Rifle Scopes Frustrated & Exhausted! - New Member Needs Your Optics Wisdom

[G-Pa_M1A-guy]

Hi guys. New member here and new to optics. I’ve been searching for the right optics for some time. I happened upon this forum recently and after reading several detailed “Stickies”, I thought I’d reach out to this community for some help in making a decision on optics for my Springfield Armory M1A Loaded (MA9222) w/walnut stock, 7.62X51MM NATO (.308WIN), 22” National Match barrel. I bought this for myself as a 60-year birthday present. I quickly realized that without proper optics I can’t fully appreciate the enjoyment of shooting it.

Knowing that I’m approaching age 62, in excellent health, and wear vision correction eyewear - contact lenses or glasses for nearsightedness, may be of help to you in evaluating which optics would best suit my situation.

I've been down so many rabbit trails that it’s become frustrating and exhausting. I could use your expert opinions and recommendations. I've narrowed my search down to two Leupold optics: 1) VX-3i 6.5-20x40mm (30mm) w/side focus Fine Duplex reticle (#170886) or 2) VX-3i 4.5-14x40mm (30mm) w/side focus CDS Duplex reticle (#170703). I want to keep it simple, hence the Fine Duplex and Duplex reticles. I’d also like it as compact in length as is reasonable with adequate mounting space for proper fit and mount selection, and a 40mm-42mm objective.

I've learned that it’s difficult to find an all-around optic that I can use for long range shooting (out 600-800 yds., maybe beyond - Am I being unrealistic here?), hunting and target, and if SHTF use – all within a budget of $500-$1,000 “retail”, not MSRP. The above optics are both SFP, but I’d prefer FFP, if a good, reliable one with quality glass could be found within the budget I outlined, but I haven’t been successful in finding one. I’m very open to your suggestions and recommendations of other quality brands that might meet my criteria. It’s obvious that I’m trying to get the “most bang for the buck”.

If it helps, here are the links to the two Leupolds above:
1) https://www.leupold.com/scopes/rifle...0mm-side-focus

2) https://www.leupold.com/scopes/rifle...side-focus-cds

I look forward to hearing your wisdom.

 

[supercorndogs]

Bushnell LRHS. They are an excellent compromise with very little compromise.

 

[_Windrider_]

go to th eoptics section of the exchange and just watch for something that fits your budget. there was a Bushnell DMR for 795 I saw earlier, its now sold though. You could probably find a Burris XTR in that range as well.

 

[ker2222]

i went with the bushnell as well with some similar search priorities

 

[spife7980]

I know you said you like plain basic reticles but if youre getting further out there a reticle really is an asset to your shooting. You dont need a horus or christmas tree but something that can tell you something about what youre seeing can be really helpful.

Its easier to look at your reticle lines and say "ok, I can see Im shooting 2 moa low according to this handy scale directly in my line of sight so I need to dial accordingly" vs looking at a plain duplex and saying "I guess Im shooting a foot and a half low so that would be how many clicks again? 12+6=18 inches which at 600 is 3 moa or 12 clicks total" but it actually ends up only being the two moa from before however youre bad at guessing dimensions 6 football fields away so youre off in your estimations from the get go.

You seem to understand that much though because youre looking for front focal plane. What I dont understand is why you want a front focal on a scope with w reticle that cant take advantage of the benefits of front focal plane.

Look at the swfa ss 3-15x42 https://swfa.com/catalog/product/view/id/113813/
It is front focal, has abundant internal adjustment, and has a reticle that while not busy or distracting can still offer some reference. Reticles are a tool and its easier to cut lumber with a saw than by chewing through it with your teeth. [IMG2=JSON]{"data-align":"none","data-size":"full","height":"636","width":"639","src":"https:\/\/swfa.com\/media\/catalog\/product\/cache\/1\/image\/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95\/s\/s\/ss315x42moa1-r.jpg"}[/IMG2]


Vortex has some nice offerings in that price range as does sig, athlon, and the leupold vx3i LRP is a different version of the first scope you linked but its front focal and has an external turret to adjust with. Its just pricey. But opening your options up to more detailed reticles will open a few more doors to like a used burris xtr2 or a bushnell elite tactical offering.

