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Page AR-15 » Optics, Mounts, and Sights
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Posted: 1/4/2010 6:27:39 AM EDT
I finally got my 6.8 running recently, but it's got a cheap Simmons scope I had laying around on it.  The glass isn't great and won't do what I want.  I'd like to see what this rifle can do and I'd like some good glass on it, but due to budget constraints my budget tops out at about $300 and would be better around $200.  I wouldn't mind a scope w/ mil dots if I can get it in my budget.  I may use this rifle for deer next year so it'd have to be something suitable for that.  I was thinking a 3-9 scope, but I'm open to other ideas.  Who makes a good scope that's underpriced for what you're getting?  I'm not looking for cheap.  I want good glass and good reliability.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 6:39:16 AM EDT
[#1]
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 7:00:57 AM EDT
[#2]
The Vortex mentioned above looks pretty good.  Some others you may want to look at are the Leupold VX 1 or Nikon Buckmaster, both for a little more than $200.  Also, the Nikon Prostaff and the new Redfield start at around $130 or a little more.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 7:42:51 AM EDT
[#3]
i think this is still the best bang for your buck, i have one on my AR10 and its stood up to one hell of a beating

http://swfa.com/SWFA-SS-10x42-Tactical-Riflescope-P499.aspx
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 7:46:03 AM EDT
[#4]
I have had good luck with Mueller..

I have the APV and like it and have looked at others (not shot).
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 8:24:39 AM EDT
[#5]
Check the Millet DMS from SWFA, I just got one and its pretty nice, dont get the their mount/scope deal, the mount is from burris and its junk.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 8:31:10 AM EDT
[#6]
Check with EA Brown...he generally has some nice scopes for easy money...and usually has something on clearance for under 300.00 that is usually pretty good.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 8:57:07 AM EDT
[#7]
Check out SIGHTRON's catalog. Very good stuff for very little dosh.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 10:36:35 AM EDT
[#8]
Quoted:
Check the Millet DMS from SWFA, I just got one and its pretty nice, dont get the their mount/scope deal, the mount is from burris and its junk.


I have a DMS, and I think it's a pretty poor optic, but I like my Burris PEPR mount - it's well made and sturdy.  Experiences vary!
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 1:12:47 PM EDT
[#9]
You might check out the Burris Fullfield II line.

The one I bought was a 2-7x35.  It didn't have mildots, but does have compensation lines similar to the ones showed on that Vortex above.  You should be able to find them for under $200, depending on what power.  They have a wide range of different magnifications.  I was very pleased with it for the price.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 2:02:29 PM EDT
[#10]
Quoted:
I would check out our Diamondback line. The 3-9x40 with the BDC reticle would work well. It sells for about $199.

http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-diamondback-3-9x40-riflescope-dead-hold-bdc-reticle

http://www.vortexoptics.com/admin/includes/thumbnail_generator.php?size=large&img=dbk_3-9x40_bdc_f-t.jpg

http://www.vortexoptics.com/uploads/ret_deadhold_bdc.jpg

If you have any questions just let me know. Thanks!

-Sam  

Hey Sam, how do these scopes hold up to center fire rifles, like a 7mm magnum?

Link Posted: 1/4/2010 2:15:35 PM EDT
[#11]
Quoted:
Check the Millet DMS from SWFA, I just got one and its pretty nice, dont get the their mount/scope deal, the mount is from burris and its junk.


I have a Millet DMS-1 as well. Got it for my 6.8 upper. Works very really well.  Got mine at Big River Tactical.

I also have an ACOG, compared to the glass on that, its just okay.  $200 vs $1200 is a big difference, but again, the $200 optic did the job.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 2:26:32 PM EDT
[#12]
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 2:59:48 PM EDT
[#13]
Quoted:
Bushnell 3200


This is cheap as I will go now, they are nice scopes for the money.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 3:17:55 PM EDT
[#14]
Leupold Rifleman from walmart like 200 bucks. and the best repair replacement I have ever witnessed. If you can squeeze out a little more cash get the VX-II yopu will never have to buy another scope they will fix it free for any reason no questions asked.

