Rifle Scopes New scope: nightforce or USO?

Iggy

Iggy

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Feb 21, 2010
644
6
Northern California
#1
Next week I'll be ordering a new scope. I was set on ordering this one:

http://swfa.com/US-Optics-32-17x44-SN-3-30mm-Riflescope-P47401.aspx

I don't know if this model is FFP, but at this price should I go with the NF NXS F1? I really like the USO, but if it's not FFP I'm so sure. I am mainly shooting at a range and plan to only buy one scope for a long time. I plan on taking long range classes so I want something I can count on that will last and grow into. Buy once cry one idea, and I would like to keep it around $2200-2600.

Also who has the best prices or free shipping on these scopes?
 
#3
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

Buy once...cry once.

I have both a NF and USO. I like both very much, but my USO in my opinion is a better scope. The glass seems clearer and sharper than the NF, but I have to admit that the turrents are much more positive in feeling on my NF. I'm sure either will fit your needs fine. Good Luck.

B.
 
#4
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

I just went through the same decision and bought a SN-3. I went with the ERGO model though. If you want the NF F1 with the new high speed turrets, sportoptics.com just posted up that they'll be getting a couple in soon so you may want to check them out.
 
#7
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

Iggy,

You will love that scope! Brady with SWFA is a really good guy to deal with, and don't forget Mike with CSTactical, he's right here in No. Cal. (Elk Grove) Both are really cool cats.

I would call them to see what they had in stock before you order, unless you don't mind the wait.

-Pat
 
#9
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

After having 5 SN-3s and 2 F1s, I would take the F1s between the two. Glass was better, had better feeling clicks, had more MOA in a 30mm tube, side parallax adjustment without extra cost, comes with rings and has a true zero stop. The F1 had every option I would want in a scope. A similarly spec'd USO T Pal would run $2586 and then you have to buy rings.

# Base price $2225
# T-Pal Left - Standard Option
# 44mm - Standard Option
# U.S. #3 1/10 MIL - 45.00
# U.S. #3 1/10 MIL - 45.00
# 30mm - Standard Option
# Matte Black Type III Hard Anodizing - Standard Option
# Mil-Scale GAP - 86.00
# 11 Pos Rheostat (Red) - 185.00
# Lo Profile Housing - Standard Option
# Rapid Focus - Standard Option
$2586 *

The only part of the USO I liked better was the GAP reticle but the MLR reticle in the F1 is very usable.

 
#11
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

Both great scopes, its really a personal choice now. I had my USO made with a few personal touches. Can I live without those customizations? yes, but since USO offers those options, and I'm annal like that, I went with it. If you don't need them, either one will be a great choice.
 
#12
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

go with second focal plane if you are going to shoot at known distances.keep the reticle size down.if you are like me and like to range with the reticle go with the uso.love my sn3
 
#13
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 7777</div><div class="ubbcode-body">go with second focal plane if you are going to shoot at known distances.</div></div>
I prefer a FFP scope when shooting known distance targets - especially if they move. Between the two scopes discussed, I would choose the USO. I have no experience with the F1, but the NXS has never really impressed me.
 
#14
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 7777</div><div class="ubbcode-body">go with second focal plane if you are going to shoot at known distances.keep the reticle size down.

</div></div>

Respectfully disagree. If you want to spend this level of $$ on a scope, FFP is the way to go.
 
#16
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Iggy.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Next week I'll be ordering a new scope. I was set on ordering this one:

http://swfa.com/US-Optics-32-17x44-SN-3-30mm-Riflescope-P47401.aspx

I don't know if this model is FFP, but at this price should I go with the NF NXS F1? I really like the USO, but if it's not FFP I'm so sure. I am mainly shooting at a range and plan to only buy one scope for a long time. I plan on taking long range classes so I want something I can count on that will last and grow into. Buy once cry one idea, and I would like to keep it around $2200-2600.

Also who has the best prices or free shipping on these scopes? </div></div>

The thing I don't like about my USO is it's a heavy sucker.On the other hand I could probably throw it off the rooftop and I doubt it would brake.The ERGOS I've looked through had more resolution than my TPAL.I'd pick the EREK looking back in hindsight.

The things I don't like about the NF F1 are the MLR reticle almost seems too small even on 15X.The Illumination is dated IMO,only 5 mils per rev,except the new ones coming out and the mag moves the dioper.Inconveient sometimes when I change mag with the flip open scope caps but not a deal breaker.

I like dealing with Mike at CS tactical.

