Good First Scope $400-500

[leadZERO]

So, I'm interested in getting into long range shooting (target for now, maybe hunting later). I purchased a Remington 700 in .308 and now I'm looking for a good scope to get started with. I'd really like something around the $400 mark, but could be talked into the $500 mark if it was a great value. Based on my research I think I'm looking for the following features:

1) Mil/Mil or MOA/MOA, no need to confuse myself with different marking units
2) Zero stop
3) Something between 4-25x (??)
4) I'd like a reticle with dot markings
5) FFP

Am I missing anything? Given these choices, what are the best bang-for-the-buck scopes in my price range? Should I change anything in my list above?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Ryan

 

[clamb4]

I have been using a Clearidge ulta XP5 4.5 x 22.5 x 50 on my 338 RUM for about a year now and have no complaints. I paid $602 and I see that they are now $499 with the Mil- Dot reticle on the Clearidge sight. This is IMO a deal for the features and proformace.

Welcome - Clearidge Optics!

 

[captainjoe]

There are people who know a lot more than I do about optics, but what I can offer from the research that I have done of late is that I am not aware of a scope for under $500 that will tick everything off of your wish list. Most scopes under $1k are SFP, rather than FFP.

There are some exceptions. The new Vortex Viper PST scopes are under $1k, though I have read mixed reports about the glass in the 4-16x50. Some people seem to like it or not mind and it does have zero stops. It is out of your budget range though.

I passed on the Viper PST and decided to get the new Weaver Tactical 3-15x50. It is mil/mil, FFP, and has an enhanced mildot reticle. The only thing it doesn't have is the zero stops, but the glass is reportedly very good. You can get one off of Midway, it is under $1k, but out of your budget range at $749: Weaver Tactical Rifle Scope 30mm Tube 3-15x 50mm 1/10 Mil Adjustments Side Focus First Focal Illuminated Enhanced Mil-Dot Reticle Matte - MidwayUSA

You can read a comparison done on the Vipers versus the Weaver here: SniperCentral - View topic - Field Test: Weaver 3-15 vs. Vortex PST 4-16 & 6-24

You can also read some reviews done on the Weaver here:

New Weaver tactical 3-15x50 - Sniper's Hide Forums

New Weaver tactical 3-15x50 - Sniper's Hide Forums

Good luck and let us know what you find!

 

[leadZERO]

Ok, so the Weaver looks like a good deal (I know it's beyond my price range, but like I said, I'm willing to go outside for great value).

Now my question, what will I need/should I look at for mounting it? I'll likely take it to Gander Mountain to have it all assembled, zero'd and all setup. Should I just go with their recommendation on how to mount the scope? Or should I purchased a rail and/or rings for them to use?

Thanks for the info, this is a big help!

Ryan

 

[captainjoe]

I'm far from an expert on this stuff and am learning all the time. What I did on my rifle is get a Picatinny rail and a set of Burris Signature Zee rings. Some of the others that I looked at were TPS TSR and also Seekins. Seekins were the most expensive.

 

[leadZERO]

I'm looking at the Burris rings, what height should I get? And I'd need the 30mm ones correct?

 

[captainjoe]

Ring height is tricky. I suggest you take your rifle into a gun shop or sporting goods to have them look at it.

 

[ICANHITHIMMAN]

Horus vision HAWK scope is my choice I have had mine going on 4 years now with no issued run it on 4 different rifles.

 

[Dr. Vette]

Now my question, what will I need/should I look at for mounting it? I'll likely take it to Gander Mountain to have it all assembled, zero'd and all setup.

Ryan

Ryan,

Where are you at? You did not fill this out in your profile. It might help us in answering your question(s).

I'd try it yourself before ever trusting anyone at GM with it. There has got to be someone better, if not yourself. There is a lot of info on the net as to how to properly mount a scope without relying on GM. A bullet level or two can get you a long way.

Just my $0.02