Rifle Scopes Choose a Scope

[Jerry45]

I've done quite a bit of reading here but this is my first time posting. So please bear with my ignorance.

I'd like to know if you had a once in a lifetime chance (which I do) to buy a quality scope which one you would choose based on what I'm about to tell you. This will help me in my selection. I 'believe' I've narrowed it down to one of three scopes but based on others opinions I could be redirected.

First, it will be mounted on a Remington 700 BDL 30/06. Presently it's mounted in a Boyd's thumb-hole stock (no bedding) with an Osprey 10-42x50 scope. It's shoots sub MOA at 100 yards. Friday I'll be receiving a Bell & Carlson Tactical Medalist Style 5 Fully Adjustable stock for it to reside in.

Right now I can only shoot to 100 yards but am hoping someday to be able to shoot out to 1000. Targets and critters. I would also like to be able to mount the scope on a Savage .223 for smaller critters at 100 + + + yards if the chance arises.

Asking too much? Don't know that's why I'm here asking. As you see by what I've posted I'm only familiar with 'cheep' scopes. I've been shooting since I'm 5 but no formal training or equipment.

So now to the scopes. I'm considering Night force NSX 5.5-22x56 or 8-32x56 or a Premier 5-25x56 Tactical.

Likes and dislikes. I like magnification. Like the 42 on the Osprey even at 100 yards.

Niteforce NXS 8-32:
Like:
Less expensive.
zero stop.
More bullet drop adjustment than 12-42
Up and Right with arrows on back of turret housing. (really like that)
30mm tube



NSX 12-42
more magnification
zero stop.
30mm tube easier to find accessories for already have what I need.
Up and Right with arrow on back of turret housing.


Dislike:
Eye piece turns with magnification knob. (really don't know if that will matter)
Lighted radical has to be adjusted by removing cover and setting rheostat then stays at that intensity.

Premier: 5-25x56
Likes:
Lower turrets.
Larger diameter turrets
Gen 2 XR radical
Eye piece (course adjustment) works separate from magnification knob.
Flip up tabs to zeroing turrets.
34mm tube.

Dislikes:
34mm tube. Harder to fine accessories and more expensive.
Scope costs approximately $1,000.00 more then NF.
only goes to 25

So what ya say.

 

[KeithR41]

Re: Choose a Scope

What exactly is your question? Which scope you should buy?

Try them both then decide, why ask us how you should spend your money?

I've had both NXS and the PH but don't prefer either.

41

 

[pistolpacknpete]

Re: Choose a Scope

i personally dont like to be moving optics around, cuz then u have to mess with re zeroing and torque values etc.

 

[Deleted member 10043]

Re: Choose a Scope

Check the ton of scopes on SWFA. Sightron Big Sky series comes to mind while reading what you like and what I've used. Guy I complete with is now using a Nightforce. I don't see any difference before and after with his scores. He still generally wins first place. He used an old Bushnell before the Nightforce. Get my point?

 

[TonyAngel]

Re: Choose a Scope

If this was a once in a lifetime opportunity, as you call it, I'd get the Premiere; because, well, it's a Premiere. The Premiere is also going to have a FFP reticle, if that's what you want/need (I believe). The Nightforce scopes are going to have SFP reticles.

You sound like you have a budget to blow and will lose what you don't spend. If that's the case, get the Premiere. If you decide that you'd prefer a Nightforce, for whatever reason, you can sell the Premiere and easily get into a Nightforce.

Based on my limited experience, the Premiere has superior glass and many consider it to be more ergonomic. Personally, I like being able to adjust the magnification on the Nightforce with the eye piece. It makes it easier wearing gloves.

I'm a big Nightforce fan and have a few of them. To me, they are the best bang for the buck and I don't think that the extra money for a Premiere is worth it. There are many others that would disagree.

 

[Shooter McGavin]

Re: Choose a Scope

I say S&B PMII.

BTW the NF F1 is a 3.5 -15 compared to the Premier 5-25, that would be a better comparison because they are both front focal. How about you look at Vortex Razor HD, they have plenty of after market things for it such as an ARD. Also, Vortex has a life time transferable warranty.

Also, your farthest distance is only 1000 yards a 10x scope will do for that.

 

[Goldbeachman]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Culpeper</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Guy I complete with is now using a Nightforce. </div></div>

While, I don't have any guys I "complete" with, Culpeper has a point. It probably isn't going to matter much and you should get what you want instead of what others think you should want, etc.

If this was really a "once in a lifetime" deal, I'd go with what almost everyone agrees is the finest scope in the world (Schmidt PMII). But it isn't really a once in a lifetime deal and you should get what scope you think fits your bill the best. After awhile, your tastes and experience are likely to change (based on what you say about magnification) and you'll get something different. I'd bet money.