Edit: Oh, this weaver super slam looks to be a heck of a deal and it has a mil dot reticle, still basic but better than no reference points https://www.natchezss.com/weaver-tactical-rifle-scope-3-15x50mm-sf-mil-dot-reticle-matte-black.html

 

[Dtarget]

I would look at the Bushnell LRTSi 3-12. IMO, it would look good on an M1a. Lots of features and decent reviews. Street price is $900-1300 depending who you are.

 

[_Windrider_]

Hi guys. New member here and new to optics. I’ve been searching for the right optics for some time. I happened upon this forum recently and after reading several detailed “Stickies”, I thought I’d reach out to this community for some help in making a decision on optics for my Springfield Armory M1A Loaded (MA9222) w/walnut stock, 7.62X51MM NATO (.308WIN), 22” National Match barrel. I bought this for myself as a 60-year birthday present. I quickly realized that without proper optics I can’t fully appreciate the enjoyment of shooting it.

Knowing that I’m approaching age 62, in excellent health, and wear vision correction eyewear - contact lenses or glasses for nearsightedness, may be of help to you in evaluating which optics would best suit my situation.

I've been down so many rabbit trails that it’s become frustrating and exhausting. I could use your expert opinions and recommendations. I've narrowed my search down to two Leupold optics: 1) VX-3i 6.5-20x40mm (30mm) w/side focus Fine Duplex reticle (#170886) or 2) VX-3i 4.5-14x40mm (30mm) w/side focus CDS Duplex reticle (#170703). I want to keep it simple, hence the Fine Duplex and Duplex reticles. I’d also like it as compact in length as is reasonable with adequate mounting space for proper fit and mount selection, and no greater than a 42mm objective.

I've learned that it’s difficult to find an all-around optic that I can use for long range shooting (out 600-800 yds., maybe beyond - Am I being unrealistic here?), hunting and target, and if SHTF use – all within a budget of $500-$1,000 “retail”, not MSRP. The above optics are both SFP, but I’d prefer FFP, if a good, reliable one with quality glass could be found within the budget I outlined, but I haven’t been successful in finding one. I’m very open to your suggestions and recommendations of other quality brands that might meet my criteria. It’s obvious that I’m trying to get the “most bang for the buck”.

If it helps, here are the links to the two Leupolds above:
1) https://www.leupold.com/scopes/rifle-scopes/vx-3i-6-5-20x40mm-side-focus

2) https://www.leupold.com/scopes/rifle-scopes/vx-3i-4-5-14x40mm-30mm-side-focus-cds

I look forward to hearing your wisdom.

This would be perfect.

https://www.snipershide.com/shootin...-bushnell-3-5-21-h59-10mil-z-stop-t-lock-1050

 

[Hondo64d]

Bushnell LRHS. They are an excellent compromise with very little compromise.

+1

John

 

[Just Macca]

Another vote for Bushnell LRHS 3-12. Great optic, great price.

 

[CRT2]

May want to ensure you also get a good quality scope mount for your M1A.

 

[supercorndogs]

May want to ensure you also get a good quality scope mount for your M1A.

Probably the most important thing.

 

[G-Pa_M1A-guy]

I know you said you like plain basic reticles but if youre getting further out there a reticle really is an asset to your shooting. You dont need a horus or christmas tree but something that can tell you something about what youre seeing can be really helpful.

Its easier to look at your reticle lines and say "ok, I can see Im shooting 2 moa low according to this handy scale directly in my line of sight so I need to dial accordingly" vs looking at a plain duplex and saying "I guess Im shooting a foot and a half low so that would be how many clicks again? 12+6=18 inches which at 600 is 3 moa or 12 clicks total" but it actually ends up only being the two moa from before however youre bad at guessing dimensions 6 football fields away so youre off in your estimations from the get go.

