Rifle Scopes Budget tactical scope?

Re: Budget tactical scope?

I guess saving up for a $1500 USOptics is out of the question.

My problem is, if you let me drive a ferari and I have a NEED for it - I'm gonna eat rice and beans for a year so I can buy one..

It is my humble opinion that the Tasco SS is the LEAST qualifying scope capable of shooting past say, 300 yards accurately , but wait - AND CONSISTENTLY...


You go down to Ft Lewis or Puyallup and see what is being shot and it ranges from - Tasco SS Minimum (Someone's always got one) to the high dollar S&B.

If you want to build a hunting rifle with a hunting scope that's great - but are you going to tell your gunsmith "You can only spend $200 to make this accurate" also?


What's the point?

You'd be better off putting that $200 into the rifle for accuracy and shooting with Iron sights for a co uple of years - WHILE YOU HAVE the eyes to do so...

If our forefather soldiers in WW1 and WW2 could shoot at 1k with M1903 Springfields out to 1k - so can you with a bit of practice and training...heck you can almost BUY an M1903 for $200 if you shop around...(Or save a few more bucks).


Point is, as everyone has said, you get what you pay for.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Brandon, If you are worried about not spending a lot of money and getting something to just get you by, be smart and make due with what you have now and wait till you can step up. I tried to do the tactical rifle on the low budget when I was in college and it was more frustrating than it was cool. Speaking from experience: Keep your rifle and scope package till you get out of school. Then save $700 to $1100 for optics. Look for the right deal, a guy that needs some quick cash and be ready to buy it. You will be much happier in the long run.

If you buy a shity scope for $200 or $300 and need to unload it nobody will give you any money for it. Your groups will not be tight and you will be waisting your money on ammo. If you buy the good stuff and make a good deal you will always get your money back out of it or make a little.

I have had several remingtons. winchesters, ar's, m1's and other good stuff but none of it evens comes close to my GAP Crusader and NF. Don't waste your money on cheap stuff, you will truly get what you pay for! Learn from our mistakes
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArcticLight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

My problem is, if you let me drive a ferari and I have a NEED for it -
</div></div>

Thats the point, I have no need for a $1500 set of optics at this time. I will not be shooting 1000yrds every day, no competitions etc. It will be shot most of the time at 200yrds, probably 98% of its life will be at 200 and below. And even then it will be at some exploding targets, water jugs etc.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

I have a TRS-1, mine is an excellent scope. Glass is clear, the adjustments are tactile and audible and seem repeatable. They go for about 3 bills. Another excellent option in the same price bracket is the Nikon buckmaster, but it has very limited adjustment travel.
Why not take a look at the WOTAC? The new Gen 4 is getting good reviews and by all accounts, Matt is a first class guy. Take a look at the wonder optics page.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Brandon, if you don't want to listen to these dudes on here, go to another site and pick up a POS scope to meet your budget. If you want somebody to lie to you to make you feel better about your financial situation, you've come to the wrong forum, Bud. We can't all put USO, S&B, Premier, Nightforce on EVERYTHING we own, BUT if you have a Baby to feed do you want it to eat shit or Ribeyes? The jest of the matter is this: IF you want a good package, plan on spending AT LEAST as much on your optics as the firearm.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

The problem is that you've essentially asked guys who go through various multi-thousand dollar scopes a year on various rifles to help you decide on which piece of shit stinks just a bit less than the rest.

You are not going to find what you want in that price range, and that is what people are trying to tell you. Either save a bit longer (highly recommended, even if only to avoid spending more money buying shitty scopes - a lesson most of us learned the hard way), or simply pick one because in that price range they are all the same.

I would change my wants/needs in this scope and buy the best name brand optic you can afford (Nikon Buckmaster, Bushnell Elite X200). Get your target turrets later.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Hey man,
Much like the A-10 was wings built around a gun, your gun should be around your scope. Took me a while to figure this out. As for your question, I would:
1. go to your local cabelas or gun shop and ask the guys behind the counter if they personally have a used scope that meets your specs.
2. Get on ebay and find a Bushnell 3200 in your price range
3. Best option, get on here or AccurateRelaoding forum and post a Wanted ad with your description.
The guys at Accurate are great and have always helped me a ton. The guys here are a little more harsh, but many have been very helpful to me and I am new to this site. The knowledge for long range shooting on here in second to none, so make a few friends here and you will be happy you did.
Good luck.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

OK guys. A lot of you on here are bashing the $2-300 scopes and being scope snobs does not help anyone. Not everyone can afford the US Optics, S&B, NF, or Premier. I would stear clear of anything under $300 unless its a Nikon. I have the <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-weight: bold">Nikon Buckmaster 6-18x40 mil-dot that is offered by MidwayUSA for $299</span></span> and it has been a great scope. Holds zero, tracks well and it even comes with the tacticool turrets. I also have have a <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-weight: bold">Millett TRS-1 that cost $300 </span></span>that is just as good as the Nikon. But since these are not as expensive as the scopes mentioned above, I guess they belong in the POS catagory. Come on fellas. Get a grip here. You know there are more options for good scopes in the lower price ranges. Stop being snobs.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

maybe not exactly inside your specs, but from one broke-ass college student to another...

