Rifle Scopes New scope for the AR-10...Nightforce ??

G

Goldbears93

Private
Minuteman
Apr 6, 2018
20
2
#1
Hi there!

Just got a new custom made 18” AR-10 in .308 about a month ago, and I am torn on what scope I want to throw on it!

I live in Texas and This gun will primarily be used for hunting whitetail out to about 300 yards. Varmits / pigs out to 600 yards and steel out to about 900 / 1K (I don’t need to hit the steel accurately, just do it for fun)

I have been doing TONS of research and am pretty much stuck between the Nightforce ATACR 4-16x42 f1 and the Nightforce NXS 2.5-10x42.

I have never physically seen or held either of these scopes, and would love to hear from someone that has used them.

I will be walking around the ranch / hunting in a blind / driving around with this rifle so having an overly heavy rifle is less than ideal. It’s at 8 pounds as is, so it won’t be the lightest rifle, and that’s fine, but I certainly don’t want something that it super unwieldy.

Would love to have the ATACR’s 16x, but I hear it’s pretty heavy. Some folks say its perfect for the AR and some say it’s too heavy.

I do love the weight of the NXS, but wish it had just a couple more degrees of magnification.

Fell in love with the Leupold Mark 6 on paper, but after reading too many negative reviews about tracking issues, I decided NF might be the way to go. Not really looking to spend above the ATACR range.

Would love to get yalls thoughts and opinions! Am open to hearing about other scopes that might fit my needs well!

Thank you!!
 
#2
I'd vote for the 4-16 ATACR. I have one on my MSR10 and the extra weight is not noticeable in the long run. I look at it this way: while you may not want the extra weight, you might need the extra magnification at some point. If your rifle is currently 8lbs then it will be either 9.4 with the NXS or 10lbs with the ATACR. The weight difference is really small in the overall scheme if using a sling.

In terms of length they are within an inch of each other so I wouldn't worry over that. What will help is the better clarity and low light use on the ATACR.

Here is a pic for reference with the ATACR on an MSR10. Good luck and post back with what you choose!
IMG_20180331_194345.jpg
 
  • Like
Reactions: MPrimo and Dthomas3523
#4
It'd be hard to argue against the 4-16 atacr without suggesting a S&B. While you may not use the 16x other than on steel you may want more than the 10x for hunting
 
#6
Atacr 4-16 F1, Leupold Mark 5 3.8-18, or USO B-10 1.8-10 would be my top 3 for an SPR type build.

Or an SB short, but that gets into another price range.
 
#12
Had a NXS 2.5-10x32. Great scope, nice glass, zero stop. Basic mil reticle but the hollow dots was a nice touch. Ultimately, 10x was not enough magnification. I'd rather have more and not need it, than need it and not have it.
 
Last edited:
#15
I’m just going to throw out a suggestion. The SHV 4-14 F1. It’s NXS quality glass, has a bit more power than the 2.5-10, and is very affordable for what you get. I have one on a 16” .308 gasser and I love it. I feel like it checks many positive boxes, and at $1100ish street price, that leaves money for ammoand or training. I haven’t spent hardly any time behind the ATACR 4-16, but I have a S&B 3-20 on my GAP-10. While the SHV isn’t at that level, obviously, it’s also about 1/3rd the price. In my opinion, it’s a really neat scope for the price/category.
 
#16
Wow thank y’all so much for your help and thanks @Subwrx300 for posting those pics, this has been a lot of help!!

Sounds like the ATACR is the majority favorite. Given that I have never held or seen one in person nor have any relative idea what a 30oz scope feels like. Is it something you could still make an offhand shot with while standing if you needed too?

Just trying to get a better feel for how manageable the weight is. Some people work it up to be a lot and some say it isn’t that bad at all.

Sorry @Dthomas3523 , did I accidentally break a forum rule, still learning around here!

Thanks for the help guys!!
 
#18
Any of you folks have experience with the Leupold Mark 5 / 6 or the VX6HD?

Really like the size and weight of them, but I hear they have tracking issues? Leaning towards the ATACR, but don’t want to rule the leupolds out just yet!

Thanks y’all!
 
#19
I will be getting a Mark 5 within the next few months. I haven't heard of any issues with the 5's yet, but they are just hitting the market.

Someone just posted a review of tracking on a 6 and there was some offset left/right due to reticle cant.

I'm sure Leupold will handle it with the warranty, but for the price difference, I'd probably look at the 5.

The other issue with Leupold is they went full retard on their illuminated reticle prices. If illumination is important, you will pay a premium for it over a non illuminated Leupold.

If weight is of a concern, there is also the Vortex Razor AMG. Its under 29 oz, but its a 6-24.


Here is a pic of my AMG on one of my gas guns. I'm not sure of the exact weight, but its easily managed compared to most precision bolt guns.

