Looking for budget friendly glass

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Hi all,
I am looking to start building my first bolt action 6.5 CM rifle. (I have a multi caliber can that I will be using with this rifle although maybe not full time)
I haven't settled on anything just yet but here is what I am thinking so far:
Action: Zermitt Origin SA(Or a TL3. I think I have seen more mentions of the TL3 on this site, but not really sure why or what the difference between the 2 are.)
Barrel: Shouldered prefit barrel (possibly from PVA or NSS. I have reached out to both for more information). 26" with heavy Palma contour
Stock/Chassis: KRG Bravo (Although I'd really love the Whiskey-3)
Trigger: I'll probably use the stock trigger for now.
Glass: I need some recommendations on good quality budget glass. My friends over at TGT recommended snipershide to me and I've even purchased what's being a called a diamond in the rough scope from Primary Arms (SP1-6x24) based on recommendations that originated from snipershide.
I need something for the rifle I am planning to build ^^ that will allow me to get my feet wet and learn the fundamentals of zeroing in a scope and learning how to adjust it for different distances and situations. If I can stay within the $300-$600 range that would be great. If not then I am open to other suggestions that exceed that. I am open to buying used and/or a trade. I am considering selling my AR-15 style rifle to provide additional funding for this rifle, but with the ATF being GAF right now I am bit hesitant to do so.

Please keep in mind I am completely new to bolt action rifles (I have never owned or fired one). I am more than willing to do research and I have been down a rabbit hole doing so for about 2 weeks now lol. I have read some of the other threads on here about optics, but some of them are a bit dated so I wanted to get a fresh perspective.

Thank you all in advance. So far my experience here on the hide has been fantastic. You all are a great group. It is much appreciated.

 

[b6graham]

there's no stock trigger when you buy an action

just get the Origin unless you NEED AW mags.

Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25 (getting one from the PX will be within budget)
Bushnell Match Pro ED maybe?
or be a true poor and get an Arken

aside from that you'll be up in the $1k range and there are a bunch of options there

 

[steve101610]

I dont think anyone ever ends up being happy with a scope in the $300-600 range. You would be better off saving more. In the $1k-1500 there are a bunch of excellent options that you won’t be disappointed in.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

I dont think anyone ever ends up being happy with a scope in the $300-600 range. You would be better off saving more. In the $1k-1500 there are a bunch of excellent options that you won’t be disappointed in.

The problem with that is then I would need to forgo my original build plan and just get a cheap prefab rifle (which I guess I am willing to do if I can still end up with a quality rifle, and then just build one later on). There is no quality in that range even if purchased used? Or perhaps one of the ones @b6graham mentioned?

 

[stello1001]

Vortex strike eagle

 

[steve101610]

The problem with that is then I would need to forgo my original build plan and just get a cheap prefab rifle (which I guess I am willing to do if I can still end up with a quality rifle, and then just build one later on). There is no quality in that range even if purchased used? Or perhaps one of the ones @b6graham mentioned?

Midway still has the sale on aero solus hunters for under $1500 and they are excellent for the money. I grabbed 2 and they both shoot sub moa with factory ammo. Get the solus then throw a bushnell dmr3 on it and enjoy your time at the range.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Midway still has the sale on aero solus hunters for under $1500 and they are excellent for the money. I grabbed 2 and they both shoot sub moa with factory ammo. Get the solus then throw a bushnell dmr3 on it and enjoy your time at the range.

I was originally going to get a Solus but someone on here on a different post mentioned something about trigger hangers and that it might be more difficult to find different options. While falling down the rabbit hole that I am currently in I went from factory howa 1500, to Howa 1500 barreled action, to Solus barreled action and finally arrived at the Origin action haha. I am willing to backtrack though. I was also going to try and find an option that sticks to the Rem700 platform. But I am sure you know way more about this stuff than I do and I am always open to advice. I will check out the Solus again. Thanks.

 

[b6graham]

pm me. yours are disabled

 

[Basher]

Tikkas make excellent factory rifles overall, and trigger swaps are stupid easy. Just an idea.

As far as glass options around $600, things are kind of limited in terms of what I would consider worthwhile for this area of the sport/shooting world. But limited =/= nonexistent!

If you buy used, $600 would get you in to a Burris XTR2, Vortex Viper PST 2 of some kind, as well as numerous Athlon options (Helos BTR2, Midas Tac, maybe Ares BTR2, etc.). The mid-grade and up Athlons have shown remarkable tracking consistency and the glass is decent as well. For start options, any of those would work well enough. You may want to upgrade within a year or so, but that wouldn’t be difficult to do in most cases.

