Need a new scope for 280 Ackley

My 280 Ackley was finished up recently and is only missing one thing, a new scope. I think I have found the end of the internet in my quest for the perfect scope for this project. This will be a duel purpose rifle, hunting and also shooting at a friends range on the farm. At this point shots are limited to a maximum distance of 600 yards. I seem to be changing my mind daily on what I want to do so I was looking to see if anyone has any thoughts.

Currently the rifle weighs a shade under 8lbs. Remington 700 action, Brux barrel, and Manners EH2 stock. I am hoping to keep the scope in the 20ish oz range. As of right now I'm interested in something with an elevation turret that can be calibrated for my exact load. I love the simplicity and built in CDS system of Leupold, but haven't read terribly great things about its tracking. Kenton offers custom turrets for a few of these models as an option as well.....

Some I have recently seen:
Nightforce NXS 2.5-10X42
Leupold VX6 HD 2-12x42 & 3-18x44
Leica ERi 2-10x42
Swarovski Z5 3.5-18x44
Burris Veracity 2-10x42

Two that I am interested in seeing in person but cannot find:
S&B Klassik 3-12x42/50 - Can be fitted with Precision Hunter turret @ S&B
Leica Visus 2.5-10x42 & 3-12x50
Zeiss Victory Diavari 2.5-10x50

Are there any others I should be looking at? Thanks for any info!

I have a few NXS's the 2.5-10x42 is solid kit however I recently acquired a vx6 2-12x42 and I really like that scope for a lightweight option. It has thus far tracked very well and the glass is every bit as good as the NXS IMO.

The Burris veracity new turrets are neat and super easy to order even multiple custom dials. I have a 2-10, it's a nice scope but if I could buy again I would go with a leupold vx5. I've always had great luck with leupys and find them great in low light hunting.

Given the options and parameters you laid out my choice would be the NF NXS. Mine have been indestructible and their tracking is dead nuts reliable.

Another option you could look at is the new Zeiss Conquest V6. I just put one of these on a lighter weight 280 AI custom rifle of mine. So far I've been blown away by how well this thing tracks. The glass is very good too. I believe Kenton Industries is making some of their ballistic specific calibrated turrets like you prefer for it also.

The Conquest V6 is a nice lighter scope with great glass for its price point and spot on tracking mechanics. The NXS is heavier but sets the standard at their price, and the Veracity is a great budget scope when on sale coupled with a $100 rebate. I bought a Veracity 4-20 x 50 on my 340 Bee, because of FFP, low light performance, solid mechanics and the M.A.D. turrets. Got a deal at $538 after rebate.

Take a look at NF 4~16x50 ATACR and the NXS 3.5~15x50 Excellent glass, construction, repeatable and almost indestructible.

I recommend VX 6 3-18. Light, great glass, functions and warranty

Thanks for the replies. I am still going back and forth between a few options. I like the NXS compact, but have seen/heard that there isn't much fore/aft movement on a long action.

I am hoping to get a look through a S&B 3-12x42 Precision Hunter this week. This would most likely be my first option if I could find one used.

I also looked through a VX5 HD in a big box store the other day and was underwhelmed. Going to have another look at a VX6 HD this week at Cabelas. Wasn't able to get the VX5 HD and VX6 HD side by side, anyone know if the glass is different between the two?

If I am missing any others that fall into this general price range, and aren't boat anchors, feel free to school me.

Thanks!

ebaas said:

I am hoping to get a look through a S&B 3-12x42 Precision Hunter this week. This would most likely be my first option if I could find one used.

I also looked through a VX5 HD in a big box store the other day and was underwhelmed. Going to have another look at a VX6 HD this week at Cabelas. Wasn't able to get the VX5 HD and VX6 HD side by side, anyone know if the glass is different between the two?

If

Thanks!

Click to expand...

VX5 and VX 6 are same glass.

S&B are top notch but price is too

stwcattle said:

Take a look at NF 4~16x50 ATACR and the NXS 3.5~15x50 Excellent glass, construction, repeatable and almost indestructible.

Click to expand...

I just checked out the 4-16X42 ATACR...that is definitely a contender. A little heavy @ 30oz but I love the compact size and great magnification range. I'll call NF and ask about mounting to LA. Thanks!

Bushnell LRHS 3-12 is a great choice

If you "think the ATACR is a contender " just buy it. Everything else in this thread doesn't compare unless you step up to a PMII .