Rifle Scopes Need Advice Please

RBelott

Private
Minuteman
Nov 30, 2010
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0
57
I am new to the forum and need some advice. I just purchased a new Savage FP10 in 308. My primary use for this gun will be whitetail and mule deer hunting here in the Texas panhandle. The most common shot would be anywhere from 100yards to 500 yards. I was needing some advice on what magnification would be the best for these ranges. I am trying to decide on a 3x9x50 or a 4x16x50. I also could use some advise on a 1 piece base or a 2 piece steel vs aluminum base. What height of rings I would need purchase to mount either one of these scopes to my savage. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have looked at the Vortex viper and the nikon monarch for the price range I am budgeted for.
 
Re: Need Advice Please

I would personally go with the 4-16x50mm. Thats what my Leupold Mark 4 is...4.5-14x50mm. I always use the lowest power setting to get on target. Then, if you so desire, you can zoom in to get a better look and refine your POA. If price doesnt matter, then get most magnification you can. If you are in a situation where you must budget clarity and magnification, then go with clarity. I bought the most clarity and magnification I could in my price range, and Im very happy with my Leupold Mark 4 M5 TMR. I think either would probably work at the ranges you are interested in though.

I went with a Leupold dual dove tail setup for rings. They are VERY sturdy...just at sturdy / rugged / tight as a once piece setup. However, I went this route because I am close friends with my smitty, and we tried it out to make sure my eye relief was going to be ok with this setup. If you are unsure of your eye relief, then going with a rail setup may be better for you. With the rail you will have more play to push the scope forward and back to get the correct eye relief.
 
Re: Need Advice Please

For what you want, I would also go with the 4-16X. That said, a 3-9X would also work. For shooting at much over 300 yards some type of reticle that gives you holdover points like mildots or Leupold's TMR reticle is very useful.

As for rings and bases; I usually go with Warne but that's just personal preference and because I have a Warne torque wrench. I also prefer two piece bases over one piece bases for a bolt action rifle since it leaves a bit more room for putting cartridges in the magazine.

On the MidwayUSA site, when you look at rings there is an "application" page you can pull up. It will give you recommended ring heights to go with the sizes of various scope objectives. Even if you don't buy your stuff there, it's still useful information.
 
Re: Need Advice Please

be sure and check with those who advertise here..I bought my Vortex viper and rings from SWFA and saved some change. They also told me of a rebate on the scope that nobody else had bothered to mention. If you do your home work you can find some great glass at very reasonable prices.