P2140046Large.jpg


Bushnell Banner 6-24x40 with a Mildot Reticle and 1/4MOA adjusting (capped) turrets riding in SWFA SS-Tac Low rings on an EGW base. Scope was a birthday present, as were a pair of Leupy rings and a base. The new rings and base were christmas presents.

Cash out of my pocket went towards the rifle and ammo.
The scope was $175 after tax walking out of BassPro.

..works for me..

My advice, use holidays and birthdays to your advantage...
(Yes, my BC flipup cap is MIA. Im working on that.)
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage_Jake</div><div class="ubbcode-body">OK guys. A lot of you on here are bashing the $2-300 scopes and being scope snobs does not help anyone. Not everyone can afford the US Optics, S&B, NF, or Premier. I would stear clear of anything under $300 unless its a Nikon. I have the <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-weight: bold">Nikon Buckmaster 6-18x40 mil-dot that is offered by MidwayUSA for $299</span></span> and it has been a great scope. Holds zero, tracks well and it even comes with the tacticool turrets. I also have have a <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-weight: bold">Millett TRS-1 that cost $300 </span></span>that is just as good as the Nikon. But since these are not as expensive as the scopes mentioned above, I guess they belong in the POS catagory. Come on fellas. Get a grip here. You know there are more options for good scopes in the lower price ranges. Stop being snobs. </div></div>

I was waiting for someone to say that.

I mean, not many people can afford their dream house right out of college, so what do you do, you get a smaller home or apartment till you can. Is the smaller home or apartment a "POS", no, its what you can afford at the time.

I also dont mean this to offend anyone, but some of you must be illiterate. I have said many times A) its not a cash flow problem, I can afford any damn scope I want, and B) I did not title this thread "should I buy a cheap or expensive scope". Yet, I have 90% of the responses to this thread telling me to save and buy an expensive scope. I appreciate the fact that everyone here is trying to help, but *most* of you guys are ignoring the actual question.

I'll be choosing a $200-$300 "POS" scope, and running it while I can. I will buy my Zeiss later along with my big dream house, that I will be able to afford allot sooner because I have chosen to save some damn money instead of blow it on a $2000 optic. Thanks to all that have provided an answer to *my* question.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

You answered your own question in your original post. Why make the thread long and drawn out by arguing? Just buy the scope of your choice, shoot it, be happy with it, and quit bitching on the forum.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Maybe you will fit in better on the Sniper Country Board. Why are you wasting our time and asking our advice? This site is reserved for advanced shooters and those looking to become an advanced shooter.

Don't ask our opinion and then get pissy when we give it to you
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Angel Eyes</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Maybe you will fit in better on the Sniper Country Board. Why are you wasting our time and asking our advice? This site is reserved for advanced shooters and those looking to become an advanced shooter.

Don't ask our opinion and then get pissy when we give it to you </div></div>

You are joking right? Please tell me you are. This site is not "reserved" for advanced shooters. If I'm wrong, please let me know. I would say that 15-20% of the members here are die hard advanced shooters. The rest are just everyday average Joes looking to extend their knowledge of precision shooting, reloading, etc. The OP asked a simple question in which he was bombarded with answers that in no way helped his situation. Now I'm all for buying the best of the best if it can be afforded. But some people just cant run out and buy a Ferrari, Lambo, Maserati. Instead they settle for the Camaros and Mustangs. Which is fine. The quality may be hit or miss but thats just the risk you take. Same with firearms, scopes, and so on.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

I would say that every one wants to "advance" their skills. If you don't care about learning from others and adding what you have already learned then it seems like whatever you do is a wast of time. If you are a shooter and spend your free time looking at this forum then you must be interested in advancing your knowledge and ability.

The point was not to get upset when asking for opinions and they are not what you want to hear.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Angel Eyes</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Maybe you will fit in better on the Sniper Country Board. Why are you wasting our time and asking our advice? This site is reserved for advanced shooters and those looking to become an advanced shooter.</div></div>
I don't think this is the case; I believe the amount of hard-core shooters, competitors and actual operators is a relatively small percentage. This site has members numbering in the thousands.



