Rifle Scopes Online Scope Shopping Advice

[WilsonLover]

Hi all,

Looking for some advice as I’m a relatively new bolt action rifle shooter.

My current setup is a Howa 1500 20” Varminter in .308 with a fixed 10x scope in mil/mil(SWFA).

I’m looking to upgrade the optic on the rifle as I’d really like something with variable power and more features.

I don’t plan on shooting it further than 1200 yards at the very farthest.

While I have the funds to go all-out and buy something tier one, I’d like to keep things more affordable ($1200 max out the door)

Some features I’d like:
-Locking turrets
-Illumination
-MRAD Christmas Tree reticle
-Accurate tracking
-Zero Stop (ideally one that doesn’t impede on elevation travel)
-Enough elevation to dial for 1200 yards without a holdover (using a 20MOA base).
-Great glass (by 2020 standards)

What are some brands and optics I should consider?

I’ve been looking at the 5-25 Viper PST Gen 2, Athlon Ares BTR and Cronus, Eotech Vudu 3.5x18.

I have very little experience with precision rifle optics so I’d appreciate the help.

Thanks!

 

[bgavin]

Call one or all of site sponsors like
Cameraland NY
Liberty Optics
CS Tactical

I’ve bought from and been happy with all 3. They will steer you in the right direction inside your budget.

Athlon Cronus and ETR are good ones.

 

[Shootindave]

A few places have the Athlon Helos BTR 6-24-50 clearanced out real low. The place I ordered from had the Mil/Mil on sale for $360 shipped. I should have it on Weds.

I am not sure what the rules are for posting links to non-sponsored websites on this forum. But just check the usual places.

 

[gr8fuldoug]

Our pleasure to discuss options with you, give us a call

 

[Rthur]

Might add a price range.
2020 great glass will be up there in price.

R

 

[MCHOG]

I would probably steer clear of Vortex unless you go for a used Razor Gen II (which would check all of your boxes).

 

[longshot2000]

I am going to give you a reply, like I am reading your mind, but more over, reading what you wrote. I heard casual use out to 1,200 yards and your comparison of brands you are looking at makes me give you a reply that is not "if budget were no object."

I like the PST in the modest price range. We like the more expensive Razor in lower magniifactions, but not a fan of Razor in higher magnifications. We have heard enough comments about "great warranty replacements" to not carry the higher magnication Razors. We have done a good business with PST and PST Gen2, and not found the same level or return, and, found great value (price / quality).

Nightforce SHV is worth considering. It has all the great glass of the NXS / NX8 line, but less of the expense of being being built to withstand the harshness of battle. If you want to go up a little, the NX8 in 2.5-20x is a great scope, but a little pricier that others in your market, but should be on your list at the top end, in my opinion.

Steiner T seriies is worth considering, but probably a little higher on the budget range.

We have been very impressed with Athlon, and many great reviews on this forum. We don't do a huge busness, but that which we do find very happy and repeat customers.

The higher-end Burris and Bushnell might be worth a look. We do not do much with either brand, but I did like the XTR when I looked at it last.

My guess is you will find a good scope with the PST or the Athlon. Hardest part will be finding one available.

From a commercial side, I am happy to talk or DM if my firm can be of help in you deciding and purchasing. I would very much like to move a few PST 3-15x44 EBR-7C scopes as well as NX8 2.5-20x, and I think our 'hide pricing on all Nightforce products is pretty darn good.