Bump up to $800, and you can add used Bushnell DMR2, LRHS/LRTS, maybe even a used Burris XTR3, etc. The options just under the $1K limit are pretty significant, and their quality has improved drastically in the past couple of years.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Tikkas make excellent factory rifles overall, and trigger swaps are stupid easy. Just an idea.

As far as glass options around $600, things are kind of limited in terms of what I would consider worthwhile for this area of the sport/shooting world. But limited =/= nonexistent!

If you buy used, $600 would get you in to a Burris XTR2, Vortex Viper PST 2 of some kind, as well as numerous Athlon options (Helos BTR2, Midas Tac, maybe Ares BTR2, etc.). The mid-grade and up Athlons have shown remarkable tracking consistency and the glass is decent as well. For start options, any of those would work well enough. You may want to upgrade within a year or so, but that wouldn’t be difficult to do in most cases.

Bump up to $800, and you can add used Bushnell DMR2, LRHS/LRTS, maybe even a used Burris XTR3, etc. The options just under the $1K limit are pretty significant, and their quality has improved drastically in the past couple of years.

Hopefully I can find a way to achieve both a quality fire arm and quality glass. I am starting to backtrack a bit and look at some cheaper rifle options like maybe a Tikka or the Solus barreled action. I was looking at the Howa 1500 barreled actions at one point which would give me a lot of extra funds for glass. The problem I was having when I was looking at the prefab rifles is it is difficult to find someone who actually has one in stock. That is for a 24"-26" heavy barrel version in 6.5CM. I will still be spending time researching today. If there are any sniperhide partner vendors that provide discounts or that would be good to talk to feel free to suggest them as well. I am new here so I am still learning who is who and everything snipershide has to offer.

Thank you,

 

[steve101610]

I was originally going to get a Solus but someone on here on a different post mentioned something about trigger hangers and that it might be more difficult to find different options. While falling down the rabbit hole that I am currently in I went from factory howa 1500, to Howa 1500 barreled action, to Solus barreled action and finally arrived at the Origin action haha. I am willing to backtrack though. I was also going to try and find an option that sticks to the Rem700 platform. But I am sure you know way more about this stuff than I do and I am always open to advice. I will check out the Solus again. Thanks.

The solus hunter at under $1500 is a steal. There is no issues with the trigger hanger system but some chassis and stock might need a little clearance for it. They accept Remington 700 style triggers and stocks. The hunter comes with the AG composites adjustable hunter stock which is excellent. It also comes with the triggertech field trigger that can be adjusted down to 2.5lbs. Takes origin shoulder prefits if you want to swap barrels down the road. The factory heavy fluted barrels shoot great. Way better setup than a tikka or howa.

 

[stello1001]

Hopefully I can find a way to achieve both a quality fire arm and quality glass. I am starting to backtrack a bit and look at some cheaper rifle options like maybe a Tikka or the Solus barreled action. I was looking at the Howa 1500 barreled actions at one point which would give me a lot of extra funds for glass. The problem I was having when I was looking at the prefab rifles is it is difficult to find someone who actually has one in stock. That is for a 24"-26" heavy barrel version in 6.5CM. I will still be spending time researching today. If there are any sniperhide partner vendors that provide discounts or that would be good to talk to feel free to suggest them as well. I am new here so I am still learning who is who and everything snipershide has to offer.

Thank you,

Dude, you're all over the place, seriously. You need to figure out how much you want to spend total but I'll help you out a bit.

Option 1:

Howa 1500 barreled action from Brownells.com in 6.5 creedmoor with 24" heavy barrel. They have them in stock for about ~$500 give or take.

You buy whatever chassis/stock from MDT, KRG, etc.

Option 2:

The aero Solus Hunter mentioned above. It's a great deal and all you need is glass.


Option 3:

You buy an Aero Solus barreled action. Yes I've heard there's an issue with fitment in a Bravo stock (maybe others too) but it's a minor issue and any smith or even yourself should be able to fix it.

Option 3B:

Buy an Aero Solus from PVA with one of their custom barrel for just slightly more than previous Option.

All of these will serve you well. Most of these will probably not be in stock anywhere near you. You may find a regular howa1500 in some store and you can cycle it or see it to get an idea. But I doubt you'll find a barreled action locally for you to purchase. I have plenty of howas and they are great shooters.