Good luck!

Sorry Culpeper, just kidding.

 

[calling4life]

Re: Choose a Scope

March 8-80x56, maybe 5-50x56, though 5-32x52 would work.

You can keep ffp scopes, I've no need.

 

[Jerry45]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: K41</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What exactly is your question? Which scope you should buy?

Try them both then decide, why ask us how you should spend your money?

I've had both NXS and the PH but don't prefer either.

41 </div></div>

I was asking opinions of what I hoped would be more experienced people of what sounded like it would better fit my needs/wants. I tried to explain "my needs/wants". If I could afford 2 or 3 or a half a dozen $$$$ scopes I wouldn’t be asking anything I’d just buy them and see which I prefer. Since I’ve only had a chance to look through a 3-15 NF (once for all of 30 seconds) and nothing else other than my own “cheep” scopes, I was hoping for some advice.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Culpeper</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Check the ton of scopes on SWFA. Sightron Big Sky series comes to mind while reading what you like and what I've used. Guy I complete with is now using a Nightforce. I don't see any difference before and after with his scores. He still generally wins first place. He used an old Bushnell before the Nightforce. Get my point? </div></div>

Yep! Get your point. I agree! I was thinking a $$$$ scope won’t really make any improvement for me either but thought I’d just like some really clear glass and whatever else I could get in the package.

Just Googled the Vortex Razor HD, Schmidt PM II and the March scopes. All look nice. More food for thought.

Thanks to everyone that has replied. I’ve been doing so much research I feel like my head is going to explode. Maybe I should just be happy with the Osprey.

 

[AZIROC]

Re: Choose a Scope

I know it wasnt 1 of your choices but have you looked at the Sightron series scopes?

 

[IronMaidenFan]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jerry45</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
So what ya say.
</div></div>

Sightron

 

[Linkless]

Re: Choose a Scope

I'd say of those 3 options none. I'd certainly jump into the Sightron, either an SII Big Sky or the SIII series. You can get 2 or more for the price of your current options so no need to swap scopes around.

 

[Napsters]

Re: Choose a Scope

It all depends on what you are looking for. The glass in a SuperSniper 5x20 is good enough for most shooting. If your doing a task where low light ishots are critical better glade will make it easier and my buy you 30 minutes to an hour in the evening. You will also get a more rugged package but most 1300 -2000 dollar scopes are again, strong enough for most. If your worried about it Vortex has a no fault warranty which will cover it as long as it is not intentional. If your buddy's hunting dogs chew it up they should cover it.

The premiere and nightforce would serve you well if you don't mind spending the cash. Or the stupid people at the range that want to test their Counter Sniper scope to your NightForce F1..... You will have a line of people asking questions and wanting to check out your gear. I am ready to set up a tent on the line and shoot out of that.

 

[Paladin2147]

Re: Choose a Scope

Well you kind of started the right way. Do your homework, that's best using the search function. It will require some extensive reading. You will learn as you go. Asking a "what's best" question can quickly turn into a Ford/Chevy debate. Always try before you buy. Also, as you "grow" your needs and tastes will change.

 

[Jerry45]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: kolkio</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Well you kind of started the right way. Do your homework, that's best using the search function. It will require some extensive reading. You will learn as you go. Asking a "what's best" question can quickly turn into a Ford/Chevy debate. Always try before you buy. Also, as you "grow" your needs and tastes will change. </div></div>


My main problem and reason I was looking for advice is I can not try before I buy. At the range I go to I've only seen one Nitforce, a something to 10x? mounted on and AR. I let the young man shoot my AR so he let me shoot his and that's the only experience I've had with a NF. It was sooooo clear! Only other high dollar scope I've seen out there was USO and the guy grimmest when I merely eyeballed it in the rack and said, "nice scope". Don't get me wrong, most prole at the range are friendly but shooting $100.00 to $300.00 scopes also. I have several Ospreys and UTG's. I got to see/handle/buy the first Osprey at a gun show. The UYG's were bough sight unseen. First one I bought was $99.00 so I wasn't taking a big gamble. $2,000.00 + is a <span style="font-weight: bold">VERY BIG</span> toss of dice for me.

I've decide on NF. Now I have to decide 10-32 or 12-42. I can get the reticle I want and zero stop with the 10-32 but not the 12-42. I'm not sure if I want/need the zero stop or if I'll be happy with only going to 32. Deciding factor may be the redial. I may just chunk the whole idea and keep the Osprey on it. It isn't crystal clear but it holds and returns to zero and has take the beating the 06 has given it for the lats year/250-300 rounds I've subjected it to.

