Armed Polite Society
Main Forums => The Roundtable => Topic started by: Balog on August 21, 2013, 11:32:34 AM
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Gearing up for hunting season, and one thing I don't have is a decent scope. Between the local terrain and accepting my own limitations I don't plan on shooting at anything over 200ish yards away, and in the dense woods much closer shots are likely. I'm looking for something <2 power on the low end, 4-5 on the top end. Rugged, durable, and weather resistant are high priorities. Solid low light capability is also big. Price range is $2-300. And before anyone starts hassling me about needing to spend as much on the scope as on the gun, I'm putting it on a rifle I got essentially for free so...
I've heard good things about the Leupold VX1 with the heavy duplex reticle. Anyone else have good experiences in this price range?
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Don't we have a guy on this forum who sells scopes? I think he bundles them with the moccasins he sells. Do a search on "Moccasins" and I'm sure you'll recognize him.
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I'm very happy with my Leupold VX1 2-7x32. It has been on my deer rifle since 2003.
I haven't needed to shoot a deer over 50yds either.
I've heard good things about the Redfield Revenge scopes and bought a 3-9x40 for my 300WM. I looked at Nikons, but the Redfield was clearer in the store. FWIW, Redfield is owned by Leupold and has the same lifetime warranty.
Chris
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How do you like the 2-7 for close in work? I know it's probably irrational, but I used a fixed magnification acog in Iraq and hated not being able to drop it to no magnification for close in work. Although hunting and clearing houses probably aren't really all that related, it's just a mental block for me.
And come to think of it that may have been the 4power model, so maybe a 2 wouldn't be an issue for me...
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Leupold FX series if you want fixed power, VX if you want variable. Hard to go wrong there.
Also, check out their VX-Hog. I didn't know it existed until a couple minutes ago. 1-4x with a surprisingly small profile. One of those on a 450 Marlin carbine would be brutally effective hog medicine, not to mention fast to shoulder or easy to quickly maneuver out of the truck.
Dick carries Leupold. Give him a call.
Brad
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I have a Leupold FX-II 4x33 that has been a good scope.
It's quite durable. It's been mounted to a Springfield M1A Scout and rattled around in the back of a truck on some really rough forest roads in eastern Arizona near the Mogillon Rim, and kept zero fine (the mount didn't keep zero, but that's another story... tighten the mount up again and the rifle was back to zero give or take a minute).
It's been mounted on an Armscorp M14, also, using a different M14 pattern receiver mount (previous one was an ARMS #18, this one is an SEI). Also less than impressed with the mount stability, but the scope stays true as long as the mount doesn't move.
It's been mounted on an American Spirit AR-15 20" upper and been a nice little setup on there, though that rifle now sports an ACOG instead of the FX-II.
Right now it's waiting for a new rifle to sit on top of. Some day I'll happen upon a little private party left handed Savage or Remington .308 that would be perfect for this guy, and it sits in my safe waiting for that day.
I'm a big fan of low magnification, fixed power scopes. I have 4 of them... the ACOG, this FX-II, a cheap chicom ACOG knockoff on my .22 AR, and a Bushnell 4x32 (basically a low-end copy of the FX-II) on a .22 savage autoloader.
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How do you like the 2-7 for close in work? I know it's probably irrational, but I used a fixed magnification acog in Iraq and hated not being able to drop it to no magnification for close in work. Although hunting and clearing houses probably aren't really all that related, it's just a mental block for me.
And come to think of it that may have been the 4power model, so maybe a 2 wouldn't be an issue for me...
The shortest shot I've taken was at about 15yds. Other than forgetting to compensate for my POA being higher than my POI at that range (rifle sighted in dead on at 100yds, shot went low, missing the spine on a neck shot), it was fine. The deer dropped, but I had to give it a 2nd shot to kill it. Plenty of FOV for the shot(s).
Chris
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This is what the 2-7x32 VX1 looks like on my rifle:
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1100.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fg405%2Fallencb%2Frifle.jpg&hash=a5bf747400e26735185a128274a774729e059aff)
Chris
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The nice thing about the 2-7 vs the 1-4 is that it's 32mm vs 20mm. I wonder how signifigant the difference would be in terms of light gathering?