Someone else mentioned Tikka. Those are superb rifles but for the money, I'd probably just go to the Aero options.

 

[Agracer]

If you can stretch your budget a bit, just get a good optic from the get go.

This is a crazy good price for this scope. Bushnell Father's Day sale. I run this on my PRS rig and upgraded after using a PST G2 for a season. It's much cleaner at distance, less CA and I just get a better picture and see hits/misses a lot cleaner than the PST when out past 500 yards.

Buy Elite Tactical 3.5-21x50 DMR3 Riflescope G4P Reticle and More | Bushnell

Shopping for the Elite Tactical 3.5-21x50 DMR3 Riflescope G4P Reticle - Learn more about the latest Elite Tactical and other hunting or shooting gear at Bushnell.

www.bushnell.com

 

[steve101610]

If you can stretch your budget a bit, just get a good optic from the get go.

This is a crazy good price for this scope. Bushnell Father's Day sale. I run this on my PRS rig and upgraded after using a PST G2 for a season. It's much cleaner at distance, less CA and I just get a better picture and see hits/misses a lot cleaner than the PST when out past 500 yards.

Buy Elite Tactical 3.5-21x50 DMR3 Riflescope G4P Reticle and More | Bushnell

Shopping for the Elite Tactical 3.5-21x50 DMR3 Riflescope G4P Reticle - Learn more about the latest Elite Tactical and other hunting or shooting gear at Bushnell.

www.bushnell.com

That is a crazy good deal on a very over looked scope. Those bushnell elite tactical scopes punch above their price.

 

[moosemeat]

The bushnell deal is pretty awesome. It also makes that Match Pro like $450.
Arken beats the lowest vortex. The strike eagle is in a level higher. Meopta makes some good glass in the $750 range. I shoot a XRS3 and it's pretty good but not razor g2 level. We'll above PST2 level. I would look for used good scopes. Burris xtr2 or even a xtr3.
I, as in me and maybe not you, would rather have XRS3 level or better glass and a lesser rifle. I can have a rifle rebarreled, slap a new stock/chassis on it, change triggers and more. I can not make glass better. The aiming system is the most important part.

 

[MikeMiller]

Vortex Viper. Find a used one in your price range in PX all the time. Great scopes. Great warranty. Right now if you can swing it I would get the new 5-25x50 HD FFP but you won’t find used

 

[saddlerocker]

You will need a trigger for the origin.
Triggertech Primary or Special for rem700 clones. There may be cheaper options.
If you wait to order things around holidays you will see significant discounts. Maybe July 4th.
I built my first bolt gun with Origin and KRG around Black Friday and saved probably $800.

Don't forget about scope rings, bipod, and a muzzle device if you need them.

Vortex has late model stuff in that price range.
And Vortex has the best "no questions asked" replacement warranty.

If you could manage $1,000 the Burris XTR III is now that low.
XTR2 are $600 ( I went with a 4-20x50 XTR2, and it's a good scope, but already looking to upgrade glass quality)

Athelon?

Go to EuroOptic and filter riflescopes by price and max magnification you want.

 

[Kfive73]

Vortex pst gen 2 is what I started with. I think it’s a great scope, others disagree. you don’t want to slap a $300 scope on a custom build. Save some cash for a while and get something you will be happy with in the long run. The origin, bravo combo seems to be the go to “budget build.” But like other have said, the origin doesn’t come with a trigger. I think triggertech usually has a 4th of July sale for like 20% off.

You mentioned a 1-6 scope…. I think you’ll want to kick up the magnification to at least 18x if you want to get out there a bit.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Vortex pst gen 2 is what I started with. I think it’s a great scope, others disagree. you don’t want to slap a $300 scope on a custom build. Save some cash for a while and get something you will be happy with in the long run. The origin, bravo combo seems to be the go to “budget build.” But like other have said, the origin doesn’t come with a trigger. I think triggertech usually has a 4th of July sale for like 20% off.

You mentioned a 1-6 scope…. I think you’ll want to kick up the magnification to at least 18x if you want to get out there a bit.

Hi
Thanks for your reply. I do have this scope here: https://www.primaryarms.com/primary...e-illuminated-acss-aurora-556-yard-m6-reticle
I was just going to use it temporarily as I learn the fundamentals of shooting and then eventually replace it once I start shooting longer distances and get better at shooting in general. But it says it is calibrated for 5.56/.308 (6.5 CM isn't mentioned)

 

[Kfive73]

If you already have that scope, you can run it. But it’s honestly not the right tool for shooting long with a bolt action.

