Scope opinions?

I just picked up my first bolt action and would like to get into long range shooting. I'm looking at spending around 8 or 9 on a piece of glass but I don't really know anything about higher end optics (except what I've read on the internet and that my wallet hates them).

I guess what I'm looking for is suggestions within that price range for a scope that has; at least 16x magnification, preferred first focal plane MOA reticle, zero stop, and preferably uncapped turrets. So far all I've ran across is the Vortex Viper PST 6-24x50 FFP EBR-1. I've read some mixed reviews about consistency in adjustments and glass clarity.

Also, is first focal plane worth the extra cash over second? I know the theory behind it but is someone of my skill level (which is pretty novice at this type of shooting) going to even care about? The SFP variant of the Vortex scope mentioned above is $100 cheaper.

Any thoughts/opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaand I just read this is an AR-15 specific sub-forum... fml

I have the Vortex Viper PST 2.5-10x44mm on my Rem 700. Love it! I am sure you have already checked out Sniperhide's website if not, very good site for optics, and great deals. I picked up mine used but in mint condition for $400.00.

I've had several scopes over the years. I've had great luck with Leupold, the old American made Burris and Nikon Monarchs. Given a choice it would be Leupold hands down.

I've had Simmons and Eagles and have had experience with BSA, Nt Star and they have all been crap. The glass or "plastic" may have been good for awhile but it didn't take long and they either fogged up, lost and wouldn't hold a zero or you just plain couldn't see a .22 or .30 cal hole in the target at 100yds and very little if any resell value.

The reasons for Leupold are quality, American made, lots of choices (power, reticle, 1" or 30mm etc), they hold their value if you ever want to sell and the lifetime warrenty. The glass is very clear and good contrast.

My .02 cents anyway hope it helps.

Night Force is great stuff, worth spending the extra cash for. But i have to say that I sold my NF to buy an IOR Valdada. Some of the clearest glass I've ever used. It's worth taking a look!

If FFP is not a big deal for you then I would look at getting a used 3-15 NF. You can pick them up for around $1100 and they're super great scopes.

The Viper PST is also a great scope new, but you're best bang for the buck is in something used. I really like the USO ST10 for around $900 used. They're super solid and repeatable with a very large field of view. They're fixed 10 power, but will get you out to 1000yds and negates the need for FFP or SFP.

Just my $0.02

[MOD Edit] I moved this to the Long Range section.

as for the OP, all I can say is "cry once". Get the best optics you can afford.

S&B
Nightforce
Premier
Vortex

All high grade glass.

Cheaper, I've had good luck with Sightron SIII scopes.

Something to consider that may make things a little cheaper. You don't need a 24X scope. I had a 22X Nightforce and sold it for the 15X FFP. Now, I know that the Nightforce is probably out of your price range. BUT I am extremely pleased with the decision to go with the 15X. You'll have no problem shooting to 1000 yards with a 15X scope.

That being said, if you go with something with more power, I would go with the FFP for sure. The mirage will be awful at 24X, so you'll probably be using the scope at a lower power than max. That's when the FFP would be nice since your reticle probably won't be accurate other than at the max power.

Something I would recommend is to have your turrets match your reticle, whether it be MOA or MIL. Having a matched reticle to turret will make things easier. I would also go for FFP if you have the option, I have two that are not and they are workable no doubt but FFP makes me happy. FWIW.

... most times..


you get what what you pay for [Tooth]

Vortex isn't bad... but you can tell the difference in glass between that and a S&B... just saying[Beer]