<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Angel</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Don't ask our opinion and then get pissy when we give it to you </div></div>
Brandon is doing this. Some of those hard-core shooters, competitors and actual operators are offering sound advice and Brandon acts as if he's giving an economics lesson...to people on a shooting site. The advice you're getting Brandon is from people that have been to war, are still active peace officers, military operators, former marksman and competitors, and you seem to enjoy telling us all how well you save money and how we’re scope snobs yada yada yada...all laced with profanity. I've instructed firearms training for a regional academy in Texas; to connect with adults one thing you must do to give them credit for their experiences. If you want to give a lesson in economics you should avoid shooting sites where the common sentiment is buy the best and cry once.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Thanks Magnumdood

On the "advanced shooter" point, I was just trying to say that he should'nt ask advice and then get pissy. I think any one who has a gun that can group half MOA at 100 or better is a serious shooter. There seem to be many of us on the board but I could'nt guess percentages. I consider myself a serious shooter and I am still really enjoying the wealth of info in this forum. Like I said, we all need to continue to try and better our skills (not trying to get all deep and stuff here)
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Angel Eyes,

I believe we are on the same page. I've got a new rifle that will shoot 1/2 MOA, but I haven't gotten into the competitions...yet. I've bought and sold more pistols, rifles, shotguns and scopes than some small dealers. It's my hobby...a serious hobby that I enjoy immensely.

I couldn’t agree with you more about the accumulated knowledge on this site, if one will but listen (read) instead of trying to up your post count. (This is not a criticism aimed at you by any means). There are two young posters on this thread that seem to think they were the only ones who had to work through college. I'm 50 and will finally complete my PhD next year. I'm on the 30-year plan; I had to take a break in degrees to work and care for my family. I'm absolutely certain that there are literally hundreds if not thousands of shooters, on this site alone, that pursued their hobby while working, going to school and raising a family. I'm not special; I need the degree to get a job thanks to obama.

Jake and Brandon,

You aren't unique or special because you're in school and are having to count pennies to make it. I think you are unique and special to me because you are shooters, and it gladdens my heart to see young people keeping the torch lit. Just remember, there are others who have gone before you who possess an immense wealth of knowledge regarding the shooting sports. If you would but tap into this knowledge stream, get to know a few of the obvious operators, and they can teach you more remotely in a month than you could learn on your own in 10 years.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Angel Eyes</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Maybe you will fit in better on the Sniper Country Board. Why are you wasting our time and asking our advice? This site is reserved for advanced shooters and those looking to become an advanced shooter.

Don't ask our opinion and then get pissy when we give it to you </div></div>
I love this, some guy with 15 posts is calling the shots. Sorry but what a dumb ass. I think he would fit in better at ARFCOM this sight is reserved for everyone but him.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Hey,

I am not counting pennies by any means. I am simply saying answer the guys question. If you know of a good budget scope, then let the guy know. Dont come in and start telling him to purchase shit that is way out of the price range listed. Help someone out. Not frustrate them.

I myself could easily work a weekend and gain as much overtime as I can get so that I can buy a high end scope, rifle, etc. But I dont. I am quite happy with a good mid range scope. I have tried the budget stuff and I found out the hard way not to cheap out.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

He <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">was</span></span> given the answer, several times. <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">He chose to argue </span></span>with those who suggested other, more expensive scopes.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Magnumdood</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Angel Eyes,

I believe we are on the same page. I've got a new rifle that will shoot 1/2 MOA, but I haven't gotten into the competitions...yet. I've bought and sold more pistols, rifles, shotguns and scopes than some small dealers. It's my hobby...a serious hobby that I enjoy immensely.

I couldn’t agree with you more about the accumulated knowledge on this site, if one will but listen (read) instead of trying to up your post count. (This is not a criticism aimed at you by any means). There are two young posters on this thread that seem to think they were the only ones who had to work through college. I'm 50 and will finally complete my PhD next year. I'm on the 30-year plan; I had to take a break in degrees to work and care for my family. I'm absolutely certain that there are literally hundreds if not thousands of shooters, on this site alone, that pursued their hobby while working, going to school and raising a family. I'm not special; I need the degree to get a job thanks to obama.

Jake and Brandon,

You aren't unique or special because you're in school and are having to count pennies to make it. I think you are unique and special to me because you are shooters, and it gladdens my heart to see young people keeping the torch lit. Just remember, there are others who have gone before you who possess an immense wealth of knowledge regarding the shooting sports. If you would but tap into this knowledge stream, get to know a few of the obvious operators, and they can teach you more remotely in a month than you could learn on your own in 10 years.
</div></div>

I agree with what you said and I am not discounting anyone's experience. I respect any elder or anyone with more experience than I. Also, I am the first to call out some snot ass kid that crys and bitches, I am growing up with that generation and I do not like what I see. However, I did ask a specific question that deserved a very specific answer and tried to make that clear several times. I am not bitching or getting pissy, and to the people that said that I am, you may need to re-evaluate your position on being an asshole. Like I said, I asked a specific question to which I was hoping to gain knowledge from more experienced people that may have used some budget scopes in the past. I did not ask the question to get bombarded with people calling me pissy or bitchy, or telling me how to save my money as if I am poor.

