Rifle Scopes 15x for long range

[J_Roger]

Hey all, simple question for ya. I have searched but I can't get a clear answer, as most of the threads I found were scope specific ( this scope over that scope). My question is this, everything else equal, like internal adjustment and the round being used, is 15x enough mag to get to 1200 yards? I would think it would be, but I would hate to get to a competition and find myself needing that extra 5x on the top end with a 20x or so. Thoughts? Thanks, Taylor.

 

[GlockandRoll]

Re: 15x for long range

I've got a Leupy 6.5-20 and 4.5-14, and I rarely find myself shooting the 20x at full power at 1000 yards. I prefer the image better around 13-14x or so.

 

[Disturbed]

Re: 15x for long range

I have observed from the limited amount of shooting I have done is the higher your magnification is set the more mirage you will be dealing with.

 

[Rob01]

Re: 15x for long range

Depends on the size of the targets you are shooting at but for that distance 15x will work on MOA or larger sized targets.

 

[dcskater602]

Re: 15x for long range

yes, more than likely

 

[chaser_2332]

Re: 15x for long range

I agree with rob at MOA targets you will be fine, I took a 12x out to 1500yds at MOA size steel.

 

[Pointman308]

Re: 15x for long range

Didnt some of Carlos Hathcock's longest shots get made with an 8x scope with a one inch tube?

 

[mwroseberry]

Re: 15x for long range

I had no problems engaging a 12"x12" plate at 1 mile with a 16xSS There is no reason you can't use a 15x. I'm going to attempt to engage the same target with a USO ST-10 with only 10x. I've seen a guy shoot a premier to 2400yards with only using 14x of his total magnification so I know it can be done with high enough quality optics.

Good luck,
Merritt

 

[Bedlam]

Re: 15x for long range

I know what MOA is, but what is an "MOA size" target?

 

[Longshot38]

Re: 15x for long range

15x is plenty. Especially for MOA sized targets, in other words the target size is equal to 1 MOA, now if you are wanting to compete is F-class that is a different story.

 

[Barfly]

Re: 15x for long range

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Bedlam</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I know what MOA is, but what is an "MOA size" target?
</div></div>

Depends on distance. In OP's case, 1 MOA at 1200 yards = 12"

 

[dpreston]

Re: 15x for long range

15x is enough to get the job done. But I'm a magnification whore and love all I can get. for a 1200 yard target in competition, I would more than likely be on 25x.... but its not necessary

 

[CSTactical]

Re: 15x for long range

All my Long-Range 308s have scopes under 17x and my 260 have 20x to 25x. The 260 have more power because they have the capability to hit a lot smaller targets. I choose the power based on the type of shooting and how well it matches the rounds capability.

Mike @ CST

 

[cp3head]

Re: 15x for long range

Fifteen power is more than adequate unless as previously stated you are shooting f-class. (I recently had this same question and ended up going with a 15 power top end magnification. I don't regret it.)

 

[J_Roger]

Re: 15x for long range

Thanks all, now if I can just decide between the weaver tactical and the pst I would be happy, but that's a topic for another thread.

 

[7mmRM]

Re: 15x for long range

15x is fine, even for sub MOA targets. Ive repeatedly tagged a 5" or 7" plate @ 1K at at a buddies range with at 15X NXS F1

 

[Jeffvn]

Re: 15x for long range

15X is fine for long range. My 338LM has a 20 MOA base, but needs a 35 MOA base. In the mean time I have to hold over a ton when shooting at or beyond 1,500 yards. In doing so, I always dial down the magnification on the scope to right at 15X. At 15X I have no difficulty seeing ann holding center on an 18x24 silhouette at 1,800 yards.

Jeffvn

 

[TenZero]

Re: 15x for long range

I looked at both side by side, and of the two, I thought the Weaver was nicer quality, and easier on the eyes to look through. It is substantially heavier, though, if that matters to you.

 

[flyrodder]

Re: 15x for long range

My experience has been that optical quality or clarity plays a major role. I can see as well or better with good glass at 14X than I can with cheap glass at 18X.