AL
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 3:38:01 PM EDT
[#15]
Quoted:
Check out SIGHTRON's catalog. Very good stuff for very little dosh.


Something like this?

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=291505


The reviews look good for the money.

( not sure how to make the link hot)

Link Posted: 1/4/2010 3:46:51 PM EDT
[#16]
+1 for the Bushnell 3200 and Nikon Buckmaster.



Mueller is fine for an AR or a light kicker.  They won't stand up to recoil.  I know this first hand.



You can look at the Sample List to see if there is a good scope for sale.

http://www.samplelist.com/


Link Posted: 1/4/2010 3:49:07 PM EDT
[#17]
Redfield 4-12x40
$250
Leupold bought them and started making them. They come with a lifetime warranty.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 4:54:16 PM EDT
[#18]
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 5:41:54 PM EDT
[#19]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Check out SIGHTRON's catalog. Very good stuff for very little dosh.


Something like this?

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=291505


The reviews look good for the money.

( not sure how to make the link hot)





It's not a bad RDS. I have the Pride & Fowler version of same. Not a lot of choices in a 33mm mount, though.

But I was thinking more along the lines of the SII series from Sightron for the OP.  

Link Posted: 1/4/2010 5:49:13 PM EDT
[#20]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Check the Millet DMS from SWFA, I just got one and its pretty nice, dont get the their mount/scope deal, the mount is from burris and its junk.


I have a DMS, and I think it's a pretty poor optic, but I like my Burris PEPR mount - it's well made and sturdy.  Experiences vary!


Compared to what. I have a DMS and I think for the money, it's OK for me. Why do you think it's a poor optic. My mount cost more than the optic, but it holds it's place. I bought a less expensive optic and I think I got my money's worth. Please explain.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 6:09:53 PM EDT
[#21]
I will add my vote for a Vortex. I recently bought and am very impressed with the clarity in a scope that I paid less than $200 for. I bought the 2-7x35 from Optics Planet. Optics Planet sells the 3-9x40 with the BDC for $209.99 shipped. Enter coupon code efb5rc and get 5% off your order bringing it to $199.49 shipped.
I think you would be thoroughly impressed if you bought one. I was.
Oh yeah, I forgot to add a pic.











 
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 6:28:50 PM EDT
[#22]
Vortex is worth a look. I got a Viper and I'm gonna get another when the new line comes out. I'm not gonna tell ya, I told ya so. Just take a look.
Link Posted: 1/4/2010 6:50:23 PM EDT
[#23]
Quoted:
Bushnell 3200


I have this scope and I love it .
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 5:05:17 AM EDT
[#24]
What mount is that?


Quoted:


I will add my vote for a Vortex. I recently bought and am very impressed with the clarity in a scope that I paid less than $200 for. I bought the 2-7x35 from Optics Planet. Optics Planet sells the 3-9x40 with the BDC for $209.99 shipped. Enter coupon code efb5rc and get 5% off your order bringing it to $199.49 shipped.



I think you would be thoroughly impressed if you bought one. I was.





Oh yeah, I forgot to add a pic.



http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn183/bdawg998/PC200208.jpg

 






 
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 5:18:40 AM EDT
[#25]





Quoted:



What mount is that?




Quoted:


I will add my vote for a Vortex. I recently bought and am very impressed with the clarity in a scope that I paid less than $200 for. I bought the 2-7x35 from Optics Planet. Optics Planet sells the 3-9x40 with the BDC for $209.99 shipped. Enter coupon code efb5rc and get 5% off your order bringing it to $199.49 shipped.





I think you would be thoroughly impressed if you bought one. I was.
Oh yeah, I forgot to add a pic.





http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn183/bdawg998/PC200208.jpg


 






 
Here's a link to help you pick a mount.
http://www.maxicon.com/guns/optics/one_piece/ar15_onepiece_mounts.htm
I'm partial to Larue and Armalite.  YMMV.
 