I'm a hard man to please and I find it hard to compromise. I want what I want! Something that always sticks with me is my fathers words... Find what "you want" by the best you can find and you won't be disappointed. Problem is finding "exactly" what I want. The NF is darn close but no cigar at $2,000.00 + or -. But it is the closest to what I want.

Thanks for all the help guys now its up to me.

For those interested this is the way the rifle sits right now.

 

[Goldbeachman]

Re: Choose a Scope

Actually, in terms of a gamble, buying high quality glass, especially if you can find it 'like new' is not much of a gamble at all. It tends to hold its value very well and in some cases, actually appreciates. Think of it as just parking your money in glass for awhile.

On the other hand, going from one low end brand to another, as they fail or you get sick of them, is really pouring money down the drain and a poor "<span style="font-style: italic">gamble</span>."

 

[jbailey]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jerry45</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've decide on NF. Now I have to decide 10-32 or 12-42. </div></div>

With scopes that high in magnification, watch out for heavy mirage, especially down there in LA. If the mirage is boiling, just about the only thing you can do is turn down the magnification. Don't know if 10x or 12x is low enough. There is a reason why the 5-25x is so popular. 25x is a ton of magnification, enough for hits on small targets WAY out there (1500+yds) and 5x is a good low end magnification with a big field of view and mirage beating capabilities.

 

[Jerry45]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JamesBailey</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jerry45</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've decide on NF. Now I have to decide 10-32 or 12-42. </div></div>

With scopes that high in magnification, watch out for heavy mirage, especially down there in LA. If the mirage is boiling, just about the only thing you can do is turn down the magnification. Don't know if 10x or 12x is low enough. There is a reason why the 5-25x is so popular. 25x is a ton of magnification, enough for hits on small targets WAY out there (1500+yds) and 5x is a good low end magnification with a big field of view and mirage beating capabilities.



</div></div>

Thanks James, mirage is something I never thought about. Where I've been shooting is over grass only 100 yards so haven't noticed mirage. I'm glad you brought it up. It's something else to add into the equation.

 

[Deleted member 10043]

Re: Choose a Scope

I hate making typos.

 

[Jerry45]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Culpeper</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I hate making typos.

</div></div>

I'm dyslexic. Was it someone else or me?

Once again thank you to everyone that gave me input. I pulled the trigger on a NF 10-32x56 zero stop MORA....

While I was typing that NF called. MORA won't be available until sometime in June. Had a nice conversation with the gentleman at NF. On his recommendation I'll be receiving a 10-32 with a NP-R1 radical no zero stop either Saturday or Monday.

One advantage to being dyslexic is I read what is supposed to be there even when other people misspell. Disadvantage is people don't know what in the hell I'm trying to say.

 

[Graham]

Re: Choose a Scope

You will find that you will use less magnification than you think you need. Stay away from high-mag scopes, they are tourist traps with a useless high-end and no elevation travel.

 

[rookie7]

Re: Choose a Scope

Jerry45,

I am in the same boat you are in regards to stores near me do not carry the selection of scopes I am researching.

However, my boat is considerably less expensive than yours. I am looking at a $1000 or under scope.

My advice to you is to buy the best you can afford.

I find 2 things interesting in this thread:

1. You have labeled this as a once in a lifetime purchase 2. Someone discounted (maybe I misinterpreted) how significant this purchase is to you based on the amount of coin you're about to drop.

I am amazed at the number of folks on here who actually own scopes that cost $3K or thereabouts. Besides the obvious - because they can - I wonder why? Are they that much better than the ss 5-20? Do they give that much of an edge in competition?

If I could spend $3K on a scope, cash money, I'm not sure if I would. Maybe so, maybe not.

I did buy a 1967 Ford Mustang in 1988 for $1600. Wish I still had that car! I was young and dumb though!

 

[fdkay]

Re: Choose a Scope

I will give you my opinion, which is worth exactly what you paid for it.

You have become too enamored with high magnification.
If you plan on doing nothing but shoot on a square range and attempt nothing more than tiny groups, then high mag is fine.

You are shooting a rifle with a sporter barrel.
NOT conducive to strings of fire and small groups.

When you eventually move up to high quality glass, you will be amazed at what you see with the clarity and resolution of good glass.

I am willing to bet that you can see more clearly and resolve finer detail looking through my IOR 3-18 on 18X than you can with your osprey on 42X.

While top tier glass is ALWAYS a good idea S&B, Premier etc... I think you would be far better served on upper entry level glass like an IOR 3-18 or 6-24, bushnell HDMR 3.5-21 or SS and send that rifle off for action truing and a match grade barrel.
Hart will true your action and install one of their barrelle for 600 bucks. RW Snyder has very good prices and is a highly regarded smith.

