Optic for 16” 6.5 CM AR10

[jumrobe]

I’ve got a 16” AR10 in 6.5 Creedmoor that I shoot in some local gas gun matches. Targets are 200-1000, so I want decent magnification, but I don’t want/need more more than 25x top end.

This gun currently wears a Zeiss LRP S3 6-36 that is destined for a 22” AR10 in 6.5 CM when the Bartlein barrel finally comes in, so I’m evaluating what glass I want on this gun once the 22” upper is done.

Budget is up to $2000, but realistically would like to keep it around $1500. I’m thinking I want something in the 3/4-18/21 mag ranges to keep the gun somewhat handy, by still capable of making reliable hits at the extended ranges this barrel and cartridge combo offer.

So far my list consists of
- Leupold Mk 4HD 4.5-18 PR2
- Bushnell DMRIII 3-21
- Steiner T6xi 3-18
- Athlon Ares ETR 3-18 (on sale at Midway)

Currently leaning toward the Leupold because of the glass quality for the price.

Is there anything else in this mag range and budget I should be considering?

Attached is a photo of the gun with the current scope.

 

[mi650]

If you're happy with the S3 that you have, why not a 4-25?

 

[jumrobe]

If you're happy with the S3 that you have, why not a 4-25?

I have had the thought of getting the 4-25, but ideally I’d like to shave a little weight off the current setup as well. The 4-25 is nearly the same weight as the 6-36.

 

[NewsShooter]

I'd get the Athlon, I have a few, cronus, ares, midas, they have all been reliable for me. At that price I might buy one just because it's a great deal. Just wanted to add an a bit. Was a rimfire match and someone got behind my rifle to see how a begara 22 trigger felt. Shot a mag at a few different targets then asked what scope was on it? It's a Cronus that I've had for awhile, it's been on my match centerfire and now on my bergara 22. He shoots high end scopes and like the scope and reticle, I think he had ZCO on is 22 that day, and was surprised to learn it was a Cronus.