It’s may work as you learn the fundamentals of building your position to make the shot, but it will probably hinder you after that. First, the subtensions are set up for yardage. You want a scope set up with MIL subtensions. .2 or .5 is the norm. With MIL subtensions, you just use your dope card or ballistic app, dial and shoot (in layman’s terms). Second, most tactical shooters run first focal plane. That one is second focal plane. On first focal planes, the subtension measurement at all magnifications remain the same in relation to the target. On second focal planes, it changes with relation to the target as you change the magnification. So with second focal plane, once you change the magnification, the subtension measurements change in relation to target

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

If you already have that scope, you can run it. But it’s honestly not the right tool for shooting long with a bolt action.

It’s may work as you learn the fundamentals of building your position to make the shot, but it will probably hinder you after that. First, the subtensions are set up for yardage. You want a scope set up with MIL subtensions. .2 or .5 is the norm. With MIL subtensions, you just use your dope card or ballistic app, dial and shoot (in layman’s terms). Second, most tactical shooters run first focal plane. That one is second focal plane. On first focal planes, the subtension measurement at all magnifications remain the same in relation to the target. On second focal planes, it changes with relation to the target as you change the magnification. So with second focal plane, once you change the magnification, the subtension measurements change in relation to target

That is all great to know. It looks like I will need to save up and invest in the $800-$1500 dollar range. I tend to agree with what someone had said previously about going big on glass and get a cheaper rifle for now as the rifle can be modified and the glass can't. Hopefully I can make my decision soon. I am tempted however to wait for the 4th of July.

I appreciate you taking the time to reply and provide your input/recommendations.
Thank you.

 

[AmmoFort]

Find a member on the Hide that is near you in Texas and see if they'll take you out. Buy them lunch, pay for fuel, and ammo. You'd be a whole lot closer to making a better decision vs. your blind folded dart board thing you got going on now.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Find a member on the Hide that is near you in Texas and see if they'll take you out. Buy them lunch, pay for fuel, and ammo. You'd be a whole lot closer to making a better decision vs. your blind folded dart board thing you got going on now.

Haha!
I am more than willing to do all that. Most people don't list where they are from so I will have to do some digging. I could start a thread for it but don't want it to end up sounding like a personal ad lol. But yes being able to try out a couple different rifles/glass along with some beginner instructions would be greatly helpful in my decision making process. Thanks.

 

[flogxal]

That is all great to know. It looks like I will need to save up and invest in the $800-$1500 dollar range. I tend to agree with what someone had said previously about going big on glass and get a cheaper rifle for now as the rifle can be modified and the glass can't. Hopefully I can make my decision soon. I am tempted however to wait for the 4th of July.

I appreciate you taking the time to reply and provide your input/recommendations.
Thank you.

I'm inclined to try to find bargains (performance for cost) and I went from bottom dollar ($200-300) to midrange ($500-800) to spendy ($1500-2k). I was worried I would not like distance shooting, running a bolt gun, etc. I found myself interested and still spent in steps.

Would I say go to $1500+ right off the bat? I don't know, really. Depends on how comfortable and confident you are in saying, "this works for me" versus other signals. Those other signals can be, "is my scope impressive to others?" or "do people make fun of this scope on the internet?"

If something works for you, it works for you. But at the same time -- the best you know, is the best you know.

Go to a decently stocked store and look through some scopes just for a first-level set of thoughts. But looking through your scope downrange, at the range you will use, is much more helpful. In a store, you may not get enough distance on offer to tell any differences, and the lighting may be so good any scope looks decent.

Why did I spend more money? I like shooting in difficult lighting. I'm old and my eyes, especially at distance, are not as sharp as they used to be.

The "buy once cry once" people are correct -- in hindsight. But they are speaking to what is the scope they themselves would prefer. And they are not you.

Also I would say -- be cautious with the optics thoughts shared on rokslide. In my few years of reading there, they seem to praise questionable scopes and criticize others that might work just fine in many settings. Their emphasis on drop testing seems useful only for people who work with greasy hands and careless minds, and tends to eliminate from "serious consideration" a lot of scopes that may serve you perfectly well.

