One more scope decision thread! Advise greatly appreciated!

[youngtrout]

Okay, after much searching, reading, and some store visits I have narrowed my search and budget to three scopes.

For some background, the scope will go on my 280 AI project, its a trued savage 110, stockade woodchuck, SSS trigger, and finally a select match SS shilen barrel, heavy sporter, 26 inches. I'm going to use nosler brass and bullet choice I'm still researching.

My vision for the project is to have a solid 600 yd rifle, for deer sized game and to just have fun at the range with. I like to shoot the 500yd target at my range, I do alright with my couple rifles but I'm using some serious holdover and would like a more accurate way to hold, (so turrets of some sort)

My budget has narrowed it down to 3

Bushnell Elite 4200 Scope 4-16x 40mm Adjustable Objective Multi-X Reticle
(and possibly the same version in the 30mm tube)

Nikon Monarch Scope 4-16x 42mm Side Focus Nikoplex Reticle Matte

Leupold VX-3 Long Range Scope 30mm Tube 4.5-14x 40mm Side Focus Duplex Reticle

I've already decided that the 4X range should be my low end, I'm in Colorado but for the close shots I would like the lower end and at the range I'm talking I think 14-16 would be okay, my WY antelope trip this year I wish I had iron sights, or my bow!! shot was at 12 yards

I'm thinking about even going to a 50mm but I need to look through a few more scopes to decide

I'm mainly concerned with repeatabilty, and function above all, although I really like the look of the leupold.

Thoughts about any of the three?? general comments??
thanks guys!!

 

[royinidaho]

well..........

The first suggestion, which has nothing to do with optics, would be to bag the nosler brass idea. Unless, that is, you're not going for maximum loads. The heads/webs are just too soft. Primer pockets loosen quickly at tip top end loads. I'd consider WW brass over Nosler. More capacity......

Regarding glass. For dedicated LRH a 50 mm objective would be optimal. However, it looks as if you are anticipating shorter shots, with the ability to take advantage of longer shot opportunities. A 42mm would be sufficient for that and 14X is plenty. I use a Weaver Tactical 4.5-14 42 or 44 mm and she's plenty in any light.

It would seem that any of the scopes you mention would have accurate clicks. Side by side evaluations would be the final test and should be conducted under less that optimum light conditions.

Just my opinion.......

I'd also strongly consider a side focus over an AO. Its just more convenient.

 

[Moman]

Scope selection

Hey, I read your thread on scope selection and I'm going through the same thing. I am leaning toward the VX-III, 4.5 x 14 x 40 LR. I have had a lot of advice about getting the 50 mm objective and I think it is good advice, but I have never shot through one and am afraid I might not like the higher mounting on my rifle. Have you tried one?

 

[youngtrout]

-Roy, thanks for the comments, first I've heard that about the brass, I heard it tends to have less capacity, but not a about it being soft, I'll look into it

-Moman, for me personally the 40mm has always worked for what I do, it will gather enough light (again, for me) from the start of shooting hours to the end, again IMO though I've never have a scope over 40mm

 

[Delta Hunter]

After considering pretty much the same scopes I decided on the Zeiss Conquest 4.5-14x50. You can get them for a decent price on Cameralandny's demo list.

 

[James H]

well..........

The first suggestion, which has nothing to do with optics, would be to bag the nosler brass idea. Unless, that is, you're not going for maximum loads. The heads/webs are just too soft. Primer pockets loosen quickly at tip top end loads. I'd consider WW brass over Nosler. More capacity......

Roy
In case you didn't know Nosler brass is made by various companies.
While I have not tried 280AI Nosler brass I have been told by a knowledgeable source that the 280AI brass is top quality.

youngtrout
While not on your list I have four Sightron SII 4x16x42 scopes and have been very happy with them. I think they are an excellent compromise for both short and long range.

James