Best Tracking Optic for $1500 or less

[FeMan]

I would agree that a used NXS is the best bet. The quality isn't as good as Nightforce but I really like the Zeiss Conquest scopes and use them on hunting rifles I practice with out to 1000 yards. Their varmit reticle is the only one with hold off marks for wind. Anyway it certainly isn't better but it is a great value in my opinion and meets your other criteria in my experience. The HD5's are around a $1,000 and I see the lasy tears models for sale at around $750.

 

[Terry]

No body said Sightron?

 

[slm9s]

Used NF NXS 5.5-22. I think NF would take care of you even if you weren't the original purchaser
Sightron SIII 6-24 with LRMOA reticle and newer exposed turrets
you might be able to find a used USO 3.2-17 for $1500, but it would probably be moa/mil
IOR has very nice glass, there were issues way back when with the 3-18, but I think they've been fixed. I've owned a 6-24 and 9-36 with no issues.
Kahles and Steiner now make tactical scopes, but I don't know their exact price range.
Leupold Mark 4's are solid, but have limited mag ranges, and are spendy. They have newer models with better mag range but I have no experience with them.

 

[ToddKS]

The Nightforce warranty is completely transferable. NF will take care of you whether or not you are the original purchaser. I have first hand experience with this.

I have 2 NXS 5.5X22's which I purchased used. When I got the second one I thought the windage turret felt mushy so I called their customer service. After a short phone conversation I was emailed an RMA and I sent the scope back. They quoted me 4 weeks turn time but I received the scope back after only 2 with the issue corrected. I have nothing but good things to say about NF customer service.

 

[NateHaler]

No body said Sightron?

Maybe because you can buy (easily) two Sightrons for the budget!

 

[Patch700]

No body said Sightron?

Maybe because you can buy (easily) two Sightrons for the budget!

.....Not sure where you're going to get 2 Sightron siii's from for around 1500 but sign me up lol..

 

[NateHaler]

The SIII has better glass, but the same tracking mechanism (i.e. outstanding) as their SII line. I use both, and in fact the SII I bought in '99 or thereabouts is my most trusted scope. And it cost me under $250!

Hence my comment.

 

[slm9s]

No body said Sightron?

Maybe because you can buy (easily) two Sightrons for the budget!

.....Not sure where you're going to get 2 Sightron siii's from for around 1500 but sign me up lol..

2 siii 6-24's mil/mil for under $1500
http://www.bigsupplyshop.com/Sightron-SIII-SS-6-24x50-LR-MDCM-25126_p_19378.html

 

[chevytruck_83]

I have a nightforce benchrest that tracks well but I will say for the money I couldnt be happier with my vortex pst front focal plane scope. It tracks very well. Often times ive gone to the range and shot various yardages. ex. shot at 300 then dialed 200 then dialed 100 and hit bullseyes time after time. When you make the adjustment it is good to go on the first shot. no need to shoot 3 and let it settle like cheaper scopes. Also this line offers a front focal plane reticle in moa and turrets in moa. or mil reticle and mil turrets. which suprisingly can cost you thousands of dollars when considering other high end brands. At least consider the vortex.

 

[JamesnTN]

Weaver Burris and bushnell all have tactical scopes in your price range. Also check out swfa as well.