 

[saddlerocker]

Primary Arms has some 25% "Bonus Bucks" thing going on with Vortex right now.
You could get a Strike Eagle 5-25 or 3-18 or PST Gen2 3-15 if thats in your budget.
Basically you get 25% coupon for PA.
So you could get a trigger and Bipod or rings around 4th of July (PA always has sales)

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

After much research and consideration I think I am going to go this route here:

MPA BA PMR Pro Rifle II - MasterPiece Arms, Inc.

Masterpiece Arms builds World Class Rifles. We start with our industry leading Chassis System, utilize the Best Actions and Triggers produced, and a 416R SS Handlapped Barrels provide some the best shooting, most accurate rifles in existence. Designed, Built and Enhanced by Long Range Shooters...

masterpiecearms.com

It has the equivalent to a CDG action, 26" heavy barrel, Bix N Andy single stage trigger, a nice, foldable chassis. I think it will be the best "bang" for my buck lol.

I am a bit torn though between
https://www.eurooptic.com/Vortex-Strike-Eagle-FFP-5-25x56-EBR-7C-MRAD-Riflescope-SE-52504.aspx - On sale for $799
and
https://www.bushnell.com/elite-tact...-dmr3-riflescope-g4p-reticle/BU-ETDMR3G4.html - This was on sale again for $922 again yesterday

 

[Ty21]

After much research and consideration I think I am going to go this route here:

MPA BA PMR Pro Rifle II - MasterPiece Arms, Inc.

Masterpiece Arms builds World Class Rifles. We start with our industry leading Chassis System, utilize the Best Actions and Triggers produced, and a 416R SS Handlapped Barrels provide some the best shooting, most accurate rifles in existence. Designed, Built and Enhanced by Long Range Shooters...

masterpiecearms.com

It has the equivalent to a CDG action, 26" heavy barrel, Bix N Andy single stage trigger, a nice, foldable chassis. I think it will be the best "bang" for my buck lol.

I am a bit torn though between
https://www.eurooptic.com/Vortex-Strike-Eagle-FFP-5-25x56-EBR-7C-MRAD-Riflescope-SE-52504.aspx - On sale for $799
and
https://www.bushnell.com/elite-tact...-dmr3-riflescope-g4p-reticle/BU-ETDMR3G4.html - This was on sale again for $922 again yesterday

For about $20 more dollars you can get the new viper hd I know it’s designed around hunting but it’s going to have better glass same reticle as the strike eagle or atleast looks close to me objective lens is going to be 50mm instead of 56 and tube is 30 instead of 34 but I think the glass is going to be much better then the strike eagle.

 

[stevieb92]

After much research and consideration I think I am going to go this route here:

MPA BA PMR Pro Rifle II - MasterPiece Arms, Inc.

Masterpiece Arms builds World Class Rifles. We start with our industry leading Chassis System, utilize the Best Actions and Triggers produced, and a 416R SS Handlapped Barrels provide some the best shooting, most accurate rifles in existence. Designed, Built and Enhanced by Long Range Shooters...

masterpiecearms.com

It has the equivalent to a CDG action, 26" heavy barrel, Bix N Andy single stage trigger, a nice, foldable chassis. I think it will be the best "bang" for my buck lol.

I am a bit torn though between
https://www.eurooptic.com/Vortex-Strike-Eagle-FFP-5-25x56-EBR-7C-MRAD-Riflescope-SE-52504.aspx - On sale for $799
and
https://www.bushnell.com/elite-tact...-dmr3-riflescope-g4p-reticle/BU-ETDMR3G4.html - This was on sale again for $922 again yesterday

Good choice. If you're planning to compete in PRS matches, go ahead and sign up to PRS and get your membership number. Then you can use the MPA discount for PRS members. If you are MIL or LEO or a first responder, Euro Optic can get a better price on the Strike Eagle for you. You have to contact them to get your account setup with that discount.

I have that Strike Eagle scope on a rifle and it is a really good optic for the price point. It's not as good as my Razor Gen 3 optics, but the strike eagle doesn't cost as much either.

 

[Kfive73]

I agree with using the PRS discount for MPA. It’s a big enough discount to take it from “dang that’s a lot of money” to “at that price I’d be stupid not to get it”

 

[BCP]

After much research and consideration I think I am going to go this route here:

MPA BA PMR Pro Rifle II - MasterPiece Arms, Inc.

Masterpiece Arms builds World Class Rifles. We start with our industry leading Chassis System, utilize the Best Actions and Triggers produced, and a 416R SS Handlapped Barrels provide some the best shooting, most accurate rifles in existence. Designed, Built and Enhanced by Long Range Shooters...

masterpiecearms.com

It has the equivalent to a CDG action, 26" heavy barrel, Bix N Andy single stage trigger, a nice, foldable chassis. I think it will be the best "bang" for my buck lol.

