Best scope for long range and hunting?

[M_Shock]

Thanks a ton for the all the replies everyone. It appears I have some more reading to do before I make a decision. Who would have thought that long range shooting for a hobby would have so much research involved! You fellas are making easier for me though, and that is much appreciated.

Thanks,
Matt

[Magnumdude]

I would add to this discussion some information about the low magnification end of a variable power scope. There are many seasoned hunters who won't go afield with anything but a 6X, usually a Leupold 6x42 here in the US. I would add the caveat that these are folks who see no need for a variable power scope. I think for variable users, the ubiquitous 3-9x40 by far leads the pack in sales. (I say that w/out having any figures in front of me). I don't think you're hampered by...say a 6-24x50 variable. If you notice, with the exception of Nightforce, almost all scope companies have a top-end variable the is 5-25, 6-24, 8.5-25.....

I would question the utility of the 8.5-25 (Leupold) on the low end. 6X is the highest I want on the low end of variable hunting scope.

[jwp475]

Originally Posted by Magnumdude

I would add to this discussion some information about the low magnification end of a variable power scope. There are many seasoned hunters who won't go afield with anything but a 6X, usually a Leupold 6x42 here in the US. I would add the caveat that these are folks who see no need for a variable power scope. I think for variable users, the ubiquitous 3-9x40 by far leads the pack in sales. (I say that w/out having any figures in front of me). I don't think you're hampered by...say a 6-24x50 variable. If you notice, with the exception of Nightforce, almost all scope companies have a top-end variable the is 5-25, 6-24, 8.5-25.....

I would question the utility of the 8.5-25 (Leupold) on the low end. 6X is the highest I want on the low end of variable hunting scope.

Nightforce makes a 5.5X22 power in both a 50mm and a 56mm objective