variable zoom
• Queenbreaker's Bow: Toggle between scopes
• Generally underused features

Current Meta Considerations

Desired Traits

• Lowest possible zoom for weapon type
• Minimal handling penalties
• Clean sight picture
• Snapshot Sights synergy

Popular Scope Choices

• PvP: Lowest zoom available
• PvE: Balanced or high zoom
• Versatility: Medium zoom options

Technical Details

Zoom Calculation

``` Total Zoom = Base Weapon Zoom + Scope Modifier Effective Magnification = Total Zoom / 10 ```

Recoil Relationship

• Angular recoil inversely proportional to zoom
• Visual recoil remains constant
• Actual deviation reduced at range

Community Resources

• Destiny Scopes website
• Database comparisons
• Video guides
• Zoom value spreadsheets

Tips for Scope Selection

General Guidelines

• Consider engagement distances
• Match scope to playstyle
• Account for map design
• Balance zoom with handling

Activity-Specific

• Crucible: Prioritize low zoom
• Gambit: Versatile medium zoom
• Raids: High zoom for DPS
• Patrols: Personal preference

Future Considerations

• Community requests adjustable zoom
• Bungie resistant due to balance
• Possible exotic perks
• Scope customization unlikely

See Also

• Zoom
• Weapon Stats
• Sniper Rifles
• Scout Rifles
• Sights and Barrels
• Range

References

• D2 Wiki - Zoom
• Destiny Scopes Database
• D2 Wiki - Sights and Barrels
• Bungie.net - Adjustable Zoom Discussion
• D1 Wiki - Weapon Sights