I am new here and I am wanting to get into long range shooting. I bought a remmington 700 bdl in a 30-06 fluted barrel. I bought a 3-9 luepold about two years ago. I was wondering should I buy a new rifle and a new scope to go into long range. Or should I just get a new scope. I kinda of like the 6.5-284 and I want a nightforce scope.
The 06 has taken more game than any other rifle cartidge in history except for maybe the .22 LR, L, S and perhaps maybe the .303 british.
It can be a very effective and accurate LR cartridge within limits.
There's nothing in N. America I'd hesitate to take with one to at least 600yds, but that's pretty much what I'd consider a reasonable limit for it for anything bigger than a White Tailed Deer.
If you like the .30 cal (and only a fool doesn't) but want more power down range I'd say look at the .300 WM, .300 RUM.
Also beyond 500yds most would say you really need a minimum of 12-14x in a good quality scope like the VX III's. Some seem to believe you can't hit anything at 1,000 with less than 22x but I'm not in that crowd.
When it comes to glass though always spend more than you thought you could afford and get a little better quality and magnification than you think you'll need. If the budget limits me to choosing between more X and bigger Objectives I always go for the bigger objective because of better low light capability. It can make the difference between a once in a lifetime wall hanger and one you couldn't pull the trigger on due to clouds/fog or just running out of daylight.
A good rule of thumb is to be willing to spend as much on a scope as you will on your rifle.
There's nothing more frustrating than a great rifle that won't shoot because it's got cheap glass on it.