Rifle Scopes Glass for a 'walking around' rifle

[SquarePizza]

I find myself possibly needing to look for new glass. I am currently using a swfa 6x on a lighter field rifle. Picture: http://i.imgur.com/8r6xxvX.jpg

I am rather happy with this glass since most of my shooting is 100-500 yards. However I have been thinking of attending a few courses this year and some of those that I have looked into require(suggest?) a minimum of a 10x. And since its the holiday season, I will try to keep my eyes open for new or used deals.

I am looking for glass that would continue the light and mobile theme of the rifle. I really want to keep my cheek height the same, or lower than what I have now. And obviously being able to meet the 10x requirement. I have always shot low power, and would be happy there, but I don't know maybe I am missing something.

Illumination would be nice, since I shoot into a tree line that is heavily shaded most of the day.

All in all I would like to stay under $2000


Currently I am leaning pretty heavy on the vortex pst 2.5-10x32, but maybe there are other better options out there that I am missing...?

 

[Crosshair]

For value, probably can't beat the 2.5-10x32 PST you mentioned. If you wanna spend more and step up to the Nightforce 2.5-10x32, that is an excellent and battle proven scope. The newer 42mm version is getting rave reviews and is on my short list.

 

[Papagallos]

I bought a NF 2.5-10x42, and I am loving it thus far. It is light weight and compact, and the glass is bright. You can not go wrong with it. A set of .885 rings will do the trick if you run it on a bolt gun.

 

[E. Bryant]

I really like the SWFA 3-15x42mm for this type of "walking around rifle". It's a FFP scope so you can run it at any power you'd like (I think this would be important to you, given your comfort level with lower magnification); it's reasonably light and compact; and it's very affordable. It does lack illumination which you mention as a desirable feature, so I guess you'd need to weigh that into consideration.

The Bushnell Elite Tactical 3-12x44mm would be another solid choice; it does offer illumination, but unfortunately not in conjunction with the terrific G2DMR reticle.

 

[roggom]

Since the release of the NF 2.5-10x42, the 2.5-10x32 has dropped in price (on the secondary market), you can pick up a used one for around $1200. Go take a look through some, there just is no comparison between the NF and the SS or PST.

 

[SquarePizza]

The SWFA 3-15 was definitely a consideration, as was the 10x HD. But I would like to try an illuminated scope. Gave a lot of thought to the NFs as well.

I guess my real hold up is, does an everyday woods/field rifle really benefit from magnification over 10x?

 

[roggom]

IMHO it's the low end that is more important. Wide field of view in the brush, then up to 10 for a cross canyon of field shot. Another consideration is the VX6 2-12. Mag for thicket to prairie.

 

[You-Two]

Maybe take a look at the Sightron 3.5-10x44 IRMOA.

Sightron Riflescopes SIII Series SIIISS3.510X44LRIRMOA

 

[redneckbmxer24]

You can't beat a NF 2.5-10 for that purpose and your price range.

 

[BobinNC]

Another one worth a look, under your price range and can be found at IOR Valdada, Riflescopes, Tactical FFP,
[h=2]IOR 2.5-10 x 42 30mm Tactical First Focal Plane, MP-8 Dot Illuminated Reticle[/h]

 

[jakelly]

Those 2.5-10x32 nightforce scopes are a great value now that the 42s are out. I would also take a look at the weaver tactical, I have really grown fond of the lack of side focus on the 2-10 for the exact type of application you are describing. The locking turrets are great in the woods, too.

 

[Andy27AL]

Glass for a 'walking around' rifle

All excellent choices. The nightforce and some of the rather expensive choices are of course slightly better but depending on your criteria, the swfa, bushnell, etc may do a perfect job. I have owned a bushnell and found it to be a good choice. Now just wait and see what comes up on the for sale section first.

 

[winxp_man]

For a lower $ amount Vortex PST 2.5-10x32. For higher $ amount NF 2.5-10x42. Both have illumination and both have good warranty.

 

[pyplynr]

I just replaced my Nightforce 2.5-10x32 with the new 42mm version. Both scopes are awesome. The 42mm should gather a little more light and the green illumination is really nice. I'm using the same Ken Farrell low alloy rings (.735") on the 42mm version over a light varmint barrel contour. I don't think you could go wrong with either one.