Vortex Strike Eagle & recoil

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astocks2622

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Jul 30, 2007
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Soldotna, AK
I'm planning on moving to Alaska sometime this summer, hopefully long-term.
I've been looking at rifles & such and have settled on a 35 Whelen built on a mauser action. I'm not asking for input on cartridge choice or whatever. I know you can only stop a grizzly with a 50 BMG or, if that fails, and airstrike from an AC-130 Spectre Gunship.I'm looking for a hunting rifle, not an "Oh Crap" stopper.
That said, I would like to maximize my ability to put a round into a moving target at close range, just in case.
So my questions revolve around the optics for such a firearm. I'd like to be able to see well enough to be confident making well-rested shots to 400 yards. I also want a 1X minimum magnification to be able to quickly place shots at very short ranges. I'd like illumination, because the times that are best for hunting, are also the times that bears do get out more, and the likelihood of a run-in goes up as the sun starts going down.

so I'm looking for a 1x-? variable power illuminated scope, for less than $600.
I think I've settled on picking up a Vortex Strike Eagle, though I'd like a little more magnification. It seems to have the least cluttered reticle of the 1-6 crowd, and won't break the bank.
Some questions for those with personal experience...
How is it on picking up targets at 3-400 yards at maximum magnification?
Will it stand up to the recoil of something like a 35 whelen?

I've got a Primary Arms 1-8x24 SFP, and really like it for my AR, but I'd be surprised if it could handle the heavier recoil, and the reticle is a little busy for me for hunting. If they dropped the running lead dots, Donut, & ranging on the side, I'd like it better for hunting.

Another question; how well do the 2-7 or 2-8 scopes do for close in shots? will they even focus at less than 20 yards?

Someone needs to make a 1-6 or 1-8 dedicated dangerous game scope. I'd think a lot of guides & those hunting the brush but with opportunities for longer shots would be all over that!
 
A pst 1-4 would fit the bill I think. I have liked mine. It is set up to work up close at 1x and have a usable hold over reticle at 4x. Reticle is lit too, which is nice.

I have taken deer from 20 yards to 250 yards with mine. It is probably my favorite scope unless I need more magnification. It is a very good scope for closer range, say inside 200 yards, but usable beyond that without sacrificing close range work. I have no problem shooting 4 and 5 hundred yard torso size targets on 4x for what that is worth.

Check it out and it may fit what you are after.
 
Thanks. I emailed Vortex to ask about the Strike Eagle, and they said the recoil of the 35 Whelen wouldn't be a problem at all. I found one locally for a screaming deal. The rifle gets here in a week or two, and I can't wait to put it through its paces.
 
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