Rifle optics questions.

[BATTLESUIT]

I'm just trying to get into rifles. To get into rifles is to get into optics, which I know less than nothing about. Every scope has a bunch of numbers next to it and I have no idea what they mean. It's obviously not as simple as a 4X scope, or 6X scope. Can someone explain to me in simple terms what these numbers mean so I know what each scope offers?

I'd also be interested to see what scopes people in the know think are the best for a Remington 700 calibered for .308. I'm looking for an inexpensive scope with durability being my primary concern. I've heard that Nikon and Bushnell are good choices. What do you think?

 

[saturno_v]

A quick primer


For example a 3-9X 40 scope means: variable power (from 3X to 9X) and 40 mm objective lens.

What do you need your scope for??? For general purpose hunting and occasional target shooting (not very long range) the 3-9X 40 scopes are good..they are currently the "average" every day scopes.

You want clear optics and quality reticle movement for reliable zero holding and "repeatability"

With few exceptions, today's common inexpensive brands such as Tasco, Bushnell, Simmons, all cheap scopes that can be had in the $30-40 range are ok for the average shooter....I would not use them for serious competitions or expecting to work for decades trouble free...


In my opinion, the best deal out there are the Centerpoint scopes...lifetime warranty, reliable, very clear optics and feature-packed compared to other inexpensive choices.

For $69 at Wal Mart you can buy a 4-16X 40 Centerpoint illuminated Mil-Dot reticle (illuminated for better and faster low light target acquisition and Mil-Dot reticle for range evaluation) adjustable Parallax (reduces reticle "floating" around) and variable eye relief (the distance between your eye and the focused reticle), zero locking rings and "tuneable" turret adjustment crispness. And they look very nice to boot.

A similar scope for other brands and in other stores would cost at least $200-250.

The package includes flip-open covers, rings and soft case.

One of my range buddies use one on a Remington 700 .308 and he is very happy with it....I have 4 of them all flawless. Other THR members have them and had no issues.

 

[lej]

SWFA SS 10x42 Tactical Riflescope

http://www.swfa.com/pc-4305-2760-swfa-ss-10x42-tactical-riflescope.aspx

 

[ojibweindian]

The Bushnel Elite series of scopes are excellent buys, as are the Nikon Monarch and Buckmaster. For do-anything range of power, a 3-9x by 40 is perfect.

Thing to remember is that a scope is a tool, like a screwdriver, and there are scopes available for differing jobs. What would you mostly be doing with your rifle and scope?

 

[BENELLIMONTE]

I have bought quite a few scopes at very good prices. These included Bushnell Elite 3200 & 4200 series, Nikon Monark, Cabelas "Guide" & "Premium Guide" series scopes. Check out the Cabelas line of scopes,these are a great quality scope for the price. Hope this info helps

 

[BATTLESUIT]

I'd be using the rifle for long range target shooting.

 

[cbrgator]

What are you considering to be long range?

 

[lamazza]

Another vote for Bushnell Elite. A very good value.

 

[redneck2]

OK...so what is "long range"?

For some guys, it's 200 yards. For some, it's 1,000. Whole different ballgames.

It's kinda like saying "I need a truck to haul some stuff". May be a 1/2 ton pick-up, may be a Mack.

 

[BATTLESUIT]

That a good question, and I don't think I can really answer that one.

 

[BATTLESUIT]

Alright. Well, for my own peace of mind, I want to practice to the point where I can hit a target that's beyond the range of most modern assault rifles. I could be mistaken, but I think most assault rifle ranges are between 300 and 500 yards. I want a rifle and optics that I can "grow" into as my shooting skills improve. I'm thinking anywhere from 500 to 1000 yards.

 

[cbrgator]

Well then you definitely want a 50mm obj lens. And something like 4-16x variable magnification. Maybe 6-20x. And if you want true quality, which is ever more important at those distances, be prepared to drop big $$$. Some will be better deals than others, but anything reasonably reliable at those distances will not be cheap.

 

[fastbike]

DO you have any idea where yo will find a 500/1000 yard range?

 

[homers]

I second the Bushnell 4200 3-9x-40. Got mine from Bruno Shooting Supplies for $239. Great scope, good value.

 

[BATTLESUIT]

Well, I think I have more than enough information to start my search now. Thanks for the help.

 

[snakeman]

nilkon 16x of any kind

 

[eye5600]

I think most assault rifle ranges are between 300 and 500 yards.

When I was in Basic Training (1969), the farthest target on the rifle range was 350 yards, and that was considered to be outside the nominal effective range of the M-16. The range was designed for the M-14, if not the M-1. There is a lot of emphasis on long ranges now, but not for moving targets, like attackers.

If you watch the gunfights on YouTube, you see a lot of people, including cops, can't hit an opponent at 15 yards with their sidearm. Of course, the adrenaline rush must be fantastic.

 

[sernv99]

Schmidt&Bender or Hensoldt

that will run you about $3500

 

[lipadj46]

Well then you definitely want a 50mm obj lens

I am not sure why he definitely needs a 50mm objective for long range shooting. 40mm objectives are fine, sometimes preferred and are only a part of the light transmission equation.