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

[Goldbears93]

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!!

 

[Subwrx300]

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!

 

[Subwrx300]

BTW, welcome to the Hide! Here's another pic in better light (different stock).

 

[b6graham]

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

 

[Bowhntr4life]

Pm me if interested

 

[Dthomas3523]

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.

 

[adluginb]

I’ve got a 2.5-10 NXS on my .308 and think it’s just perfect.

 

[Dthomas3523]

I owned an Atacr 4-16, and to me the weight wasn’t that bad. It “looks” much heavier than it is, as it’s built like a small tank.

 

[Bandit31]

Minox Zp5 3-15 would be another good scope. Amazing glass, larger field of view, slightly larger and like an ounce heavier. But the Atacr's are tits also. I've been more than pleased with mine.

 

[samnev]

I had a USO ST 10 on my AR 10 and found, at least for me, 10X just wasn't enough magnification At anything over 300 yards. So I'd vote for the ATACR 4-16X.

 

[koshkin]

Also consider Leupold's Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44. this is a really nice gas gun scope.

ILya

 

[USMC 308]

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.

 

[Subwrx300]

Ummmm........did you read the last sentence of his post????

Missed that; @Dthomas3523 Thank you for pointing that out. I'll pull that post. Carry on!

 

[Black max]

I have 2 4-16 f1's on a couple large frame gas guns, they fit my needs perfectly. Great glass, tracking is spot on and they are Nightforce tough.

 

[VegasHKShooter]

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.

 

[Goldbears93]

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!!

 

[Dthomas3523]

No, you're fine.

And you should be able to make an offhand shot with ~10lb rifle.

 

[Goldbears93]

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!

 

[Dthomas3523]

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.

 

[Subwrx300]

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

Nice rig! Is that an Aero M5E1? Do you still have your ATACR?

 

[Dthomas3523]

Nice rig! Is that an Aero M5E1? Do you still have your ATACR?

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.

 

[DuneShoot]

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!

 

[hereinaz]

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.

 

[Maelstrom]

I am not sure if there are any left but take a look at https://www.snipershide.com/shooting/threads/gap-deal-on-bushnell-lrhs-scopes.6875083/ especially if you want to hunt with it. I have 2 on order. One for my AR10 and the other for my .22-250 varmint rifle.

 

[ExT]

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

 

[stwcattle]

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"

 

[donho00]

I am using an ATACR 16x on my Noveske N6. With a 45degree RMR for close fun.

 

[CSTactical]

Both the ATACR 4-16 F1 and the SHV 4-14 F1 has been popular more recently with the gas gun crowd, the 2.5-10's have not been as popular but is also a good choice.

 

[donho00]

 

[roamin]

VX6 HD 19oz

 

[Vargmat]

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.

 

[Rhed]

View attachment 6925620

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..

 

[2Akeepers]

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.

 

[Dag34]

Another vote for the 4-16 ATACR, followed by the 4-14 SHV.

 

[Strykervet]

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?

 

[donho00]

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..

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?

 

[Rhed]

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?

I’ve set my rmr to 50 yards..

 

[donho00]

It clears perfectly!!! What stock is that? I like it. I was going to use a 308 PRS I had layng around. But I like your setup

 

[Rhed]

It clears perfectly!!! What stock is that? I like it. I was going to use a 308 PRS I had layng around. But I like your setup

https://www.larue.com/products/larue-tactical-risrtm-ctr-combo/

 

[Squibbler]

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.

 

[Cotay]

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!!

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.

 

[donho00]

https://www.larue.com/products/larue-tactical-risrtm-ctr-combo/

OK. its a CTR with Larue riser. Most likely a no go. It wont clear the longer charging handle of the AR10. I have a A2 buffer and the PRS already. But the rifle with the ATACR is mid 12lbs already. I was trying to look for lighter options

 

[shax2lex]

I was going through the same process but I got the Bushnell LRHSi too. Problem solved.

 

[donho00]

I’ve set my rmr to 50 yards..

View attachment 6926556View attachment 6926557View attachment 6926558

What QD is that for the Manfrotto ball? How heavy is the HK and ATACR setup?

 

[Rhed]

What QD is that for the Manfrotto ball? How heavy is the HK and ATACR setup?

Sorry, I don’t know what the total weight of this setup. Though, it’s fairly light to me. And this is the mount.. https://www.larue.com/category/larue-mounts/accessory-mounts/manfrotto-adapter/

 

[donho00]

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?

 

[Rhed]

Yes

 

[donho00]

Yes

Thanks!!

 

[Rhed]

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?

Yes.. As far a this setup vs saddle type? It’s more personal preference. I haven’t tried or use a saddle setup..

 

[Jerdie16]

Arguments for or against the 4-16X50 F1 vs the 42mm?