You seem to understand that much though because youre looking for front focal plane. What I dont understand is why you want a front focal on a scope with w reticle that cant take advantage of the benefits of front focal plane.

Look at the swfa ss 3-15x42 https://swfa.com/catalog/product/view/id/113813/
It is front focal, has abundant internal adjustment, and has a reticle that while not busy or distracting can still offer some reference. Reticles are a tool and its easier to cut lumber with a saw than by chewing through it with your teeth. [IMG2=JSON]{"data-align":"none","data-size":"full","height":"636","width":"639","src":"https:\/\/swfa.com\/media\/catalog\/product\/cache\/1\/image\/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95\/s\/s\/ss315x42moa1-r.jpg"}[/IMG2]


Vortex has some nice offerings in that price range as does sig, athlon, and the leupold vx3i LRP is a different version of the first scope you linked but its front focal and has an external turret to adjust with. Its just pricey. But opening your options up to more detailed reticles will open a few more doors to like a used burris xtr2 or a bushnell elite tactical offering.

Edit: Oh, this weaver super slam looks to be a heck of a deal and it has a mil dot reticle, still basic but better than no reference points https://www.natchezss.com/weaver-tactical-rifle-scope-3-15x50mm-sf-mil-dot-reticle-matte-black.html

Thank You spife7980! This scope really intrigues me. I've done some research on it since your recommendation. I think I've found my optic! I know I said that I'd like to keep it simple, but do you think I would be better off in the long-run with the Mil-Quad reticle? An "old dog" can learn new tricks.

 

[G-Pa_M1A-guy]

Thank you all for your recommendations. I've looked into all of your suggestions and I'm leaning heavily toward SWFA SS 3-15x42 FFP for my first rifle scope. Nice product for the money for my first quality scope.I really appreciate this community and the help I've received thus far.

 

[spife7980]

Thank You spife7980! This scope really intrigues me. I've done some research on it since your recommendation. I think I've found my optic! I know I said that I'd like to keep it simple, but do you think I would be better off in the long-run with the Mil-Quad reticle? An "old dog" can learn new tricks.

It doesnt really matter. Mil or Moa is just two separate paths to the same ends. Like miles vs kilometers, newtons vs pounds, they are just different units of measure for the same thing. Just so long as your reticle matches your turret adjustments theres no reason to bother thinking anymore in depth on it. Read whats in front of your face with the reticle and youll be just fine.

 

[koshkin]

Your requirements and price range pretty much scream SWFA SS 3-15x42 FFP.

Personally, I prefer mrad to MOA, so I like this one:
https://swfa.com/swfa-ss-3-15x42-tactical-rifle-scope-3.html

But if MOA reticle and turrets is more up your alley, get the MOA version:
https://swfa.com/catalog/product/view/id/113813/

If you are willin gto compromise on the high magnification, also consider SWFA SS 3-9x42. I have two of them and like them immensely:
https://swfa.com/swfa-ss-hd-3-9x42-tactical-30mm-riflescope.html

It sorta depends on what you are looking for. I prefer the turrets and the optics on the 3-9x42 (better contrast), but the 3-15x42 offers a broader magnification range and adjustable parallax.

Both have been very reliable in my experience.

ILya

 

[CharlieNC]

For what its worth I was older than you when I jumped into long range and prone shooting. I've read many recommendations, looked through many scopes, and owned several. While I've upgraded over time one of my favorites is still a Sightron 6-24 ffp; optical clarity is great, the reticle is functional, turrets solid, cost $650 when I bought it. Obviously not the greatest, but a great value. Other scopes will continue to go as upgrades occur, but but this one.

 

[Mossyoak44]

Also look into the new Athlon Ares. It's in ffp with hd glass and it's in your budget. I want the 2-15 for my next hunting rifle build.

