Rifle Scopes Multi-purpose Swarovski vs. U.S. Optics

Billygoat1

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Minuteman
Aug 30, 2012
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Multi-purpose Swarovski vs. U.S. Optics

Hi, newbie here. I have had great success with iron sights on my LRB M26, but I am looking to increase my range and flexibility. I am looking for a multipurpose scope that can be used for anything from CQ tactical out to 600 yards. I have narrowed my scope choice down to two premium scopes… just looking for some info to push me one way or the other.

- Swarovski Z6 illuminated 1.7-10 x 42 Ballistic Turret system. 18.3 oz, 12.75 inch, FOV 75.6 ft., 3.75 inch eye relief

- US Optics SN3 illuminated 1.8-10 x 37 Mil Dot system. 24 oz, 12 inch, FOV 41.6 ft, 3.5 inch eye relief.

I have never used either the ballistic turret or Mil Dot system so I am not wedded to either. Whatever system I use, my main goal once I have it zeroed and adjusted is for it to be fast and intuitive, no matter the range.

The Swarovski has a red dot center and big black lower and side reticles and also a slightly lower magnification, and wider FOV so it seems like it would be superior on the close in tactical stuff. The big difference between the two is the Swarovski Ballistic Turret system vs. the Mil Dot on US Optics. Again, I have never used either type of system and am looking for feedback so I can make an informed choice. Which is more flexible? Which is easier to use after an initial learning phase? Any thoughts would be appreciated.
 
Re: Multi-purpose Swarovski vs. U.S. Optics

From what I know of USO, they are big on customization.

Maybe you could get them to build you the model you are looking at with the reticle you want.

Their scopes are built like tanks, I can't imagine a sturdier scope.

Joe
 
Re: Multi-purpose Swarovski vs. U.S. Optics

You have a bunch of choices in reticles with the USO (look on the website). I like the JNG Mil reticle in a 10x. The entire reticle is lit on the USO vs the Swarovski which only has the center lit.
 
Re: Multi-purpose Swarovski vs. U.S. Optics

Get the SN-3s with ERGO and EREK. Illuminated JNG reticle. Some people may say the ERGO for parallax isn't necessary, but EREK is a great feature. Allows very quick elevation adjustments. Very robust build, and even with EREK, the SN-3s is a compact scope. 10X will take you to 600 no problem, I don't think you are looking for a target/bench scope.

I've got 2, one on a JP, one on a LMT MWS. Both have the JNG reticle. I love them.
I just put Spuhr mounts under both, nice set up.

Here is the LMT with the new Spuhr.

DSC_0158-1.jpg
 
Re: Multi-purpose Swarovski vs. U.S. Optics

Try out a scope with a 1.x before you buy one. I can't shoot well with both eyes open between 1.1 and about 3x. Over 3x I can focus on the reticle, on a true 1x both eyes see the same. Between the two the focus gets screwed up between each eye and I have to close my left eye to make solid hits. You may not have the same problem but it would suck to find out you do after spending the money.
 
Re: Multi-purpose Swarovski vs. U.S. Optics

USO's, even when compact, are big and heavy. I'm not knocking USO's, I love my 1.8-10X37, but it's 1.75 pounds of scope with a 37mm objective lens that has a 47mm OD. The eyepiece is also 47mm, so if your LRB M25 keeps it's rear sight you'll need rings over 1" tall (base to center) to clear. My USO is on an LRB M25 with a 20MOA rail and I'm running 1.024" rings that just clear my rear sight. 5 clicks up on my rear sight and I hit the eyepiece.

The nice things about USO is their customer service is awesome, their scopes are customizable, they're made in US, and they stand behind their products.

All that said... for your needs I'd be more interested in USO's 1-8X28. More compact, better power range for your wants and still a bombproof USO.