.300 WSM Build

[ORgunner]

Alright first off i want to say that this is my first long range platform build. This rifle is going to be more of a hunter then target shooter and i am looking to shoot anywhere from 100 to 800 yards. Skim bedded Bell and Carlson stock with a custom 1:10 26 inch Predator Custom barrel. Now where i need some help is shopping for the right scope to put on. Im not looking to break the bank so i would say a general area might be 500$ and under for price range. Is there any scopes that fits the bill for what i want to do? Thanks for the help guys. I am really enjoying the site and cant wait to get into long range hunting next season. gun)

 

[ORgunner]

TTT please

 

[Jokostel]

I know most LR folks on this site would cringe... but I have have excellent luck with the high power Bushnell Elites and the higher power Burris FF2 models.

Granted for 500, you may also be able to score yourself a pretty nice Vortex optik, as far as Leupold, you probably will be forced into staying with the VX-II series...

 

[bigairbear]

I have a Leupold 3.5-10X CDS that I really like. It is good for a hunting rifle if you aren't huge into long range but want something that can reach out there if need be. I feel good out to 500 with it. You won't constantly have to fool with a focus either. I like it cause I can just range quick, dial in and take care of business. They are right at $500. Leupold will make your first dial for free too. Of coarse I live 8 minutes from Leupold so I am a little bias to them.

 

[winmag]

Go shopping on Craigslist. You can usually pick up a Leupold VX-III 4.5-14x40 A/O for around $4-450.
Leupold Custom shop is very AWESOME to work with. Not too expensive either. Plus thier warranty is unbeatable, even if you aren't the original purchaser.
I sent one in that I bought right here on LRH, & had a Varmint hunters reticle installed for $109.99
I'll send it back again for turrets as soon as my 300WSM Build is done, & I have load data. I couldn't be happier. I can't say enough about how AWESOME Leupold is to work with, & thier products are great.
Make sure you get a VX-III, or better, cause you have way more custom shop options than the lesser models.
I also have a Burris FF-II 4.5-14X42 P/A with the B-Plex on my 270WSM. It's a great scope, & I can't say that I've ever owned a more rugged piece of glass. It's Brute tough, & durable, but its no Leupy. Given the option, Leupold is my #1 choice of the two.
I can't afford a Nightforce either.

 

[BountyHunter]

If you want to search craigslist use this website. www.searchtempest.com

It allows you to search craiglist all across the US by number of miles away from you and key words. Really works and easy to use.

 

[D.ID]

I also use the bushnell elite 4200 and you can get a new 6-24x50 md on ebay for $600....... I love mine.

 

[ORgunner]

Thanks for all the feedback folks, ill keep looking into all of that. Have any of you had experience with the SWFA Super Sniper scopes?

 

[D.ID]

Great reputation for repeatability. I would not hesitate to buy one but I personally have not used them yet.

 

[ORgunner]

Ok i think i have narrowed it down. I have found a few good deals on the Leupold VX-III 4.5-14x40 on craigslist. As far as the SWFA im not sure if a fixed power will be preferable for hunting. So here is my question: Between the Leupold, SWFA, and Vortex which scope would be best for hunting deer, bear, elk, antelope from 0-800 yards?

 

[winmag]

Ok i think i have narrowed it down. I have found a few good deals on the Leupold VX-III 4.5-14x40 on craigslist. As far as the SWFA im not sure if a fixed power will be preferable for hunting. So here is my question: Between the Leupold, SWFA, and Vortex which scope would be best for hunting deer, bear, elk, antelope from 0-800 yards?

Leupy. Crank er down to 4.5 for brush, crank er up for LR, run 6x for all round. That's what I do, & it has ever let me down yet. Deer, Elk, Bear, & everything in between. Near to far.
Plus its a Leupold. You can send it in for any upgrade you want that's available for VX-III scopes. Change your mind? Ok, send it in for a different one. Now you want turrets, ok. Take your pick. Add a BC Varmint reticle? ok. Change your mind again? No problemb.
Plus thier warranty is unbeatable. Period.
I have Leupys, & have sent em in for upgrades, & one for warranty work. Nothin but praise from me about Leupold, products, & service. They're Awesome.