tähtäystin

Tähtäystin is a Finnish term that designates a sighting instrument used to align the shooter's line of sight with a target. The term is generic in scope and does not refer to a single model or proprietary device; rather, it can describe any device that assists aiming across disciplines such as firearms, archery, surveying, or astronomy, depending on context.

The word is formed from tähtäys (aiming or targeting) and the suffix -tin, which in Finnish forms nouns denoting a tool or instrument. In Finnish-language technical literature, tähtäystin may appear as a descriptive label rather than a brand name.

A typical tähtäystin consists of a sighting point or reticle, a means to align the sight with the target, and a mounting or adjustment system. Common variants include iron sights (front and rear), telescopic sights or scopes, red-dot sights, and holographic sights. Key considerations when using a tähtäystin are alignment, parallax, magnification, field of view, and the stability of the mounting platform.

Historically, sighting devices evolved from simple iron sights used in early firearms to complex optical systems in the modern era. In surveying, similar aiming instruments provided precise angular measurements. In astronomy, sighting tubes or guides were used to align instruments with celestial targets.

See also: rifle scope, iron sight, red-dot sight, holographic sight, surveying instrument.