I am a bit torn though between
https://www.eurooptic.com/Vortex-Strike-Eagle-FFP-5-25x56-EBR-7C-MRAD-Riflescope-SE-52504.aspx - On sale for $799
and
https://www.bushnell.com/elite-tact...-dmr3-riflescope-g4p-reticle/BU-ETDMR3G4.html - This was on sale again for $922 again yesterday

I've had a few of those bushnell 3.5-21s and the glass was adequate to good and they were super tough. You can occasionally find an older used HDMR for say 650 bucks. Vortex I would shop for a used 3-15 PST II or an older 5-20 Razor model those are a couple where you can get the PST for say 500-600 or the Razor for 900ish. All of them have good enough glass quality the 3-15 PST II had the easiest eyebox for me.

 

[Rancid Coolaid]

I skimmed this and would make a few counter-suggestions, because diversity is our strength.

1. If SWFA is still a thing, I would strongly recommend the old school fixed 10X, I still recommend it to new shooters because it is all but bomb-proof, and it takes away lots of the complicating factors. Your first priority as a new marksman should be in developing good fundamental skills, and a complicated scope doesn't do that, and usually doesn't help. And, when ready to move on (and you will outgrow the SWFA scope), you get most of your money back in selling it - or you'll keep it as an "old faithful" backup.
2. More than a specific rifle action or stock or scope, professional marksmanship instruction will advance your skill set. I highly recommend new shooters get professional instruction. Those that don't develop shit habits and get frustrated.

In short, get a basic setup, get some instruction, decide if you like it and want to commit more resources (time and money) to it, then rock on.

If there is a "pride in ownership" priority, scrap all that and go with other advice. If this is about becoming a good shooter, regardless of platform, take that path.

Almost anything you are looking at now you will outgrow if you get serious about this. I'd check the "I am serious about this" box before I started sinking money into more.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

For about $20 more dollars you can get the new viper hd I know it’s designed around hunting but it’s going to have better glass same reticle as the strike eagle or atleast looks close to me objective lens is going to be 50mm instead of 56 and tube is 30 instead of 34 but I think the glass is going to be much better then the strike eagle.

I am still open to other optics. Those 2 are just the ones that I've narrowed it down to so far. It is going to take a few months before I even get my rifle from MPA once I order it today . So I have plenty of time to save funds and shop around. I am thinking of waiting for 4th of July. I will take a look at the one you suggested. Regardless of which one I get I need it to have turret lock.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

I agree with using the PRS discount for MPA. It’s a big enough discount to take it from “dang that’s a lot of money” to “at that price I’d be stupid not to get it”

Where do I sign up for this?

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

I skimmed this and would make a few counter-suggestions, because diversity is our strength.

1. If SWFA is still a thing, I would strongly recommend the old school fixed 10X, I still recommend it to new shooters because it is all but bomb-proof, and it takes away lots of the complicating factors. Your first priority as a new marksman should be in developing good fundamental skills, and a complicated scope doesn't do that, and usually doesn't help. And, when ready to move on (and you will outgrow the SWFA scope), you get most of your money back in selling it - or you'll keep it as an "old faithful" backup.
2. More than a specific rifle action or stock or scope, professional marksmanship instruction will advance your skill set. I highly recommend new shooters get professional instruction. Those that don't develop shit habits and get frustrated.

In short, get a basic setup, get some instruction, decide if you like it and want to commit more resources (time and money) to it, then rock on.

If there is a "pride in ownership" priority, scrap all that and go with other advice. If this is about becoming a good shooter, regardless of platform, take that path.

Almost anything you are looking at now you will outgrow if you get serious about this. I'd check the "I am serious about this" box before I started sinking money into more.

What are your thoughts on the choice of rifle then? Do you have counter suggestions to that? I am always open to different opinions as I am completely new to this and don't really know anything yet. I have spent the last couple of weeks doing research and reading peoples comments and suggestions and the MPA is what I finally settled on. Glass is still up in the air. Thanks for your counter-suggestions I appreciate it.

 

[stello1001]

What are your thoughts on the choice of rifle then? Do you have counter suggestions to that? I am always open to different opinions as I am completely new to this and don't really know anything yet. I have spent the last couple of weeks doing research and reading peoples comments and suggestions and the MPA is what I finally settled on. Glass is still up in the air. Thanks for your counter-suggestions I appreciate it.