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The shortest shot I've taken was at about 15yds. Other than forgetting to compensate for my POA being higher than my POI at that range (rifle sighted in dead on at 100yds, shot went low, missing the spine on a neck shot), it was fine. The deer dropped, but I had to give it a 2nd shot to kill it. Plenty of FOV for the shot(s).
Chris
A fixed 4x would probably work fine, except no self respecting hunter would be caught dead with such an antique :lol:
I once had a whitetail buck sneak up on me to about 15 yards. All I could see was his chest but he dropped DRT (.243). I suppose I should have shot him in the eyeball or something. Last year I went back to open sights (different rifle) but didn't happen to get one. I was working most of the time, and only hunting on my own property.
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In that price I'm sticking with a Nikon buckmasters or the vortex offering in that price range.
On my phone and exact model escapes me.
Personally imo there are much better scopes for the money than the low end leupolds.
Sent via tapatalk
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How do you like the 2-7 for close in work? I know it's probably irrational, but I used a fixed magnification acog in Iraq and hated not being able to drop it to no magnification for close in work. Although hunting and clearing houses probably aren't really all that related, it's just a mental block for me.
And come to think of it that may have been the 4power model, so maybe a 2 wouldn't be an issue for me...
Buddy has a Leupold 1-4x variable on his rifle and I thought it pretty spiffy. I contemplated getting a custom version with the post reticle and than we had another kid....
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I have an older Leupold 1x4 . . . good durable scope, clear optics, but the eye relief does change a bit when zooming.
How do you like the 2-7 for close in work? I know it's probably irrational, but I used a fixed magnification acog in Iraq and hated not being able to drop it to no magnification for close in work. Although hunting and clearing houses probably aren't really all that related, it's just a mental block for me . . .
Within reason, how well a 'scope is suited for close in work is as much a function of how well the rifle fits you as it is the 'scope magnification. If you can bring the rifle to your shoulder and the reticle is right there on whatever your target is, you're in good shape; if you have to screw around a bit, moving the rifle, your eye, whatever in order to get everything lined up, you're going to have a problem making a quick snap shot.
Much is written about shotgun fit, but rifle fit is important, too.
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I really like Burris for a cheap priced scope. I have a 2-7x33 on my muzzle loader and I kill deer from 10-150 yards with it, I paid $99 for it on sale, you can find them for $139-$150 on sale if you search the internets. I really think Burris optics are very undervalued, I also have a 3-9x40 on my .243 rifle.
Here is a snap shot I took of it late season ML season.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/193540_10100985794831220_1613303763_o.jpg)
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Thanks Charby, I'll look into Burris. Have you done any comparisons with other models? Gets confusing with so many different options.
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Thanks Charby, I'll look into Burris. Have you done any comparisons with other models? Gets confusing with so many different options.
I own Nikon, Burris and an old Weaver. I think the both of my Burris is the brightest.
How far do you live away from a big box outdoor store like Cabelas, Bass Pro or Sportsmans Warehouse? They all have a way you can look through various scopes.
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Take a look at the Weaver 1-3x20 too, I've got two of them and wouldn't hesitate to get another if I needed one. Weight is under 9oz, and it's got the widest range of eye relief of any scope I've ever looked through, from cut your eyebrow to scout setup. Here's one on my lightweight AR:
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi328.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fl342%2F1k_wayne%2Fguns%2F68spc-1.jpg%7Eoriginal&hash=2adcf5555e9853cb5ebdeb481e6ac8afcc799da4)
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I'm also a fan of low power variable scopes.
