Rifle Scopes R700 tactical: scope options

[Phoenix8513]

I picked up a R700 sps tactical in .308 for cheap. I have been wanting to get back into target shooting and this just made sense to buy it up.

It has a low end ncstar on it that has to go.

My plans for target shooting only between 100-500 yards and usually spending time between 100-300. I would like to keep the scope cost around 400-700 not including rings and a base.

I have a line-up on a Zeiss Conquest HD5 2-10 9x42 for around 500 and its brand new. From what I have seen/read this is more a hunting scope and not maybe the best option for target shooting. What do you all think? Any experiences?
My buddy can get me a deal on Zeiss scopes

What kind of other options do you suggest?

 

[CMH]

Used SWFA SS 10X HD with mil-quad reticle.

Vortex Viper PST 2.5-10X44, 2.5-10X32, or 4-16X50, depending on whether you want to buy used or new, FFP/SFP, etc.

SWFA SS 3-15, or one of their non-HD fixed powers. The non-HD fixed powers leave some more room to purchase ammo or components if you reload.

 

[fdkay]

weaver grand slam tactical 3-10x, when on sale, which is every other month or so

 

[roggom]

It really depends on what you mean by target shooting. Most shooting done on the site is field type, so dial for elevation at targets of various ranges.

If you will be at a stationary location shooting at fixed targets. Then the Ziess will be fine. Also that scope will be perfect for hunting, so your rifle can be used as dual duty Hunter/shooter. 1/4 moa will give you finer adjustments if your goal is x ring type shooting.

What the Ziess lacks in features, it makes up with superior glass quality.

If it were me I would take that Zeiss over any of the other any of the other recommended. Heck, your getting that scope $200 under the "open box" price. You better be careful or your PM box is going to get flooded with guys wanting a deal.

 

[Phoenix8513]

Buddy can only buy one a year at the special pricing.
He does not shoot or hunt so I think Ill be getting a new Zeiss every year

 

[Phoenix8513]

Senior Chief, Ill mostly be stationary either on a bench or prone shooting paper down range.

It really depends on what you mean by target shooting. Most shooting done on the site is field type, so dial for elevation at targets of various ranges.

If you will be at a stationary location shooting at fixed targets. Then the Ziess will be fine. Also that scope will be perfect for hunting, so your rifle can be used as dual duty Hunter/shooter. 1/4 moa will give you finer adjustments if your goal is x ring type shooting.

What the Ziess lacks in features, it makes up with superior glass quality.

If it were me I would take that Zeiss over any of the other any of the other recommended. Heck, your getting that scope $200 under the "open box" price. You better be careful or your PM box is going to get flooded with guys wanting a deal.

 

[roggom]

There is nothing wrong with the other recommended scopes for entry level. As they are mil/mil and have features desirable for long range precision.
In my opinion, glass quality will trump features anytime. You will have a sharper image with less aberration and more contrast, also the resale value of that Zeiss is much better than any of the other scopes in the sub $700 class.

I would not think twice.

 

[Phoenix8513]

So still looking for the "right" scope.. SOOOO many choices

Decided with my eyes I need a bit more magnification than what I thought.. I did pick up a vortex pst 4-16, (for sale) but never even got it on the rifle as I shot a friends with the same scope and liked it but two things came out.. I dont need illumination and more magnification would be great.

I will only have this rifle at the range and shoot mostly off a bench but occasional prone and to shoot some prairie dogs/ coyotes back home occasionally. I prefer the MOA style reticles, I really never have used MRAD so I cant say anything if Id be ok with that.


Im looking at these options now...
Sightron SIII 8-32x56 in MOA-2

Burris XTRII 5-25 but not liking the mil dot reticle and that it is illuminated, guess maybe they are going to offer more choices soon

Burris XTRII 8-40 The reticle looks odd to me but I can see the benefits of it

SWFA HD 5-20 non illuminated guess I could adapt to the mil-quad reticle

Id like to keep it at 1k, and used is ok with me to get into that price range. Any other good choices?

 

[fdkay]

Don't become too enamored with high magnification.
For your stated purpose the 5-20 or 5-25 will be more than enough unless you are getting into F Class then the 32x or 40x top end makes sense.
As far as I know, but I could be wrong, all of the XTR II scopes (with the exception of the AR scopes), have the same enhanced mil-dot reticle. It is a VERY serviceable reticle.

In all reality, something in the the 3-15 or 4-16 range will do everything you are asking. Keep in mind the army uses a 10x on the M24 and the marines use a 3-12 on the M40. They both engage targets well in excess of 500 yards.

My vote goes to the following in no particular order:
SWFA 3-15
Burris XTR II 3-15 or 4-20
Weaver Tactical EMDR 3-15
Bushnell 3-12
Sightron 2.5-17.5x S Tac (SFP)
PST 6-24 FFP
SIII 6-24 FFP

 

[Phoenix8513]

I did shot with a 4-16 and just didnt like the picture at 500 yards, hence a bit more magnification wanted. I would also like to stick with SFP as I wont be needing to "range" the targets normally.

 

[fdkay]

FFP has less to with with ranging and more to do with accurate hold overs, leads and windage hold offs.
I have been very pleased with my S Tac.

 

[LowTwelve]

I sent you a PM about a scope I am selling. If you are not interested in a ranging reticle, or FFP, and are wanting around 20x on the top end, this may suit you. I believe I have this at a very fair price point.
Best of luck in your endeavors.

 

[tylerw02]

Get a Bushnell Elite Tactical fixed 10xwith a mil reticle and mil knobs for about $200. That will be all you need for 500 yard shooting. Its not ideal, but it will be more useful than a hunting scope. If you have more budget, consider a Mark 4, one of the nicer Bushnells, SWFA, etc.