 

[Gunfighter14e2]

Hi guys. New member here and new to optics. I’ve been searching for the right optics for some time. I happened upon this forum recently and after reading several detailed “Stickies”, I thought I’d reach out to this community for some help in making a decision on optics for my Springfield Armory M1A Loaded (MA9222) w/walnut stock, 7.62X51MM NATO (.308WIN), 22” National Match barrel. I bought this for myself as a 60-year birthday present. I quickly realized that without proper optics I can’t fully appreciate the enjoyment of shooting it.

Knowing that I’m approaching age 62, in excellent health, and wear vision correction eyewear - contact lenses or glasses for nearsightedness, may be of help to you in evaluating which optics would best suit my situation.

I've been down so many rabbit trails that it’s become frustrating and exhausting. I could use your expert opinions and recommendations. I've narrowed my search down to two Leupold optics: 1) VX-3i 6.5-20x40mm (30mm) w/side focus Fine Duplex reticle (#170886) or 2) VX-3i 4.5-14x40mm (30mm) w/side focus CDS Duplex reticle (#170703). I want to keep it simple, hence the Fine Duplex and Duplex reticles. I’d also like it as compact in length as is reasonable with adequate mounting space for proper fit and mount selection, and a 40mm-42mm objective.

I've learned that it’s difficult to find an all-around optic that I can use for long range shooting (out 600-800 yds., maybe beyond - Am I being unrealistic here?), hunting and target, and if SHTF use – all within a budget of $500-$1,000 “retail”, not MSRP. The above optics are both SFP, but I’d prefer FFP, if a good, reliable one with quality glass could be found within the budget I outlined, but I haven’t been successful in finding one. I’m very open to your suggestions and recommendations of other quality brands that might meet my criteria. It’s obvious that I’m trying to get the “most bang for the buck”.

If it helps, here are the links to the two Leupolds above:
1) https://www.leupold.com/scopes/rifle...0mm-side-focus

2) https://www.leupold.com/scopes/rifle...side-focus-cds

I look forward to hearing your wisdom.

If you shoot a lot like every week to the tune of 200-300+ rds every weekend or so, understand M14/M1A's eat scopes. If it's going to be a safe queen or just a few rds a year you can get away using most anything for a while. The M14/M1a has a lot more going on during the firing cycle, than most any other gas gun made.

 

[bribassguy]

How about a Razor HD LR... you getting great glass and an amazing warranty. It's light, compact and 42mm which ticks all you boxes.

http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-razor-hd-lh-3-15x42-hsr4-riflescope/reticle

It's got a great reticle so you can make adjustment but it's not like a H59 where you've got dots everywhere.

 

[G-Pa_M1A-guy]

Your requirements and price range pretty much scream SWFA SS 3-15x42 FFP.

Personally, I prefer mrad to MOA, so I like this one:
https://swfa.com/swfa-ss-3-15x42-tactical-rifle-scope-3.html

But if MOA reticle and turrets is more up your alley, get the MOA version:
https://swfa.com/catalog/product/view/id/113813/

If you are willin gto compromise on the high magnification, also consider SWFA SS 3-9x42. I have two of them and like them immensely:
https://swfa.com/swfa-ss-hd-3-9x42-tactical-30mm-riflescope.html

It sorta depends on what you are looking for. I prefer the turrets and the optics on the 3-9x42 (better contrast), but the 3-15x42 offers a broader magnification range and adjustable parallax.

Both have been very reliable in my experience.

ILya

Thanks koshkin. I agree. After much research and deliberation I've decided to go with the SWFA SS 3-15x42 FFP. I'm game to learn something new, so I'm leaning heavily toward the Mrad version. The price point makes it affordable to venture into a new frontier.

 

[G-Pa_M1A-guy]

May want to ensure you also get a good quality scope mount for your M1A.

Absolutely agree, CRT2 . I've chosen the Smith Enterprise 7" extended M1A Picatinny rail mount and heavy duty tactical rings. Hefty, but battle tested to take everything the M1A dishes out, as Gunfighter14e2 pointed out.