Cheap high-power scope

[the big greasy]

Looking for a scope for my .223 and shooting to distances of 800 yard targets. I know that more money is better but I'm after a scope around 200/400 dollars. I'm not after the clearest and all that stuff as I'm not shooting at animals ever. Just need enough turret elevation mounted on a 20 moa rail. Thank you.

 

[akdad]

Tons of really good options. Get ready to hear a lot of opinions. Right now we are super spoiled with choices.

 

[CaneBrake]

In that price range I'd get an Arken EP5. It's $50 more than the high end of your price range. They track well, the turrets are great, glass is okay for the price. Past those three qualities you won't be impressed but it's the meat and potatoes optic. It gives you the thing you need to perform and forgets about the rest. You won't find anything that can compete with it for less than $500 in my opinion.

 

[Pdyson]

I love my EP5 but the EPL-4 is lighter cheaper and still a solid performer.

EPL-4 6-24X50 FFP Illuminated VHR/VPR - Zero Stop - 30mm Tube

The EP-L (EP Light) is our Light Weight Hunter version of the EP (Extreme Precision) series. It is built on a streamline 30mm main tube to reduce overall weight with our toolless, easy to operate capped windage turret that lets you set and forget.

www.arkenopticsusa.com

 

[jjmp]

Meopta makes scopes with the 223 retical,only a rich man can afford cheap scopes just saying,cheers

 

[haisardao]

I just got a Swfa fixed 10x for my new 223, love it, rugged, and pretty good glass. Scope was around $320

 

[Hugnot]

20X high enough?

If so try a Sightron 4-20X50 STAC with MOA2 reticle. Shop around for under $400 inc. shipping. More than adequate everything.

16X OK?

If so, try a Sightron 3-16X42 STAC with MOA3 reticle About $40-$50 less than 4-20X50 STAC.

No complaints about mine. Funny dial markings could be improved but marked tape fixed that. Both focus down to 15 yards or so for rimfire use. 2nd focal plane, 30 mm tubes. Excellent tracking. I have 5 Sightons on rodent rifles, .20 to 6.5 caliber. Love that .25 MOA dot on reticle.

 

[jjmp]

OP,800 is stretching it ,yours a fast twist?im limited to six twenty 5 and it's a factory custom 1/14 twist I've not out shot it yet

 

[jebel]

Mueller 8-32x44 for $280.

Mueller Optics 8-32x44mm Side Focus Target Dot Rifle Scope MU83244TD, Color: Black, Tube Diameter: 30 mm, $20.00 Off w/ Free Shipping

Shop Mueller Optics 8-32x44mm Side Focus Target Dot Rifle Scope | $20.00 Off 4.4 Star Rating on 93 Reviews for Mueller Optics 8-32x44mm Side Focus Target Dot Rifle Scope Best Rated + Free...

www.opticsplanet.com

 

[M1A1ABRAMS]

Looking for a scope for my .223 and shooting to distances of 800 yard targets. I know that more money is better but I'm after a scope around 200/400 dollars. I'm not after the clearest and all that stuff as I'm not shooting at animals ever. Just need enough turret elevation mounted on a 20 moa rail. Thank you.

Primary Arms has some decent scopes for the money.

 

[std7mag]

Realistically, at 800 yards, the 20-25 power on the high end will let you see the target, and the mirage.
Seeing the mirage is both a good and a bad thing.
Bad in that it obscures your visibility.
Good in that it helps with windage hold offs.

Even with the most expensive glass, don't expect to see a 223 bullet hole at 800 yards.
Heck, even 400 is pushing it, dependant on conditions.

And with,( I'll call it inexpensive glass, not cheap) forget seeing a 223 bullet hole at 300 yards.

If your set at 800 yards, and doing maybe a match or 3, I'd recommend saving up more money and finding a used Sightron SIII. Either the 8-32X56, or a 10-50X60.
Used you can usually find one for $750 ish.

 

[K.E.C. Darkside]

Vortex Venom

 

[slambert008]

Vortex Diamondback tactical. You can choose between MIL/ MOA and they come in FFP at a very nice price point. About $100 over your budget but the lifetime warranty and customer service is worth it

 

[jrkotz]

Another vote for Arken. Ton of scope for the money