I've got one of these on my favorite Marlin 336
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/791324/leupold-vx-3-rifle-scope-15-5x-20mm-duplex-reticle-matte (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/791324/leupold-vx-3-rifle-scope-15-5x-20mm-duplex-reticle-matte)
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi23.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb398%2FFLHRI-OK%2F09%2520deer%2FIMG_4787.jpg&hash=883252edfde84ac140e504e4614f7bbe8737c601) (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/FLHRI-OK/media/09%20deer/IMG_4787.jpg.html)
And I've got one of these on a Henry .22
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/183610/weaver-classic-v-series-rifle-scope-1-3x-20mm-dual-x-reticle-matte (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/183610/weaver-classic-v-series-rifle-scope-1-3x-20mm-dual-x-reticle-matte)
I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one of either.
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Larry, do you notice much difference between the two in clarity and usefulness in low light?
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I gotta give the Leupold the edge overall but the Weaver is no
Tasco slouch.
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Did you know that your pet deer has a bloody nose?
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Did you know that your pet deer has a bloody nose?
In that picture she was just a shell of her former self.
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In that picture she was just a shell of her former self.
So she didn't have the guts to stand up for herself?
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I run a Swift 1.5-4.5x32 on my Ruger #1S in .45-70. It will handle the recoil of my 500gr thumper loads, no problem.
That was my biggest criteria for selection, some variable-power scopes really don't like a heavy thump.
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmauser98.com%2F500grhornadyloadedruger.jpg&hash=30d3d9317cce7532e3f9c753552d5b568eba4223)
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A fixed 4x would probably work fine, except no self respecting hunter would be caught dead with such an antique
Good thing I have no respect for myself!!!! :P
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2F0603%2FBob8251%2FGuns%2520and%2520Stuff%2FLsides.jpg&hash=d36c8d922a03d73d9147a6529899db3466d709af)
A 1976 Ruger M77. Weaver K4W. Still works, why putz with it? ;)
bob
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I ran an old steel tube Weaver on a 600 Remington in .308 for 20 some years as my mostly deer & sometime coyote rifle. Worked great from 4 yds to 225 but last year these old eyes decided they wanted more magnification. I may just retire the setup & buy a new rifle.
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I have a Nikon 1-4x of their .223 series, I really like leaving such a thing set at 1x. Not beat it up enough to say yay or nay to it yet though. For the price I liked it better than a comparable used Leupold I looked at.
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A few years ago I went through my inventory, looking at the combinations that had huge 30mm tube scopes with 50mm objectives dwarfing their respective rifles.
Save for an F-Class and a couple other specialty guns, I sold off those monster scopes and bought new or restored steel-tube El Paso Weavers and Denver Redfields to complement the older rifles they were perched upon.
There are a couple craftsmen out there who will completely refurbish old Lyman, Weaver, Unertl, and Redfield scopes back to as-new condition.
While I have my share of Leupolds, nothing says classic like an old steel-tube 2-8x Weaver with external adjustments perched on a 1960's style Mauser conversion.
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmauser98.com%2Fambergbenchweaverright3.jpg&hash=55d3bdf4a6ba4d6ed823ce0c79d82f6969c09093)
Yeah, the whole Mauser's parkerized. I wanted a corrosion-resistant finish when I did the conversion. Something of a contrast, but it works...
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I recently got the picatinny rail adapter for the German surplus 4X scope meant for the HK G3 or PTR-91. I think it will end up on my 10/22, but not sure.
Overall, I have been gravitating to Nikon scopes over Leupold.
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G98: who does restoration work? I have an old Weaver that needs attention.
And that is one purty rifle right there.
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rather than a magnified scope, have you considered a (good) reddot?
Chris
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rather than a magnified scope, have you considered a (good) reddot?
Chris
I have, but I'm not sure that would work well at the farther (150-200 yard) mark. Unfortunately the terrain is varied enough that <50 and >150 shots are both common, or so is my understanding.
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I had a rare chance to play with one of these this afternoon:
http://www.opticsplanet.com/konus-konuspro-1-4x24mm-zoom-m30-rifle-scope-7284.html
It was on a .357 Handi Rifle. Very clear and repeatable. I haven't check for other reviews for them so I can't say run out and grab one but just something else to look at.
jim
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I have, but I'm not sure that would work well at the farther (150-200 yard) mark. Unfortunately the terrain is varied enough that <50 and >150 shots are both common, or so is my understanding.
