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Posted: 4/1/2017 6:07:06 PM EDT
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I want to get a variable power scope that goes to at least 9x. I want something that is very durable. If it falls or gets hit that I won't be worried about it holding a zero. I'd also like to be under $500.
Thoughts on bushnell AR optics ruggedness? Or the Nikon 223 series? Suggestions? |
| Vortex recently discontinued the Gen 1 PST models (they're releasing the Gen 2), but you can still find them. The 2.5-10x44 PST (not HS, which is not illuminated) is a very nice scope and can sometimes be found for under $500. It's second focal plane, unlike the 2.5-10x32 PST, but for 2.5-10, that's not such a big deal. Plus, you can feel a slight click at 2.5x, 3.3x, 5x and 10x, and it's not too hard to adjust the scope's markings (in your head) for the lower three magnifications. |
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Thanks for the info. I have zero experience with Leupold, so this might be a dumb question but do you get the same reliability with all models of leupold scopes? Like the rifleman model?
Are there certain models to stay away from? Last question are Nikon, bushnell and vortex on the same level as leupold or how would you rate them? Lot of questions but I'm new to using scopes. Thanks |
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Quoted:
Thanks for the info. I have zero experience with Leupold, so this might be a dumb question but do you get the same reliability with all models of leupold scopes? Like the rifleman model? Are there certain models to stay away from? Last question are Nikon, bushnell and vortex on the same level as leupold or how would you rate them? Lot of questions but I'm new to using scopes. Thanks All of the mentioned brands have lifetime warranties, though you may want to make sure the Bushnell model mentioned has one. When comparing similar models, most of these brands fare very well against each other. I will say, when the P-223 goes on sale for $100 or so, it is a great bargain, with really good glass for the money. At $150, it's still not a bad choice. The M223 3-12x for $350 is a great power range. Leupold by far gets weight right. Of the brands mentioned, they are the ones whom have had military contracts. If you can't swing the VX-R, the AR model is $100 or so less is a good deal. |
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Wesr228,
Thanks again for the input. Would you say the Nikon is on par with the leupold model. I want the security of knowing the rifle/scope can be abused and I build all my rifles with the mindset that I could use it to defend my family. I really appreciate all the help!! |
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Quoted:
Wesr228, Thanks again for the input. Would you say the Nikon is on par with the leupold model. I want the security of knowing the rifle/scope can be abused and I build all my rifles with the mindset that I could use it to defend my family. I really appreciate all the help!! I believe the Nikon's are a bargain. The new ones seem to have better turrets than the some of the VX-I Leupolds, much better than some of my old VX-II's. The M Series Nikon's cost a bit more, but have even better glass. The VX-R's have great glass, and the fire dot is like aimpoint bright. It's also auto on and auto off; so when you're sitting in a stand, or in your closet/safe, it's not burning batteries, but by the time you lift it to your eye, it's on like a 3x red dot. MS556 has had the same battery in his for like a year. At the end of the day, optics are so objective it really comes down to the users needs. I like my VX-R, but wouldn't be upset with a Nikon. If you have a decent sporting goods store around you, chances are you will be able to look through a Nikon, and maybe even a VX-R (though maybe not the Patrol model). |
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Quoted:
It's hard to give a definitive answer to that question. I would say either would serve you well for standard hunting, 4 wheel riding, self defense, and the standard abuse. Neither of these options are a Nightforce you feel you could also use as a hammer. They have great warranties. Nikon has Spot On, where you can match the BDC reticle to your own load (check out the website). The VX-R Patrol has the TMR reticle so you can match it to any load also, would just have to use a ballistics calculator (like Spot On). I believe the Nikon's are a bargain. The new ones seem to have better turrets than the some of the VX-I Leupolds, much better than some of my old VX-II's. The M Series Nikon's cost a bit more, but have even better glass. The VX-R's have great glass, and the fire dot is like aimpoint bright. It's also auto on and auto off; so when you're sitting in a stand, or in your closet/safe, it's not burning batteries, but by the time you lift it to your eye, it's on like a 3x red dot. MS556 has had the same battery in his for like a year. At the end of the day, optics are so objective it really comes down to the users needs. I like my VX-R, but wouldn't be upset with a Nikon. If you have a decent sporting goods store around you, chances are you will be able to look through a Nikon, and maybe even a VX-R (though maybe not the Patrol model). Quoted:
Quoted:
Wesr228, Thanks again for the input. Would you say the Nikon is on par with the leupold model. I want the security of knowing the rifle/scope can be abused and I build all my rifles with the mindset that I could use it to defend my family. I really appreciate all the help!! I believe the Nikon's are a bargain. The new ones seem to have better turrets than the some of the VX-I Leupolds, much better than some of my old VX-II's. The M Series Nikon's cost a bit more, but have even better glass. The VX-R's have great glass, and the fire dot is like aimpoint bright. It's also auto on and auto off; so when you're sitting in a stand, or in your closet/safe, it's not burning batteries, but by the time you lift it to your eye, it's on like a 3x red dot. MS556 has had the same battery in his for like a year. At the end of the day, optics are so objective it really comes down to the users needs. I like my VX-R, but wouldn't be upset with a Nikon. If you have a decent sporting goods store around you, chances are you will be able to look through a Nikon, and maybe even a VX-R (though maybe not the Patrol model). 
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Thanks guys. The insight is invaluable.
MS556 I'm going for the same set you have there. Im going to take a ride to Cabelas to look through the Nikon m series and whatever leupolds they have. Then keep a lookout on the EE. Every scope I've had has been a cheap POS! |
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