IMG_3729.jpg
 
  • Like
Reactions: Subwrx300
#20
Dthomas3523 said:
I will be getting a Mark 5 within the next few months. I haven't heard of any issues with the 5's yet, but they are just hitting the market.

Someone just posted a review of tracking on a 6 and there was some offset left/right due to reticle cant.

I'm sure Leupold will handle it with the warranty, but for the price difference, I'd probably look at the 5.

The other issue with Leupold is they went full retard on their illuminated reticle prices. If illumination is important, you will pay a premium for it over a non illuminated Leupold.

If weight is of a concern, there is also the Vortex Razor AMG. Its under 29 oz, but its a 6-24.


Here is a pic of my AMG on one of my gas guns. I'm not sure of the exact weight, but its easily managed compared to most precision bolt guns.

View attachment 6891754
Click to expand...
Nice rig! Is that an Aero M5E1? Do you still have your ATACR?
 
#21
Subwrx300 said:
Nice rig! Is that an Aero M5E1? Do you still have your ATACR?
Click to expand...

Thanks! It's an M4E1. I'll probably never use another upper besides the aero enhanced. So much better IMO.

I traded my ATACR. I had 1st world issues with it. I prefer 10 mil revs and I prefer the Vortex turrets. For my eyes, the Razor G2 and AMG are also easier to get behind.

Not a knock on ATACR at all. Just came down to tiny preferences, and I'll probably own another one again.
 
#22
I have both. Use the 4-16 on a JP .223 and had the 2.5-10x42 on a SCAR 17. The 2.5-10 is currently rifleless :)
IMO more mag is better. Past 600 I'd personally prefer a higher mag scope, say 5-25.
I do really like the 4-16!
 
#23
I'd go with ATACR for magnification. But, the NXS is plenty nice glass.

I have had both. I traded the ATACR for two SHV. Still have the NXS. Both were higher magnification. I love me some Nightforce. No need to look at other scopes in my world.
 
#25
I can’t speak for the ATACR 4-16, although according to Nightforce, it’s specifically made for 308 caliber. But I do have a 2.5-10x42 mounted on my 556 SPR and it works great. Also, if you happen to live in DFW, give me a shout, I can let you try it out :)
 
#26
I always say buy the best scope you can afford and the ATACR is the better scope. Weight should not be a consideration in my opinion. Its not like you will mount scope on the end of the barrel. And if you cant handle some extra ounces, carry a five round mag rather than that fully loaded 20 and you wont notice the "extra weight"
 
  • Like
Reactions: Subwrx300
#31
If I were to set up such a rifle, the short list of optics would be made up of the following three;
Schmidt & Bender PM2 5-20x50 Ultrashort with P4FL reticle.
Nightforce ATAC-R 4-16x42 Mil-C reticle.
Minox ZP5 3-15x50 MR5 reticle.
Either one would do just fine.
 
#32
donho00 said:
View attachment 6925620
Click to expand...
Nice setup! I have the exact scope, mount, and Trijicon RMR. I used to have my RMR in the angle position. I recently moved it to the top. And it’s conveniently much faster switching from scope to red dot. I really think that’s the reason NF made a low profile turret. And the height is just right too with just the RMR window only above the turret. And the body flush. NF really gave detail thought on the 4-16 F1. Great scope, and great glass..
 
  • Like
Reactions: donho00
#33
Contrary to popular belief glass quality is much more important than objective size for good low light capability. I'd say objective size doesn't make a noticeable difference.

What type and size of optic is somewhat dependent on what you'll be using the rifle for. As an example I use my AR for occasional coyote hunting(usually use a .243) and possibly HD should the need ever arise. My shots are from 20 yards to 300 yards. I have a Leupold VX-R 2-7x33 on my AR with a Firedot 4 reticle. The illumination is nice but I've found I very seldom use it. For HD I believe it could come in handy.

I too do not like big scopes on an AR, even ones with a 20" barrel like mine. I don't know how to put in to words exactly but it just doesn't feel right. For precision long range shooting though I don't believe there would be much choice though.
 
#35
I have a USO 3.2-17x TPAL on an SR25, mostly because 1. I have it already and 2. it's good enough for that rifle despite the size and weight. A clip on NV unit will still work. For size, there aren't many that beat that NXS IIRC, maybe one of the Zeiss or S&B's in similar size. Just can't remember.

I'd probably rather have a B10. You really can't do better than USO for the price. That fellow with the USO for sale, the 1.8-10x, that would be a great setup if it's not too expensive (I can get the B10's for a pretty good price through USO now). I'm one of the guys who believes in greater FOV so 10x is perfect for 1000m. I basically use 1x per 100m as a rule of thumb. So my .50, it wears a 5-25x USO. Yeah, I have a few USO's. Didn't plan on it, they just work and tend to be around for the right price on here.