It was already suggested before that glass should be what you spend most on and rifle could be just something decent. You did the complete opposite by deciding a very nice production rifle and low end scope.

I still think you go with a howa 1500 barreled action, drop it in a Bravo, and spend good dollar on glass.

Or...

Aero solus barreled action, drop it in a Bravo, spend the rest on glass.

But not everybody will agree with this I suppose.

The barrel, trigger, stock, can be upgraded a year down the road, etc. Your glass, well, will remain. You can't change reticle, turrets, or lenses.

 

[ironpony52]

Buy a SIG Cross in 6.5 put a Vortex 4-16 or 6-24 on it and have a blast. Then you will have a platform to grow on although it will probably do everything you want out of the box

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

It was already suggested before that glass should be what you spend most on and rifle could be just something decent. You did the complete opposite by deciding a very nice production rifle and low end scope.

I still think you go with a howa 1500 barreled action, drop it in a Bravo, and spend good dollar on glass.

Or...

Aero solus barreled action, drop it in a Bravo, spend the rest on glass.

But not everybody will agree with this I suppose.

The barrel, trigger, stock, can be upgraded a year down the road, etc. Your glass, well, will remain. You can't change reticle, turrets, or lenses.

No I understand that and it makes sense. I guess one of the reasons I settled on the rifle I did is because it will take a few months before I even get it which leaves me those few months to save funds for glass and not have to necessarily settle for budget glass. I did revisit the Howa's again but I wasn't able to find one with 26" heavy barrel. Going the MPA route I am getting a high quality rifle and will be able to save for and adorn it with good quality glass by the time I receive it.

 

[stello1001]

No I understand that and it makes sense. I guess one of the reasons I settled on the rifle I did is because it will take a few months before I even get it which leaves me those few months to save funds for glass and not have to necessarily settle for budget glass. I did revisit the Howa's again but I wasn't able to find one with 26" heavy barrel. Going the MPA route I am getting a high quality rifle and will be able to save for and adorn it with good quality glass by the time I receive it.

Gotcha. I think the howas with the heavy barrel come in 24" barrel which is more than plenty.

Realistically, how much do you want to spend on glass if you bought the MPA?

It is in fact a great rifle by the way. I just think the strike eagle will leave you wanting more. If you shop around in the used PX here, I think you can make $700-$850 dollars get you something solid.

Where in TX are you?

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Gotcha. I think the howas with the heavy barrel come in 24" barrel which is more than plenty.

Realistically, how much do you want to spend on glass if you bought the MPA?

It is in fact a great rifle by the way. I just think the strike eagle will leave you wanting more. If you shop around in the used PX here, I think you can make $700-$850 dollars get you something solid.

Where in TX are you?

I live in near Rosenberg (SW of Houston)
I can bump my budget up on glass to about $1000-1200 now that I have to wait a few months to get my rifle. If I had to buy everything now then yes I would have to settle for a cheaper rifle, but I think doing it this way will work out best in the long run and leaves me with a rifle with a higher resale value if for whatever reason I do want to sell it down the road. Trust me I have been pondering all this night and day for a couple of weeks now and weighing the different options haha. It's time for me to crawl out of the black hole and back into society lol.

 

[stevieb92]

Where do I sign up for this?

Here is the link to the Precision Rifle Series membership page. Pick one. The codes are down on the same page below the membership options.

https://www.precisionrifleseries.com/memberships

 

[stello1001]

I live in near Rosenberg (SW of Houston)
I can bump my budget up on glass to about $1000-1200 now that I have to wait a few months to get my rifle. If I had to buy everything now then yes I would have to settle for a cheaper rifle, but I think doing it this way will work out best in the long run and leaves me with a rifle with a higher resale value if for whatever reason I do want to sell it down the road. Trust me I have been pondering all this night and day for a couple of weeks now and weighing the different options haha. It's time for me to crawl out of the black hole and back into society lol.

I know Rosenberg pretty well. I will be at the DEA match just north of Corpus I believe on the 30th. You are more than welcome to come out and you check my scopes out.

I always take a tango6 and a minox ZP5. I can also take one of my rifles with a bushnell elite so you can see through them.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

I know Rosenberg pretty well. I will be at the DEA match just north of Corpus I believe on the 30th. You are more than welcome to come out and you check my scopes out.

I always take a tango6 and a minox ZP5. I can also take one of my rifles with a bushnell elite so you can see through them.