Magnification is certainly good for some things, but can also become a hindrance. High quality glass with excellent resolution and clarity is far better than more magnification for the sake of magnification.

 

[Shooter McGavin]

Re: Choose a Scope

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rookie7</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Jerry45,

I am in the same boat you are in regards to stores near me do not carry the selection of scopes I am researching.

However, my boat is considerably less expensive than yours. I am looking at a $1000 or under scope.

My advice to you is to buy the best you can afford.

I find 2 things interesting in this thread:

1. You have labeled this as a once in a lifetime purchase 2. Someone discounted (maybe I misinterpreted) how significant this purchase is to you based on the amount of coin you're about to drop.

I am amazed at the number of folks on here who actually own scopes that cost $3K or thereabouts. Besides the obvious - because they can - I wonder why? Are they that much better than the ss 5-20? Do they give that much of an edge in competition?

If I could spend $3K on a scope, cash money, I'm not sure if I would. Maybe so, maybe not.

I did buy a 1967 Ford Mustang in 1988 for $1600. Wish I still had that car! I was young and dumb though! </div></div>

Since you mention $3000 scopes and the SS 5-20 I thought I would chime in again. I have 4 S&B PM II 5-25 P4f and 2 of the SS 5-20. I like both scopes, however the SS IS NO S&B. The SS is a great value for the money, I got mine on the hide deal for $1000 each, the glass is good and has a good reticle. The S&B PM II is a great scope and shines when shooting out past 1000 yards. If money wasn't a problem I would have S&B on all of my rifles.

Also, I have NF and IOR scopes on my rifles. I have what I can afford at the time. For what the OP wants I believe the SS 5-20 would be a good scope, since they have the Facebook deal going on right now.

 

[Jerry45]

Re: Choose a Scope

For those interested.

I let the wife look through the NF. She's used to the Osprey on her .223. I almost had to pry the rifle away from her. She was looking for squirrels in a tree 135 yards out.

I wonder if she could have made a head shot.

 

[Bob Friend]

Re: Choose a Scope

I'm no precision expert, so take what I say with a grain of salt.

I had a Bushnell 2.5-16x42 on LaRue LT-104 atop my AR-15. Very nice value for money. At around 12x I can see my heartbeat in the reticle and, after an hour of shooting, see the vapors coming off the end of the barrel. Which always left me wondering "when do I squeeze the trigger?". (I shoot at the range at the 100yd line.)

I went lower in magnification and got better glass for the money.

My 2c--buy glass, not magnification. Also, take any money you save and spend it on the best trigger available.

So many options! Good luck!!!

 

[Dirtdigger]

Re: Choose a Scope

Nice stick, only thing left is a new tube and your set.

As for the scope, my shooting buddy has a NF 12x42, and i have the premier 5x25. Both are great and we each like our own better so each their own...although he does admit that the premier has better glass and is clearer on 25 than his but he loooooves his mag, i don't need it. ymmv

 

[Jerry45]

Re: Choose a Scope

Thanks Dirt. I'm going to keep my eye out for a beater rifle just for the action. I'll send it off and have it worked and re-barreled. I'll then put this action back in the original stock. Dreams for the future.

James, mentioned mirage, I never notice any in the Osprey (poor glass). While I was setting up the cheek-well to match the scope yesterday in the back yard I was looking out across the neighbors roof. Yep! I can now see mirage.

 

[VKC]

Re: Choose a Scope

Of you choices, I can only comment on the NF 5.2-22x56, 5.2-22x50 & Premier 5-25x56.

First of, I don't see any real advantage between the 56mm objective NF vs. the 50mm. I would go with the 50mm for a slightly lower profile. I'm compared them side to side and can't tell a real difference.

Between NF & Premier, I prefer Premier because of better image quality, the more solid clicks, the additional change in resistance every 1mil. I can dial my premier scope by feel without even looking up from through the scope. Also, premier has some more reticles, like the Gen 2XR, which I like better than the NF options.

 

[WKR]

Re: Choose a Scope

I would buy the Nightforce, I like my sightron SIII's but the NXS 5.5-22x50 has better glass and more solid adjustments and the zero stop is a really nice feature, I was in the same boat you are now a few years ago and instead of buying what I wanted (Nightforce) I bought vx iii's, sightrons, etc. and now they seat in the safe. I suggest you buy the Nightforce now instead of replacing another one later like I am doing now. Hope this helps.

 

[Jerry45]

Re: Choose a Scope

I got the Nightforce. Then I decided I needed a new custom 308 barreled action to put it on.

The 06 is back in the Boyds thumb-hole stock.