Hope I helped you with your decsision instead pissing people off
smile.gif
 
#18
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

I've owned both and the NF F1 by far is better IMO.
The glass quality is about the same, the knobs on the NF was better, the NF was about 30% lighter and most importantly to me, I didn't have any quality control issues on the NF (maybe I'm unlucky).

The one thing I liked more about USO was the reticle selection.
 
#20
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

Thanks for all the input!

Now that I know the USO is FFP I am leaning towards that. However, I do like that the NF is lighter. The NF is a 50mm also as opposed to 44 on the USO. Is 6mm going to make that big of a difference?

I was looking on a sites and saw the Premiere line for $100 more. How do those stack up? I definatly cannot afford S&B.
 
#21
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

You will not go wrong with either. They are both well built scopes. There are a few features that I have noticed that I like better with each. For example, I really like the feel of the large magnification ring on the USO and greater amount of elevation in the NF. I'm kinda partial to the NP-R1 reticle also. I wouldn't turn either one of them down.
 
#22
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

The 44mm vs. 50mm objective isn't a big deal; if you think you need a bigger one, you can get a 58mm objective as a no-cost option.

Regarding internal elevation, with the proper rail, it's just not an issue. If you need more, get the 35mm tube.
 
#24
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: paulyosh</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Regarding internal elevation, with the proper rail, it's just not an issue. If you need more, get the 35mm tube.
</div></div>

The 35mm tube adds $80 to the cost and it still doesn't have the 100 MOA of the NF. It's around 80 MOA if I remember correctly from mine. Granted 80 or even 65 MOA should be enough to get a .308 to 1000 with a 20 MOA base, I would rather have more than less.

Iggy, what's your price range? Also having had 2 PR scopes I would still take the NF over it and save yourself $500.
 
#25
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

My price range is $2600 max.

At this point I'm still not sure. I've had the chance to look through a NF and I was really impressed with the glass, but not so impressed with how big the turret knobs were. They seemed to portude a lot. Is that the same with the USO?
 
#27
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have the ERGO version of that scope. I really don't have any complaints about it.

I wish it would focus at close range so I could do indoor dry firing, but it's really not a problem. I just sight out a window. </div></div>

I'm sure the neighbors love you for that! "hey honey, the asshole across the street is scoping us again!"
grin.gif
 
#28
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rafael</div><div class="ubbcode-body">That's one nice feature fo the USO EREK knob......it has a very low profile.

</div></div>

It's probably about 3/8" shorter than the NF knob but it also adds $175 to the price of the scope. Also the new NF knob gives you 10 mils per turn where the EREK gives you 9 mils. The NF also has a true zero stop and is fairly easy to zero and set.
 
#29
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

Rob;
I enjoy your posts, and gain alot from the excellent info and experience you bring. Thanks for that.

Your post would seem to indicate that the EREK is an added expense where the NF zero-stop is not. From what I have found on the web, the NF zero-stop adds about the same increase in cost.

I have heard, over and over, people saying the USO EREK does not have a "true" zero-stop yet just about everyone uses them as a zero-stop. I find it easy to set, or alter. The knob stops tight at the same point every time I use it, without fail. USO has no problem with the EREK being used in this manner.

I guess that the fact that the EREK does not meet some arbritrary definition of the term "zero-stop" somehow makes a great deal of difference when one is hawking optics.... even if the EREK accomplishes the deed very well.

The 10 mils of the NF over the USO 9 mils is certainly nice, no doubt, though not a major factor in the decision where I making the choice. I cannot imagine getting lost having to add 9 to the represented number on the second rev. Still, it is a bit easier.
 
#30
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

JUST ORDERED MINE TODAY AND NOW FOR THE WAIT
SN-3 T-PAL 3.2-17x44mm

T-Pal Left - Standard Option
44mm - Standard Option
EREK 1/10 MIL - 175.00
U.S. #3 1/10 MIL - 45.00
30mm - Standard Option
Matte Black Type III Hard Anodizing - Standard Option
Mil-Scale MPR - 86.00
11 Pos Rheostat (Green) - 185.00


GO TO rwsnydergunsmithing.com AND PUT IN FOR A QUOTE YOU WILL BE HAPPY YOU DID!!!
 
#31
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

The ERGOS I've looked through had more resolution than my TPAL
WHY WOULD THAT BE IS THE T-PAL A BIT OLDER OR IS IT A SIDE EFFECT OF THE DIFFRANCE IN THE WAY OF ADJUSTMENT ?
 