I'd be comfortable on deer-sized game out to 100yds with a red dot as long as the dot isn't too large. I bought mine for handgun use, but it may end up on my muzzleloader.
Chris
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Balog, here you go:
http://ironsightinc.com/index.php?route=common/weaver
Be advised, if it's a V8 model like the one above, they don't have any parts available for repairs.
Others:
George Kohl/Precision Optics
Sirius146@hotmail.com
(Weaver 330 series, M84)
Parsons Scope Service
PO Box 192
Ross, OH 45061
513-867-0820
(Restoration of old scopes)
Burrell at Sullivan’s Classic Arms
678-513-7575
wbs2112@aol.com
(Weaver 330 series, M81/82, M84, German ZF-4, ZF-41)
Dan
ds1911@verizon.net
(lens delamination, crosshairs)
Earl Osborn 928-632-8717
Osborn Optical Systems (M84)
585 S Dewey Rd
Dewey, AZ 86327
Optical-repair@cableone.net
I've had excellent results from Parsons Scope Service.
IIRC, I even had them R&R my WWII Artillery binoculars with rangefinding reticle. =D
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I have a Burris XTR 1-4 on an AR. It is a nice scope and easily gets me to 500 yards. The reticle is lighted, if that interests you.
http://www.burristactical.com/xtrtactical.html
I have, but I'm not sure that would work well at the farther (150-200 yard) mark. Unfortunately the terrain is varied enough that <50 and >150 shots are both common, or so is my understanding.
What caliber will you use? What is the kill zone on your game? 4 inch circle? 8 inch? Head shots only?
I ask because you might be able to find a zero distance that keeps all your shots in a 4 inch circle from 0 to 150 yards with the same point of aim.
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I have a Burris XTR 1-4 on an AR. It is a nice scope and easily gets me to 500 yards. The reticle is lighted, if that interests you.
http://www.burristactical.com/xtrtactical.html
What caliber will you use? What is the kill zone on your game? 4 inch circle? 8 inch? Head shots only?
I ask because you might be able to find a zero distance that keeps all your shots in a 4 inch circle from 0 to 150 yards with the same point of aim.
I'm planning on using a .270, and I imagine an 8" circle would be generally adequate in terms of vitals. The bigger issue I think would be my poor eyesight, at range a bit of magnification is a boon.
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Ayone have experience with the Vortex Diamondback line? I'd never heard of them but when doing some research they get rave reviews. I tend to avoid newer brands, but apparently they've been making bino's for decades so they've got plenty of optics experience even if not scopes. And I've yet to find anyone with a single negative comment about their customer service and support.
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Vortex stuff is generally very well regarded.
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I played with one of these this afternoon on an AR in .300 balckout.
http://www.amazon.com/Millet-1-4x-Multi-Rifle-Scope/dp/B001CF8YPU
I wouldn't be worried about taking a 150 yd shot with it on 4x as long as I had some type of support.
Kinda nice when someone comes to visit and brings toys.
jim
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A fixed 4x would probably work fine, except no self respecting hunter would be caught dead with such an antique :lol:
I once had a whitetail buck sneak up on me to about 15 yards. All I could see was his chest but he dropped DRT (.243). I suppose I should have shot him in the eyeball or something. Last year I went back to open sights (different rifle) but didn't happen to get one. I was working most of the time, and only hunting on my own property.
I must be a dinosaur or something but I was about to suggest a Weaver K4 or one of their 2X models, if you can find one.
Here are the Classic V models.
http://www.weaveroptics.com/optics/riflescopes/classic_v/
I bought a used K4 a while back. The optics are very good, the reticle is two thin lines and a tiny dot. No idea how old it is but it appears to be a great older scope.
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The old Weaver K4 is one hell of a scope. I have a couple, very solid and simple!
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The rifle in question has a K4 on it, with fancy Weaver brand tip off mounts. Scope has fungus issues and needs to be cleaned, and the thin reticle isn't great for my bad eyes and heavy cover game. If anyone wants either of those things I'll sell them cheap. :)