Rifle Scopes Opinions on Optics for new 700 SPS Tactical 223

James McKenna

Private
Minuteman
Apr 2, 2011
2
0
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Califronia/Colorado
My first post here on the forum. I have been on the Smith and Wesson forum for a number of years, so I am familiar with the wealth of knowledge available. After viewing this forum over a period of time, in conjunction with information from a member friend, I realize this is a quality site with knowledgeable members. I am pleased to have joined.

I just purchased a new Remington 700 SPS Tactical in 223. I wanted a fast handling bolt gun. I imagine you are already questioning my choice of caliber....why not a 308? Briefly, I have a 308 700 VS, new to me in the mid-90's, as well as another VS, same vintage, in 223. Each came with the same factory H-S stocks, which fit me well, but as you are undoubtedly aware, both possess 26 in, heavy barrels (a good thing) and are neither fast handling or portable for that matter- hence, the new gun. I gave a thought to just removing the LR scope, professionally cutting the barrel, etc, but after thinking about that for about 5 seconds, decided against it. As stated, this new rifle was purchased to fill the need for a fast handling, short range, bolt gun to compliment my Colt Match Target Heavy Barrel AR and a 223 will work for me for that purpose.

My current VS 223 has a 1-12 twist and I liked the fact that this new rifle is 1-9. It will allow me to use up to 69 grain (ordered a bunch of Sierra's) bullets, which will provide me with a little more penetration and punch.

Again, I wish to build it as a short range, urban, tactical weapon and as such I feel I will need a considerably different scope than I use on my VS'. Both VS' have Leupold LR Target scopes. I want a relatively compact scope to complement the design of the new rifle. Most important is a clear, bright image with a wide field of view. Power is not as important to me, with perhaps a max of 10x? I would like to stick with the versatility of a variable over a fixed but that is why I am posting, to get your input. Finally, the rifle is a relatively inexpensive firearm which I plan on handling differently (rougher) than my others, so a high end unit will not be necessary or desired for that matter. I have no idea about rings either, so your thought on them would also be welcomed.

Sorry for the length of my first post, but to get an expert opinion, the above information will undoubtedly be required. Looking forward to any and all views.
 
Re: Opinions on Optics for new 700 SPS Tactical 223

Not desiring a "high end" unit but want decent quality, wide FOV but still compact, and good clarity and durability. I'm sure you also want it to track flawlessly.

Easy. SWFA SS 3-9x42. Use the discount code "sshide" for 10% off and it will run you $550.

You should be able to use low rings. I prefer Badger Ordnance for individual rings, but whatever you get just make sure they are of good quality. Seekins are another good option.

Also, don't think you're limited to 69gr. projectiles with a 1/9 twist in a bolt gun. Try some of the larger ones. You may be surprised.

Best of luck and welcome!
 
Re: Opinions on Optics for new 700 SPS Tactical 223

Redmanss, you beat me to it. As I was reading his request thats the exact scope I was thinking of for his SPS. Jimmy, you can't even go wrong with one of the cheaper SS fixed 10's with rear or turret housing adjustments. All SS are good for the money. And when you are done with it can sell it and get most of your oney back fro the next upgrade. Many of us started out with one before someone on the Hide shook our hands without washing them and we caught the S&B, Premier, IOR, or US Optics bug. Oh by the way...never shake someones hand on the Hide....that bug is fatal. LOL. Drains your bank account like two ex-wives.
 
Re: Opinions on Optics for new 700 SPS Tactical 223

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jimmymac46</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> As stated, this new rifle was purchased to fill the need for a fast handling, short range, bolt gun </div></div>

Leupold 2.5X8x36,... will do everything you need done and then some.
 
Re: Opinions on Optics for new 700 SPS Tactical 223

Jimmymac46,

EGW makes a good base cheep ~30.00 and there HD line is worth the extra coin ~60.00 and it sits a little lower. Burris X-treme rings will run you about 60 and were all I used until recently. Now I really like Warne permanent lows (213m if memory serves for 30mm tubes) will run in the 35-40 dollar range and are (IMHO)well made and better than the Burris rings.

As for the glass, everyone has their own favorite. I like the old Nikon Tactical 2.5-10x, used these will run 500-600 on the forum’s or E-bay. Vortex PST 4-16x is another I like and the second focal plane will run you 600-700 or the 2.5-10x will be about 100 cheaper. Super Sniper is another option but one I have not used. If you don’t mind capped turrets a lot of doors will open in the 250-600 dollar range. You will want something that has mil-dots or a MOA version for wind holds as dialing is slow and by the time you dial the wind will be different, at least in my area that’s how it works out...

In the 223 tactical you will find the 69 grain bullets work great. At 25.3 grains varget with an OAL of 2.250-2.260 will get you ~2830 fps and in mine will cut 3/8” 5-shot groups. The 75-77BTHP will also work but, at least in my Rem Tac, the accurate load (node) tends to be a bit slow @ mid to high 2500’s. Berger 70 vld works well as it can be pushed almost as fast as the 69’s but retains the BC of the 77smk. Another plus is you can seat the bullets into the lands if you choose and still be mag box friendly. If your HS stock fits you well, it would be a good swap as the stock on the tac is weak and will touch the barrel when a bipod is used. You won’t notice this until you shoot beyond 100 yards, then you will start to see group stringing.

In the gunsmithing section there is a few good treads on bedding. In my experience with the HS stock’s the results are worth it. Also, once done, I have yet to have other Remington factory rifles not fit once it has been bedded, so no worries about it only fitting the barreled action you originally used.

If you use a torque wrench on the action screws be careful not to over torque on the factory bottom metal, 35 to 40 inch pounds are about all you will want to use. Galling or cracking will occur if you go much heavier… ask me how I found that out!
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Re: Opinions on Optics for new 700 SPS Tactical 223

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jimmymac46</div><div class="ubbcode-body">My desired budget is $600/700 with rings and bases. Possible? </div></div>


You can't beat the quality and ruggeness of the SWFA SS 3-9X42 for your purposes. I've got two of them on semiautos with a combined round count of about 3500 rounds fired in the desert in snow, dust and mud. No problems at all.