NF 4-20x50 or 5-25x56

[ltdmstr]

Currently building a new 223 bolt action and trying to decide on a scope for it. I already have a 6.5 w/NF 5-25x56 (Mil-Xt) and thinking of getting a NF 4-20x50 for the 223. Since the 223 probably won't be used beyond 600 and mostly 200-300, I'm thinking the 4-20 would be a good choice. But, seems like reviews on it are mixed. Price of the two is about the same, and although the 5-25 is on backorder at the moment, I'm not going to have the rifle for a couple months anyway. I'm leaning toward the 4-20, but something tells me the 5-25 is the better choice. If someone has both, or has used both, I'd like to hear what you recommend. Thanks.

 

[Rob01]

Why would you get 5x less on top where it can be used? The 5-25 is the easy answer. I have a 5-30x on my .223 bolt gun. You can always dial it down.

 

[ltdmstr]

Well, I rarely max out the magnification. Usually I'm somewhere between 16-20. Also figured a wider field of view at the low end, plus slightly smaller and lighter (although not sure that really matters). But, having said that, I'm still leaning toward the 5-25. Just wondering if there's a reason to go the other way. Probably not.

 

[Rob01]

1x difference at the bottom means nothing for FOV. You will rarely use that low anyways so why worry about it? You use between 16-20, as a lot of people do, but if needed you dial up to spot or see hits or for a more precise shot. Way more pros for a 5-25 over a 4-20. Your money though.

 

[ltdmstr]

Valid points. And I agree the smart money is on the 5-25.