That'd be great. I would like to go to a match anyway just to see what they are like. I have a long way to go before I can actually compete of course. I'll DM you so I can get more details. Thanks.

 

[stevieb92]

If you can stretch your budget just a little, I would highly recommend the MPA Matrix Pro PMR rifle. In my opinion, the Matrix Pro chassis offers a much better feature set over the ESR chassis in the BA PMR Pro II rifle. The amount of adjustability of the Matrix Pro is what drew me to that chassis. I started out with a BA Comp and sold that to upgrade to the Matrix Pro. I love the Matrix Pro chassis so much, I've got 5 of them now.

Here's a pic of my 6 creedmoor.

Here's my .223 trainer.

Just a thought for consideration.

https://masterpiecearms.com/shop/matrix-pro-pmr-rifle/

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

If you can stretch your budget just a little, I would highly recommend the MPA Matrix Pro PMR rifle. In my opinion, the Matrix Pro chassis offers a much better feature set over the ESR chassis in the BA PMR Pro II rifle. The amount of adjustability of the Matrix Pro is what drew me to that chassis. I started out with a BA Comp and sold that to upgrade to the Matrix Pro. I love the Matrix Pro chassis so much, I've got 5 of them now.

Here's a pic of my 6 creedmoor.

View attachment 8438018

Here's my .223 trainer.
View attachment 8438017

Just a thought for consideration.

https://masterpiecearms.com/shop/matrix-pro-pmr-rifle/

The Matrix Pro is actually the one I will be going with. The BA PMR Pro II rifle doesn't have the upgraded CDG action they put in their rifles now, but the Matrix does. The description of the actions between the Matrix and their custom option differ slightly so I am still trying to find out if the action in the Matrix is in fact CDG or just a customized variant ARC made specifically for MPA. For the Matrix it says MPA Elite and for their custom rile it says MPA Elite (ARC Coup de Grace Action). I emailed Woody about this, and still want it clarified that the Matrix is in fact the ARC Coup de Grace Action. What's also got me curious is that if you go the "custom" option and choose all the same options as the Matrix it comes out to be a lot more expensive.

Did your rifles come with a Plano gun case?

 

[stello1001]

That'd be great. I would like to go to a match anyway just to see what they are like. I have a long way to go before I can actually compete of course. I'll DM you so I can get more details. Thanks.

Perfect!

You'll also be able to see a few MPAs I'm sure, my howa 1500, and many more actions and scopes I'm sure.

 

[stevieb92]

The Matrix Pro is actually the one I will be going with. The BA PMR Pro II rifle doesn't have the upgraded CDG action they put in their rifles now, but the Matrix does. The description of the actions between the Matrix and their custom option differ slightly so I am still trying to find out if the action in the Matrix is in fact CDG or just a customized variant ARC made specifically for MPA. For the Matrix it says MPA Elite and for their custom rile it says MPA Elite (ARC Coup de Grace Action). I emailed Woody about this, and still want it clarified that the Matrix is in fact the ARC Coup de Grace Action. What's also got me curious is that if you go the "custom" option and choose all the same options as the Matrix it comes out to be a lot more expensive.

Did your rifles come with a Plano gun case?

Good deal! Phil, Woody and Lisa are good folks to deal with. I did not buy complete rifles from MPA, just the chassis and accessories.

 

[saddlerocker]

Burris XTR3 are down to $900-$1,000 now. If your budget is closer to $1k it opens up a lot of better options.
New or used.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Good deal! Phil, Woody and Lisa are good folks to deal with. I did not buy complete rifles from MPA, just the chassis and accessories.

I noticed you have an Origin action in one of them. Origin was one of the other actions I was looking at. I decided to go the complete rifle route because I have no gunsmithing skills at all yet. And it was a huge PITA trying to find a barrel.

 

[D0ntTr3@d0nM3]

Perfect!

You'll also be able to see a few MPAs I'm sure, my howa 1500, and many more actions and scopes I'm sure.

Do you compete with your Howa 1500?

 

[AmmoFort]

What are your thoughts on the choice of rifle then? Do you have counter suggestions to that? I am always open to different opinions as I am completely new to this and don't really know anything yet. I have spent the last couple of weeks doing research and reading peoples comments and suggestions and the MPA is what I finally settled on. Glass is still up in the air. Thanks for your counter-suggestions I appreciate it.

Saw this in a different thread. No idea how often it holds true, but it looks legit-ish.