As always, I appreciate everyones help and willingness to see someone succeed in keeping this sport alive and to become a good shooter. I however think that some of you have shown your true colors by being hard-headed and ignorant to the question that I posted.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Magnumdood</div><div class="ubbcode-body">He <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">was</span></span> given the answer, several times. <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">He chose to argue </span></span>with those who suggested other, more expensive scopes. </div></div>

I was given answers to a question that I did not ask. I am also not arguing against a more expensive scope, I am and have been trying to state that a more expensive scope is not in my future and I would appreciate opinions on a *budget* scope.

I am sorry if you didnt catch my point.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage_Jake</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Brandon...Go get a Nikon Buckmaster or a Millett TRS-1. You wont be disappointed. You are not going to get anywhere here. That is obvious. </div></div>

Nikon yes, I like my monarch. in fact I'll sell you this one for 300 bucks. The knobs are tactilike under the covers... http://swfa.com/Nikon-3-12x42-Monarch-Riflescope-P42331.aspx

Millet NO, I tried one and the eye releif is ridiculous. You can use one on the bench fine but in the field using compromising prone positions on rocks and such, I found the scope to be a WORTHLESS POS. I used it on the bench a number of times and thought wow what a great scope for the money then I used it <span style="font-weight: bold">ONE</span> time in the field and came home and sold it that day..
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Brandon21</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I am not bitching or getting pissy, and to the people that said that I am, you may need to re-evaluate your position on being an asshole.
</div></div>
You’ve done a bang-up job of very firmly and convincingly establishing you’re an asshole. I hope you don’t represent yourself as you have on this thread while engaged in shooting activities. Shooters have a hard enough time keeping a positive public image without people like you alienating those who are undecided regarding the shooting sports.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Brandon21</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Magnumdood</div><div class="ubbcode-body">He <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">was</span></span> given the answer, several times. <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">He chose to argue </span></span>with those who suggested other, more expensive scopes. </div></div>

I was given answers to a question that I did not ask. I am also not arguing against a more expensive scope, I am and have been trying to state that a more expensive scope is not in my future and I would appreciate opinions on a *budget* scope.

I am sorry if you didnt catch my point. </div></div>

 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: shankster</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Brandon21</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Magnumdood</div><div class="ubbcode-body">He <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">was</span></span> given the answer, several times. <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">He chose to argue </span></span>with those who suggested other, more expensive scopes. </div></div>

I was given answers to a question that I did not ask. I am also not arguing against a more expensive scope, I am and have been trying to state that a more expensive scope is not in my future and I would appreciate opinions on a *budget* scope.

I am sorry if you didnt catch my point. </div></div>

</div></div>



.......lol....all the fuckin brain damage.....and the musings of the un-washed.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

I'm still holding strong that you need to check your investment rates. Depending on how you have them, it may not be worth it to have them and you could actually be BETTER off to buy a great scope

In the mean time read more type less.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

um i have a Counter Sniper 4-16 here that i will give you. It has some problems though, turrets are completely stripped, and spin freely, the elevation knob comes out whenever it feels like, its stuck on 4x wont move, but it holds its POA/POI very well (although i have absolutely no fuckin idea where thats at)but seriously dude, you have been given great advice here. I tell you this about the Counter Sniper because thats what happens to CHEAP SHIT when it comes to this game...so take that how you see fit. You arent making any friends around here, and im not saying that you need the most expensive scope out there, but saving a little bit of money will help you in the long run. But what do i know, im just a lowly Marine that probably makes far less than you do a year, but somehow i listened to advice on here and you know what, i dont have to worry about my shit breaking and spending more money to fix it.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?

Hey Deadly, I'll take that CS off your hands. I need something for target practice. It probably would work better after being shot a few times.

Oh, and new guys. I've learned my lession. Don't answer question from new guys witha serious answer and expect them to maybe listen to the exact answers that they needed to hear. I'm thinking you need iron sights.
 
Re: Budget tactical scope?


[/quote]
You’ve done a bang-up job of very firmly and convincingly establishing you’re an asshole. [/quote]

As have you. I cant believe people in this thread are reading my posts and catching asshole, pissy or btichy. If you asked a question on my detailing forum about what is the best car wax to use that is the cheapest, I would point out a good cheap wax. Even though I may know that some Zymol at $100 a tub would be better, but you did not state you wanted expensive wax.

If you guys see asshole, maybe you need to re-read your own damn posts. I am a member of tons of forums, but this is the first time *I* have been called an asshole for asking a simple question, and then trying to clarify several times.