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 7:30:11 AM EDT
[#26]
It's a Larue Tactical LT-104 SPR mount.


Quoted:


What mount is that?


Quoted:

I will add my vote for a Vortex. I recently bought and am very impressed with the clarity in a scope that I paid less than $200 for. I bought the 2-7x35 from Optics Planet. Optics Planet sells the 3-9x40 with the BDC for $209.99 shipped. Enter coupon code efb5rc and get 5% off your order bringing it to $199.49 shipped.



I think you would be thoroughly impressed if you bought one. I was.





Oh yeah, I forgot to add a pic.



http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn183/bdawg998/PC200208.jpg

 




 






 
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 8:09:36 AM EDT
[#27]
Quoted:
I would check out our Diamondback line. The 3-9x40 with the BDC reticle would work well. It sells for about $199.

http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-diamondback-3-9x40-riflescope-dead-hold-bdc-reticle

http://www.vortexoptics.com/admin/includes/thumbnail_generator.php?size=large&img=dbk_3-9x40_bdc_f-t.jpg

http://www.vortexoptics.com/uploads/ret_deadhold_bdc.jpg

If you have any questions just let me know. Thanks!

-Sam  


+1 on Vortex.  I have the Diamondback 4-12x40 on my SPR rifle.  I actually got it for less than I spent on the Larue mount to put it in.

Link Posted: 1/5/2010 10:57:02 AM EDT
[#28]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
Check the Millet DMS from SWFA, I just got one and its pretty nice, dont get the their mount/scope deal, the mount is from burris and its junk.


I have a DMS, and I think it's a pretty poor optic, but I like my Burris PEPR mount - it's well made and sturdy.  Experiences vary!


Compared to what. I have a DMS and I think for the money, it's OK for me. Why do you think it's a poor optic. My mount cost more than the optic, but it holds it's place. I bought a less expensive optic and I think I got my money's worth. Please explain.


Ok, here goes.

My main problem with it, other than it's being too heavy, is critical eye relief, especially at 4x. Your eye has to be in just the right spot behind the scope.  If you move your head just a little left or right, back or forth, you lose the view through the scope.  That slows you down, and is also very distracting when you're trying to hold and squeeze.  I shoot in 3gun competition, and it adds time to the clock.

Another thing is play in the power ring.  I don't know if that is really a problem, but it does not inspire confidence in the quality.  It does seem to hold it's zero, and the adjustments seem fairly precise.  So, it isn't all bad, but there is better low priced glass out there.

For a good, low price scope the Weaver 1-3x (at$150), along with their 2-10x, is one of the best bang-for-the-buck deals around. The optical quality is MUCH better than Millet's.  The lower end Leupolds should be very good values, too.
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 1:19:36 PM EDT
[#29]
I went with the nikon monarch 4x16 and really like it. Picked up on the bay for under $300 and the quality of the glass is very good imho. Plus it is a very compact scope which is an extra perk.
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 1:37:22 PM EDT
[#30]
I picked up the Vortex Diamondback 2-7 BDC several months back and have been real happy with it. Once I sighted it in, it's held zero and the BDC is easy to use. The glass is clear, the contols have a solid feel to them and the CS from Vortex on this site is top notch. I would buy another with no reservations.
</img />
 
 
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 1:58:20 PM EDT
[#31]
Several of the recommendations have been good ones.  Bushnell 3200's, Sightron S2, Nikon lower end are all good choices.

Personally, I also like the Burris Fullfield II with BDC reticle.  Should be about $200.

- AG
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 4:36:19 PM EDT
[#32]
'Nother vote for Vortex.

I've got 2 of them (Viper and a Diamondback), and they are excellent values. They have both been rock solid, have held zero, and both of them did very well shooting "the box".
Link Posted: 1/5/2010 11:38:51 PM EDT
[#33]
Luepold Rifleman 2-7x33
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 12:50:00 AM EDT
[#34]



Quoted:


Bushnell 3200


I have three in that line and I think they are the best value.


