Best Bang for the Buck Mid-Priced SIde Focus Scope 3-12, 4-14, or 4-16

[castafly]

I'm in the market for a side focus scope for a varmint rifle (CZ or Rem 700) in the 3-12, 4-14, or 4-16 range. I have a budget of up to $700, but not sure if I want to spend that much. I've looked at Vortex Vipers and Diamondback HPs, Bushnell Ultra HDs, Nikons, Weavers, etc. I've also looked at Leupold VX-3 CDS 30mm scopes (my high end). It's fun to look at scopes in stores, but there's no way I can really tell the finer points of these scopes without actually mounting them on a gun and shooting them. For those of you with more experience than me, what scope would you recommend as the best bang for the buck (including ones I haven't listed)? Would a Leupold VX-3 4.5-14 CDS be worth the money? Thanks!

 

[sparky123321]

Buy a Sightron SIIISS624x50LRMOA SIII SS 6-24x50LRMOA and never look back.

Around $50 more than you wish to spend, so I'd watch for a used one. Sightron has a great warranty, customer service and resale. You can't go wrong.

 

[Raythemanroe]

I would suggest Sightron also





Ray

 

[hogpatrol]

Yep, Sightron.

 

[jonbearman]

I like the sightron's too but I have a 4-16x50 bushnell 4200 which is now the elite. It is exceptionally clear and the side focus does not drift after repeated firing.

 

[kcomeau10x]

I would like to suggest the leupold VXR 4-12x 50 with the Firedot 4 reticle.

 

[makoler]

While slightly above your budget, I suggest you at least look at a Night Force SHV 4-14. Awesome optics.

 

[jsthntn247]

Hard to beat a 6.5-20x50 zeiss for 599 at cameralandny.

 

[dkhunt14]

The glass in the Sightron S111 is really good for the money. It is clear all the way to the edges. I have scopes that cost three times as much money and are not as clear as the Sightron. Matt

 

[SS427]

Sightron are some of the best values for the money, but do crowd your upper $$$ limit. If you want to spend less the Nikon Monarch scopes are pretty nice and you can often find them on sale. Leupold is a solid choice and you would not be disappointed, but you pay a premium for the name. The same power and quality of scope from Sighron or many others will save you money.

 

[huffmanite]

Nothing wrong with the Sightron scope mentioned. But, I suggest you consider a Weaver Super Slam 3-15x42. Have a few Super Slams myself, including the one I've suggested. Very good optics, side focus, and I love the reliable pull-up turrets for elevation and windage in them. Japanese made by Light Optics Works, aka LOW. Now that I think about it, LOW also makes the high end Sightron and Bushnell scopes.

Check www.natchezss.com for them. Several of these 3-15x42 Super Slams to choose from, different reticles. Up to $200 less than your budget allows.