What does a telescopic sight (or scope) do?

A telescopic sight, commonly known as a scope, is designed primarily to enhance the shooter’s ability to see distant targets more clearly by magnifying the image of the target. It gathers light through its lenses, which helps to amplify the details of what is being viewed, thereby allowing the shooter to focus on the target with greater precision. This increased clarity plays a significant role in improving accuracy, especially at longer distances.

The other options, while they may refer to features or benefits associated with firearms, do not accurately describe the specific function of a telescopic sight. For example, while a scope can assist in aiming accurately, it does so through magnification, not by simply increasing accuracy without any magnification. Additionally, a scope does not contribute to the balance of the firearm or reduce recoil, as its primary purpose is to facilitate a clearer, magnified view of the target.