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10/24/2012 6:04:34 PM EDT
I'm going to try to phrase this question as clearly as I can: at what point is your 5.56 barrel too short to effectively utilize a variable-zoom scope, and you should just stick to a non-magnified optic? In my other thread I made about a build I'm thinking about, people overwhelmingly suggested I simply stick to 5.56. Fine, that's doable. My question then is how long does my barrel have to be to get exceptional velocity out of the round, enough so that a magnified optic can be used to its potential? My guess is 16-18" but I'd like to confirm it with you guys first. I really want to use something with more versatility and range than a fixed zoom, and I'd like to use it in conjunction with a cantilever mount. Those two pieces are kind of non-negotiable for me, so I just need to know what barrel length would be the most beneficial.

My second question is which optic should I buy? I currently have my eye on a few right now: the Leupold Mark 6 1-6x20mm (34mm) M6C1, the Nightforce 1-4 x 24 NXS, and the Vortex RAZOR HD GEN II. What other options should I look at? I'm willing to drop the necessary cash on a quality scope, so if it's up there in price range that's okay. I just want to narrow down my candidates.

Thanks again, everyone!
10/24/2012 6:28:54 PM EDT
[#1]
I have a 2-7x Vortex Viper and a 16" barrel.  Earlier this year I was shooting out to 370yrds and had plenty of reticle left for a longer shot if I needed to make it.  I was shooting cheap AE 55grn brass as well.

ETA-  out of what you listed...Night Force scope.
10/24/2012 6:34:04 PM EDT
[#2]
You can make use of magnification even with an SBR.  Earlier this year I was hitting a steel 1/2 scale buffalo at 500 yards with an 11.5 shooting 55gr Silver Bear, using a 3x power mag behind an Aimpoint Micro.  With better ammo and a better optic with clearly delineated hold overs, it would have been relatively easy.  Hell, lots of guys do that with irons....
10/24/2012 6:36:55 PM EDT
[#3]
My x4 ACOG has a BDC out to 600 meters.  That particular model is for an 14.5" M4 flat top config.
Truthfully all the scopes you mention are top notch.  
I have no issues hitting man size targets with my 11.5" out to 500 meters  with a red dot.  You just have figure you holdover and dope.
I think you are over thinking here.
10/24/2012 6:41:20 PM EDT
[#4]
There's a huge informative thread in the optics section. I'm too lazy to link it, but it really helped me make my decision based on my budget.

I bought a Burris TAC30 I got on discount. Great optic, really fast reticle.
10/24/2012 7:21:21 PM EDT
[#5]
Topic Moved
10/25/2012 6:45:59 AM EDT
[#6]
Just because you can put a bullet on a target doesn't mean that when the bullet hits it will still effectively fragment.  For me, 1-4x on a 16" barrel, a bit more for 18" or 20".
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