#33
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: hk9176251</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The ERGOS I've looked through had more resolution than my TPAL
WHY WOULD THAT BE IS THE T-PAL A BIT OLDER OR IS IT A SIDE EFFECT OF THE DIFFRANCE IN THE WAY OF ADJUSTMENT ? </div></div>

T-PAL uses an additional lens. I believe the difference is supposed to be 3%.
 
#34
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rafael</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Rob;
I enjoy your posts, and gain alot from the excellent info and experience you bring. Thanks for that.

Your post would seem to indicate that the EREK is an added expense where the NF zero-stop is not. From what I have found on the web, the NF zero-stop adds about the same increase in cost.

I have heard, over and over, people saying the USO EREK does not have a "true" zero-stop yet just about everyone uses them as a zero-stop. I find it easy to set, or alter. The knob stops tight at the same point every time I use it, without fail. USO has no problem with the EREK being used in this manner.

I guess that the fact that the EREK does not meet some arbritrary definition of the term "zero-stop" somehow makes a great deal of difference when one is hawking optics.... even if the EREK accomplishes the deed very well.

The 10 mils of the NF over the USO 9 mils is certainly nice, no doubt, though not a major factor in the decision where I making the choice. I cannot imagine getting lost having to add 9 to the represented number on the second rev. Still, it is a bit easier.</div></div>

Thanks Raf.

He's talking about the F1 and the zero stop comes standard on it for the $2290 price. No extra cost.

Actually the NF zero stop hits a solid stop built into it which you set. Metal on metal stoping the knob from turning. You can set as many or as few clikcs you want below the zero of the rifle very easily. It's not bottoming out the erector when you get to the bottom like the EREK does after using the center screw then doing the fine zero with the knob itself. My opinion, it's better to have a true zero stop.

Just mentioning the mils per turn for the OP as he is the one spending the money. Good to havbe all the info before making the decision.

Honestly, I think he should save up a few hundred more and get an S&B
wink.gif
But my next choice would be the NF F1.
 
#35
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

Yes, sir....I know you are partial to S&B.
I have not ever had one in my hands....but with all the positive feedback heard so often and from so many; I will certainly give it a good look when I have a chance.

I did not know the F1 came standard with the Zero-Stop, certainly something to consider.

Yes, I am familiar with the differences on the zero-stop....but I have yet to hear of anyone having a problem with the fact that there is not a hard limiter on the USO. This seems to work perfectly well no matter which method is employed.

Decade counts per rev is certainly preferred, but not a deal breaker.
I do wish the EREK were supplied with more choices in detent rings. Would like to see the 1/4 MOA/IPHY version with 120 clicks per rev, and the 1/10 mil with 100. A 100 click version would be acceptable for both mil and MOA....to keep the development costs down. Or, if they would make a 1/3 MOA/IPHY EREK the current 90 click detent would be fine.

In the end it's all about making the customer happy....and USO did a fine job with me, even with the current detent ring.
laugh.gif
 
#36
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Iggy.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Another quick question... Why does Lowlight always seem to have NF scopes in his videos? Is he sponsored or is that who he chooses to spend his money on? </div></div>

Maybe, maybe not. I have no idea.
I trust that he would not be using them unless he thought they do the job well.
 
#38
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

With the Nightforce zero stop will it reset the the turret like USO? Meaning when the zero stop is set will I have max elevation available like with the EREK knob on the USO?
 
#39
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

After reading a lot I am leaning more towards a NF now. I can't seem to find that many differences between the two scope. Besides looks, which I think go to the USO, I might as well save some money.

The NF is lighter has the same features that I am looking for, so is there something that sets the USO apart with a big advantage? I know they are both very durable, but is one more durable in particular?

My gut says USO, but I have a feeling that I should go with a NF....

Any more thoughts?
 
#40
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

What's there to think about?
You can get a similarly specced NF F1 with rings for about $500 less than a USO.

The only reason why the USO would be superior is if you wanted a custom reticle, custom knobs or green illumination.
 
#41
Re: New scope: nightforce or USO?

I was in the same situation 2 months ago. My buddy had just bought the USO from his range shop in Va Beach. They had 2 more in stock, both MOA. I decided I wanted mil/mil. To get the USO would have been 3-4 months to order. I got the F1 from Europtic the next day thru Alex there. And the F1 is less expensive once you start adding ERGO and TPAL, etc... and smaller. I love mine, MLR reticle, and I have the rings available to sell since I mounted mine on a LaRue tactical mount. For me, the eye relief on the F1 is better than the USO. Both have beautiful glass. I don't think I could physically discern a difference. Good luck! Enjoy!
 
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