Nikko 6-24x 44mm vs Hawke 6-24x 44mm

[This Guy]

I've been looking into a new scope for my 308 and I have a Leupold 3-9x40 and love the quality and clarity but I would like more magnification for hunting and punching paper. I've looked into both these scopes, the Nikko and the Hawke, and I need some help breaking the tie. The exact models are the:

Hawke Varmint SF Rifle Scope 6-24x 44mm Side Focus 1/2 Mil Dot Reticle

Nikko Stirling Platinum Nighteater Rifle Scope 6-24x 44mm Side Focus LRX Reticle Matte

 

[Sock Puppet]

I bought a Howa rifle package that came with a Nikko Stirling Nighteater. I sold the scope before firing a single round through the rifle. Optical quality is decent at best. I belive both scopes you're looking at are Chinese made and are probably of similar quality.

It took me years to realize that cheap scopes are not a good value even though they cost of entry seems cheap.

If you're set on that magnification range, I would look very hard at this scope:

http://www.natchezss.com/product.cfm?contentID=productDetail&brand=WE&prodID=WE800710&prodTitle=Weaver 6-24x50 Classic Extreme Riflescope Illuminated Dual-X Reticle Matte

You should also take a look at the Vortex and Sightron options. Yes, they are all more money, but you'll end up with a better scope with a better warranty and known support.

 

[This Guy]

Have you heard anything about the Vortex crossfire series? I found a 6-18x44 that really looks like a good scope and for $220 the price is right.

 

[MIL-DOT]

I can also vouch for the Weavers, they are very solid scopes, especially for the money.
Also, consider the Bushnell Elite series. Good scopes,good glass, and excellent customer service.
Here's one to consider, and I've seen them noticably cheaper a few times.
http://swfa.com/Bushnell-10x40-Elite-Tactical-Rifle-Scope-P48273.aspx
Natchez is out of stock, but lists it at $219.

 

[Sock Puppet]

Have you heard anything about the Vortex crossfire series? I found a 6-18x44 that really looks like a good scope and for $220 the price is right.

I seem to remember they had some issues with the Crossfire line when they first came out. I think they have been reintroduced and are supposedly much improved, but have no personal experience.

What exactly is your budget?

 

[This Guy]

Probably no more than $400, I want a good sturdy scope that will hold zero and last without breaking bank. I'm not rough on my equipment and take care of things. I dont need all the bells and whistles. The longest shot I will ever take might be 400 yards, but I like to be able to zoom in on what I'm shooting.

 

[Sock Puppet]

$400 will buy you a Vortex Viper 4-12X40 which is a fantastic scope, and significantly better than the other options you listed.

 

[Jaxondog]

With a $400 budget, the one Sock Puppet referred is the one i would choose. Stay away from anything marked "China". You want regret it.