 
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 8:09:50 AM EDT
[#35]
What about the Crossfire line?  Specifically this one?  I like the specs I see.   It's got an illuminated reticle, mil dots, and a useful range of magnification.





http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/431
Quoted:


I would check out our Diamondback line. The 3-9x40 with the BDC reticle would work well. It sells for about $199.



http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-diamondback-3-9x40-riflescope-dead-hold-bdc-reticle



http://www.vortexoptics.com/admin/includes/thumbnail_generator.php?size=large&img=dbk_3-9x40_bdc_f-t.jpg



http://www.vortexoptics.com/uploads/ret_deadhold_bdc.jpg



If you have any questions just let me know. Thanks!



-Sam  






 
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 8:44:57 AM EDT
[#36]
I can attest to the Nikon Buckmaster, Bushnell 3200, and the SWFA 10x super sniper all being excellent for the price.
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 9:12:51 AM EDT
[#37]
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 9:23:17 AM EDT
[#38]
Quoted:
I have had good luck with Mueller..

I have the APV and like it and have looked at others (not shot).


+1 - Mueller makes good glass for the money.  I have a 8.5-25×50AO Eraticator™ on a tricked out 10/22.  It rocks.

Check out the SWFA Sample List, too.  I scored an as new TA01B ACOG in the box with all the normal contents for $600 a couple years ago
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 9:27:12 AM EDT
[#39]
After considering more expensive options like the Zeiss Conquest and the Trijicon Accupoint I ended up getting a Nikon Monarch, which is what I had originally planned on getting for my 6.8 in the first place. I bought the 2.5-10 x 42 model with the plex reticle. Most retailers have this scope for $389, I bought mine on eBay for $319 new in box. After years of being frustrated with cheaper optics I won't go cheap anymore. Not that the Monarch is considered high-end by any means, but to me you get a lot for what you pay.
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 10:17:53 AM EDT
[#40]



Quoted:





Quoted:

What about the Crossfire line?  Specifically this one?  I like the specs I see.   It's got an illuminated reticle, mil dots, and a useful range of magnification.





http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/431
Quoted:

I would check out our Diamondback line. The 3-9x40 with the BDC reticle would work well. It sells for about $199.



http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-diamondback-3-9x40-riflescope-dead-hold-bdc-reticle



http://www.vortexoptics.com/admin/includes/thumbnail_generator.php?size=large&img=dbk_3-9x40_bdc_f-t.jpg



http://www.vortexoptics.com/uploads/ret_deadhold_bdc.jpg



If you have any questions just let me know. Thanks!



-Sam  




 


The Crossfire line are nice scopes for the money, but I like the Diamondback line better. I think they are built better, however the Crossfire line will give you the features you mentioned, such as mil-dot and illuminated reticle.



-Sam

 


I just ordered this one



http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-diamondback-4-12x40-riflescope-dead-hold-bdc-reticle



I'll see how it works when it gets here.  



Thanks





 
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 4:13:07 PM EDT
[#41]


I don't think you'll be disappointed. Did you order through Optics Planet as I suggested and use the coupon code??


Quoted:




I just ordered this one



http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-diamondback-4-12x40-riflescope-dead-hold-bdc-reticle



I'll see how it works when it gets here.  



Thanks



 
Link Posted: 1/6/2010 5:59:25 PM EDT
[#42]
Thanks to Vortex Sam,

I just purchased the Vortex Strikefire AR15 model.

Will post pics and comments once it is mounted and sighted.

Great looking piece of equipment.
Link Posted: 1/7/2010 4:15:51 PM EDT
[#43]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Bushnell 3200


I have this scope and I love it .


Based on what you said you want to do with that 6.8, and the interest in mil dot reticle, at that price point there is probably nothing better than the Bushnell Elite 3200, 10X.  I've had terrific results with one on a 5.56 20" HBAR.  Really good and under $200 too.  Buy a good mount though!

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