From Guns.com:

Varmint hunting teaches and perfects the basics like stalking, spotting, and firearm safety. Additionally, it’s a great way to put your gear to the test. Got a new budget-friendly scope, like a Redfield Rampage or Konus Konusport, you want to test out? Take it to the field. Getting started with some binoculars? Try those out on some unsuspecting groundhogs. Varmint hunting is an awesome and fun way to work on skills and solidify your gun and gear preferences.