Uh, if you look around here, one of the advertisers (Cameraland? Another one maybe?) has STEINER tactical and military scopes for HALF OFF! They're demo's but look now. Damn, I really wanted one. You'll be limited on the reticle you can choose but that's about it, otherwise they're fully loaded. They have a 4-16 and some others too. The military one for $1200!!! normally goes for $2200.

THAT's where I'd get it if I were you. Steiner is a tier one optic. There have been so many killer sales this summer, wish I could have jumped on more of 'em. I could really have used one of those scopes! Still can...

FINALLY, what optics I don't get from you guys when you upgrade to Tangent Thetas, I get from Ebay for half price (it's the only place I buy ACOG's anymore). See, any of the top optic mfg.'s have stellar warranties and standards so even if you get something a little beat up or damaged, it's not a big deal. Turns out I've only had to send one back.

Good luck, hope that helps. Jump on that Steiner if you can, mildot I think but hell, for less than $1200?
 
#36
Rhed said:
Nice setup! I have the exact scope, mount, and Trijicon RMR. I used to have my RMR in the angle position. I recently moved it to the top. And it’s conveniently much faster switching from scope to red dot. I really think that’s the reason NF made a low profile turret. And the height is just right too with just the RMR window only above the turret. And the body flush. NF really gave detail thought on the 4-16 F1. Great scope, and great glass..
Click to expand...


Its my first Optic/RMR setup. I will try it both ways. The low turret makes sense. what distance did you zero the rmr at?
 
#40
I have played with both scopes (NXS and ATACR), if your primary concern is weight then IMO go with the NXS. If you are wanting more bells and whistles like F1, magnification, and better glass... Then the ATACR. I was torn between the two also for my build. SHV was not in contention in my mind because it is not durable as the NXS or ATACR lines. My primary objective with my build was weight reduction so I went with 6.5 Grendel in an AR15 and the NXS. Been pleased with my choice and my objective was met. Confident out to 800yds with a light weight setup and if I need reticle subtensions I slam the PTL to 10x and get my holds.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_20170617_181835.jpg
    IMG_20170617_181835.jpg
    307.5 KB · Views: 363
  • Like
Reactions: donho00
#41
Goldbears93 said:
Hi there!

Just got a new custom made 18” AR-10 in .308 about a month ago, and I am torn on what scope I want to throw on it!

I live in Texas and This gun will primarily be used for hunting whitetail out to about 300 yards. Varmits / pigs out to 600 yards and steel out to about 900 / 1K (I don’t need to hit the steel accurately, just do it for fun)

I have been doing TONS of research and am pretty much stuck between the Nightforce ATACR 4-16x42 f1 and the Nightforce NXS 2.5-10x42.

I have never physically seen or held either of these scopes, and would love to hear from someone that has used them.

I will be walking around the ranch / hunting in a blind / driving around with this rifle so having an overly heavy rifle is less than ideal. It’s at 8 pounds as is, so it won’t be the lightest rifle, and that’s fine, but I certainly don’t want something that it super unwieldy.

Would love to have the ATACR’s 16x, but I hear it’s pretty heavy. Some folks say its perfect for the AR and some say it’s too heavy.

I do love the weight of the NXS, but wish it had just a couple more degrees of magnification.

Fell in love with the Leupold Mark 6 on paper, but after reading too many negative reviews about tracking issues, I decided NF might be the way to go. Not really looking to spend above the ATACR range.

Would love to get yalls thoughts and opinions! Am open to hearing about other scopes that might fit my needs well!

Thank you!!
Click to expand...

I just finished an Aero M5 in .308 and decided to scope it with the Bushnell LRHSi 4.5-18x44 from GA Precision: https://www.gaprecision.net/ga-store/optics.html

They are having one last round before Bushnell discontinues these. At $750 it is arguably one of the best deals in optics right now.
 
#46
Ok. So the Larue QD clamps to a pic rail section in your rifle. The bottom is the manfrotto QD setup?
Is this better then using a saddle type?
 
#49
donho00 said:
Ok. So the Larue QD clamps to a pic rail section in your rifle. The bottom is the manfrotto QD setup?
Is this better then using a saddle type?
Click to expand...
Yes.. As far a this setup vs saddle type? It’s more personal preference. I haven’t tried or use a saddle setup..
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

Tugboater
Nightforce 5-25x56
Replies
7
Views
380
Hi Velocity
H
Scooter1942
Pristine NXS or well used ATACR?
Replies
16
Views
530
K80/6.5
K
Scooter1942
Can't decide which scope/rifle combo I have makes the most sense
Replies
5
Views
315
Simonsza1
Simonsza1
G
Nightforce ATACR 1-8 issues.
Replies
4
Views
501
JWG
J
EastCOYotes
ZEISS LRP S3 4-25 For Hunting?
Replies
23
Views
728
TacticalPlinker
TacticalPlinker
Top Bottom
Back
Home
Forums
Merch
Alerts