Scope Advice

[Chevelle72TX]

I'd like some input as to which scope I should get for my Ruger KM77VT MKII .308.

I'm looking for a relatively long-range power of at least 20x, and I'd like to keep it under $350. I'm currently considering a Weaver 6-24x42 Classic V24 from SWFA for $330.

Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Ben

[.41Dave]

Weavers are good scopes for the price you pay. Be sure that 20x magnification is what you really want. At 20x, you will only be able to shoot from a solid rest on the bench. Unless you are shooting varmints from 500+ yards, 20x will likely be too much. Also remember, you pay for several things in a scope, including:

Magnification
Objective size
Precise adjustments/repeatability
Resolution/Optical quality
Durability/Ruggedness
Brightness

At any price point, To get more of one thing, you will sacrifice on one or more of the others.

[Chevelle72TX]

Thanks for the reply Dave. This is my first true varmint rifle. I've ordered a Harris bi-pod for it, and will mostly be shooting it from a prone position, I'd imagine. The rifle itself is very heavy and freestanding shots would be difficult regardless of the magnification. Shots will likely average 250 yards and beyond. What magnification and/or scope would you suggest?

[OAKVILLE SHOOTER]

I have three Simmons Whitetail Classic 6.5-20x50. One on a Rem. 788 22-250 one on a Rem 788 .222 and even on on my 10-22. They only come in black granite finish, but I like it. Clarity is good, seems to track good through magnification range, adj. paralux, 1/4 moa. Midway has them on sale again this month for $99.99. Regular price $219.99. I think they run them on sale every othe month or so. Also, claim to be a midway exclusive, but I have seen Natchez run the same scope for $99.99.

[.41Dave]

I tend to prefer a sharper image to higher magnification. A good rule of thumb is what you can hit at 50 yards with iron sights. If you can hit your intended target with iron sights at 50 yards, then you only need 10x magnification at 500 yards to still hit the same target.

Reticle choice is also important. I don't like range finding reticles on variable power scopes. I like a simple uncluttered reticle. My choice would probably be the Sightron SII 4-16x42
http://www.swfa.com/pc-10605-1514-new-sightron-4-16x42-sii-riflescope.aspx
It's about $20 higher than your budget of $350, but I think it's worth it.

Another good choice would be the Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42. The Ballistic plex is nice and unobtrusive.
http://www.swfa.com/pc-8082-203-burris-45-14x42-fullfield-ii-rifle-scope.aspx

If you like a Mil-dot reticle, Try the Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x40
http://www.swfa.com/pc-1892-220-nikon-45-14x40-buckmaster-riflescope.aspx

All that said, the Weaver you were looking at is a fine choice for your intended purpose.