Rifle Scopes Cheap rifle scope on nice gun?

[Enigma2y0u]

I just got a .308 back from a gunsmith that put a new barrel on it, bedded, trued, etc. This is my first 'precision' type rifle. I don't have a scope to put on it. I also do not have a range finder. I was guessing the other day with hold overs with my hunting rifles and come to find out I can't guess ranges that well.

My budget is around $1,200.

I originally had my heart set on a Razor, but I am also on a new lower budget for the year. The shooting range is 800 yards. and the 800 yard target is steel plate and slightly uphill.

I am thinking at this point I would be better off with something like a SWFA SS 16x42 and a cheaper EGW mount putting me at about $500. Then I could spend the rest on a decent range finder?

Then I can at least go shoot it.?.. Any comments?

 

[TOPGuN050]

to be honest, I would go without a range finder for now and buy a vortex viper PST either the 4-16 or 6-24 ffp. possibly learn how to range targets with your reticle. I did without a rangefinder for a good while and didn't have many issues.

also, from time to time you can find a nice PST on here used for a rather good price over the new ones.

 

[Irokcrawl]

Or the variable mag SS, Vortex viper pst are all great low cost options that work. Being on a 308 they will do fine. You also could probably find a used HDMR for 1200 or so.. Use the reticel to range with. You will need practice with that anyways. Having a range finder is nice to verify that but start with small things that you know like wheels on a car/truck, street signs, street lights etc.. My range finder rarely comes out to be honest...

 

[TOPGuN050]

Or the variable mag SS, Vortex viper pst are all great low cost options that work. Being on a 308 they will do fine. You also could probably find a used HDMR for 1200 or so.. Use the reticel to range with. You will need practice with that anyways. Having a range finder is nice to verify that but start with small things that you know like wheels on a car/truck, street signs, street lights etc.. My range finder rarely comes out to be honest...

as Irok said his rangefinder rarely comes out. I have a bushy 1300 ARC that I picked up awhile ago and the only time it comes out of the pack is when there is an argument as to how far a target actually is...

 

[roggom]

$1200, used Nightforce or Razor (if possible), if you will be setting up steel, you can get away with a cheapest LRF you can find. Instead of ranging the steel, walk out and set up then range back to your vehicle. A good LRF will run you at least $400, a cheapo one maybe $40 used. In the grand scheme of things, i would invest in the best scope you can find and then Ballistic AE or mildot master and spend this summer ranging.

Each hunting season, I usually pick up a Leica and then sell it right after, considering the warranty is only good for two years, this gives me current warranty item each year. I have kept a cheapo Simmons LRF600 for setting up steel, it is not high speed and useless for soft targets, but using the "range back to vehicle" trick works for me.

 

[6xcKY]

Spend the cash on glass, not a range finder. I went for a LONG time without a LRF, I would use my mildots and my ImpactDataBooks range estimation sheets for figure out distances. Only thing you need to know if the size of your target. Thats it. Good practice for any shooter in my opinion.

 

[runningun6mm]

I have a Bushnell 1500 elite range finder $400, and my scope wears a $1300 price tag. You can hit what you can't see. If you can't accurately dial or hold over your choice you can't hit. If you scope has good glass you can always mil the target and get your range.

 

[yoda1988]

Are you just going to be using the rifle at the range? hunting? A nice scope makes all the difference... if you are just going to be at the range and you know the distance to the targets already why buy a rangefinder? I say put more money into a nice scope.

 

[Enigma2y0u]

Well I didn't expect that, glad I asked. I thought a range finder would be more valuable.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

I second the used NF. Pass on the EGW base, the Weaver tactical is less money and has a recoil lug where the EGW does not.

If you're dead set on new stuff and want a LRF here is how I would spend the money:

$35 weaver base
$100 Seekins rings or some NF or badger from the classifieds
$300 used Bushnell elite 1500 LRF (by far the best for the $$)
$700 SWFA SS3-15x42

That's a solid setup and will put you right under budget.

 

[sulcop96]

I second the used NF. Pass on the EGW base, the Weaver tactical is less money and has a recoil lug where the EGW does not.

If you're dead set on new stuff and want a LRF here is how I would spend the money:

$35 weaver base
$100 Seekins rings or some NF or badger from the classifieds
$300 used Bushnell elite 1500 LRF (by far the best for the $$)
$700 SWFA SS3-15x42

That's a solid setup and will put you right under budget.

I second that list.

Sully

 

[Notso]

Well I didn't expect that, glad I asked. I thought a range finder would be more valuable.

AS others have said, I would definitely put your money into a nice scope, especially if you are shooting at a fixed range with known distances. Maybe think about an LRF later if you start to get into hunting with the rifle seriously. But scope first.

One thing to consider.... even at shooting ranges with targets at "known distances" - they are not always accurate. I've lasered my usual shooting ranges and most are fine, but there are a couple of the berms that are off by a significant amount. For instance, the 400m target stand is something like 410m. But can easily overcome this with something like Google earth. It has a yardstick function where you can measure from your shooting position to the targets and it will be very accurate. Should be within a couple of yards accuracy. Doesn't hurt to verify your shooting range with it to make sure your dope is correct for the ranges you think you're shooting.

 

[sib1948]

I agree with all those above. Cheap rangefinders are not that accurate and pretty much useless past 500 yards unless conditions are perfect. Save and get the best mil/mil FFP scope you can find and practice ranging your targets. MSR reticles are great and even a Sticky on those. Also, read the Sticky on Optics Selection many times. Helped me to learn what would work best for my needs. Many good used scopes for sale here on the Hide all the time and work well to 1500 yards or more! I have never had and issues purchasing many used items from Hide members, but make sure they're on the Good Guy list or have positive Feedback Scores to avoid problems. Good luck and have fun!

PS A good Kestrel and Ballistic App are a necessity for accurate LR shooting and a "must have" for 1st shot hits, once you become proficient.

 

[105gr]

For $1200 you could get a good used Mark 4. I would take that any day over a PST

 

[Enigma2y0u]

Well I finally saved all my pennies. I basically bought the list above.
- 3-15x42 SWFA
- Weaver 20MOA base
- Seekins Low rings
- Harris 6-9 swivel bipod with the notches
- Harris s-lock
- Vortex Level - just to entertain myself with.


Thanks for the help.

 

[sib1948]

You did great, so now get out there are start really enjoying this wonderful sport. Find some like minded friends in your area (not too hard). You can spot for each other and share your successful hits. Lucky you have 800 yard steel to shoot at!
Good luck and safe shooting.