Fixed 10X vs variable at 600-700 yds

[jwcrabb]

Hey Guys,
Just got thru reading the frequently asked questions section, and i'm still confused. I have a simple question... Is it possible to consistantly hit targets at 600-700 yds with a fixed 10X tactical type scope, just as well as with something of higher power? I'm new to the long range game and it just doesn't seem possible. Educate me... Thanks

[royinidaho]

YES!

My short answer is too short. Get a good 10X though as they don't compare w/a variable, lower powder, under poor light conditions.

[Natty Bumpo]

Marine snipers used a fixed 10X Unertl scope for a long time. Worked for them.

[Chas1]

Any thoughts on why the BR guys go variable at much higher powers?

[fmajor]

Initially, 3-9x scopes were used. However, repeatability was problematic. So the 10x was introduced and became the *standard* military 'long-range' optic. Shortly thereafter the 10x optics were produced, 16x and 20x were added for the spec-ops guys. So yea, 10x will definitely be good to 600-700 yds.

Nowadays, machining is so much better than before that POI repeatability is constant in the higher-end variable powers. So if you have a choice, a *good* variable offers greater flexibility over the fixed-power optics at no loss in accuracy/repeatability.

[jwcrabb]

Thanks Guys, I've decided on a 3.5 X 10 X 40mm Leupold. I've got my eye out for a good used one in the tactical version if possible. Hope I can find one.

[Chas1]

You may want to check here on LRH scopes for sale.