Scope Help--Tired of just OK

[B23]

Does it absolutely have to be FFP? If not you should be able to pick up a NF NXS 5.5-22x50 or 56 in your price range and if you ever plan on doing any dialing for LR shots NF, with regard to tracking and holding/returning back to zero, are second to none. Optical quality of the NF NXS line, as far as clarity goes, gives up little to more expensive scopes. Where I notice any difference and it's certainly not a huge difference with other high end scopes is in brightness. Some of the other high end scopes are a little brighter. One of the best, optically speaking, scopes I've ever looked through has been the Swaro X5 but I know people that have had trouble with them holding zero. You never hear of anyone having trouble with NF NXS or ATACR holding zero.

If you search around and watch for one you could possibly snag a NF NX8 F1 2.5-20 or 4-32 close to the upper limit of your price range.

I have numerous NF NXS 3-15's and 5.5-22's. A couple NF ATACR's and a NX8 2.5-20. I've had the NXS scopes the longest and used them the most with never a single issue and I've never felt they were lacking with regard to optical quality.

 

[Coyotefurharvester]

My first FFP scope for pd will be a Sightron 26019 with the moa-3 reticle.

 

[BlueWater]

I haven't owned many rifle scopes, over the years. Currently have just one, and I think the glass is exceptionally clear and capable of really sharp viewing over the entire range of lighting conditions.

Athlon Cronus BTR Gen2 -- 4.5-29x, first focal plane. It's a $2000 MSRP scope that can regularly be found at ~$1500-1700 (periodic 'sale' pricing).

Can be found at CameralandNY, Euro Optic, and other vendors.

My own variant has the APRS6 illuminated MIL reticle. (They've got several reticle choices for the scope model, for MIL and MOA, illuminated and not.) Have used it, so far, out to 300yds and in all conditions. On cold, crisp winter mornings, on drizzly afternoons, on hazy hot days with mirage, and with sun from different angles, as well as a just-after-dawn session. Light gathering, clarity and contrast have all been, at least IMO, stellar.

About my only beef would be that it's a tad on the heavy side. Which might make a difference on a hunting gun that's carried a good distance.

Nice scope for the money.

 

[Delfuego]

FFP--that has Really Great Glass--I do not want to buy 4 more to finally find it!

If you are serious about these things, you might want to bump your budget (or look used). $2000-$3000 will get you this. S&B, NF ATACR, Minox, Gen3 Razor, Etc. To a lesser degree Gen2 Razor, Kahles, Athlon Cronus, NF NX8, Etc. If you need it for 22lr, I would take notice of the close focus/parallax settings too.

 

[linedrive301ft]

Dave,
I shot dogs with my Tactical rifles last year. Bipod and rear bag. 223 and 6BR with FFP scopes. 12 to 15 power was all we used. PST, Strike eagle and SWFA scope were on the rifles. The wind and mirage will hand you your lunch every time. Be patient and find what will work for your application.

 

[Nrdon]

I am willing to spend up $1000- $1500 or so--would love to get a great unit for less but....

Brownells mpo 3-18 or 5-25
Element nexus
Athlon Cronus - I have this.

 

[dusterdave173]

THANKS!
I really appreciate the ideas---I will look all of these over and see what will work--
Just the info I needed--

 

[David Milisock]

I am a life long shooter but have been at it more last few years since I retired --Shot rim fire during the pandemic with a 6-24 Vortex Diamondback Tactical--for $320 scope it has served me well--I like FFP and in the sun it is just fine--BUT...in overcast, shade, or anything less than ideal light the contrast is Poor--sharpness is just OK etc
I want to buy a varmint target scope in the same magnification range or close--FFP--that has Really Great Glass--I do not want to buy 4 more to finally find it! The trouble is you can't go many places and actually COMPARE scopes--
I am willing to spend up $1000- $1500 or so--would love to get a great unit for less but....
I see all the Youtube videos but go to the store and" No we dont have that one or that one--"
Name some that I have to look at I will put it on a 223 bolt gun that will be used mostly for target but some prairie dog shooting couple times a year
Help! Thanks!

I'm 67 years old and I've been in business for myself over 30 years building high end art quality architectural projects and a shooter 60+ years. The key to building something that makes a client happy is managing expectations. I suggest you buy what you're willing to pay for but if you want to be happy and successful at making hits, buy for the rifle and the sport. I varmint hunt and FFP is important to me.

My 223 bolt rifle is my most often used varmint cartridge, however mine has a 22" 1 in 12 twist barrel, so in field conditions it's a 350 to 400 yard rifle if the wind cooperates. I can't remember the name but I picked up a scope, it's a 6x18 FFP 50mm I picked up at a gun shop. I was there when it came in grabbed to up for under $100. I walk/stalk hunt and I would be embarrassed to use a bench in the field, (my old man would turn over in his grave) so falling with an expensive rig would piss me off. However I also don't take questionable shots, if I aim for the head and make a body hit, I figure that a miss. If I miss it's never the scopes fault.

If your 223 has a 26" tube and a high twist rate, you can shoot 69 grain or heavier projectiles, you may justify spending $500 or $1,500 on a scope. Just remember that depending on your standards it's not going to make a 223 anything more than a 223. A heavier projectile will do a bit better in the wind but with small targets range estimates become more critical due to the arc in the trajectory. In gusty winds at 600 the drift can be 4 tines a Prarie dogs width, I've never seen a 223 load that could suit my standards much out past 350 or 400 yards.

For Peter Pan to fly he had to find his happy thought, you'll need to find yours. Is it 1 shot 1 hit, 2 shots 1 hit or are you willing to go 5 shots 1 hit. I see more of the 3+ shots per hit than the 1 shot 1 clean kill mindset.

My 6MM Remington has an older Redfield it's a decent 600 yard varmint if the wind cooperates. My 358 magnum long range elk rifle has a (new at the time old now) 50mm Redfield Ultimate Illustrator. If you're within a 1/2 mile you're mine.

My PA deer rifles are all iron sights unless they had a scope when I got them. If you're competing, even if you're only half serious don't be cheap, spend your top budget and get quality.

 

[CharlieNC]

I'm 67 years old and I've been in business for myself over 30 years building high end art quality architectural projects and a shooter 60+ years. The key to building something that makes a client happy is managing expectations. I suggest you buy what you're willing to pay for but if you want to be happy and successful at making hits, buy for the rifle and the sport. I varmint hunt and FFP is important to me.

My 223 bolt rifle is my most often used varmint cartridge, however mine has a 22" 1 in 12 twist barrel, so in field conditions it's a 350 to 400 yard rifle if the wind cooperates. I can't remember the name but I picked up a scope, it's a 6x18 FFP 50mm I picked up at a gun shop. I was there when it came in grabbed to up for under $100. I walk/stalk hunt and I would be embarrassed to use a bench in the field, (my old man would turn over in his grave) so falling with an expensive rig would piss me off. However I also don't take questionable shots, if I aim for the head and make a body hit, I figure that a miss. If I miss it's never the scopes fault.

If your 223 has a 26" tube and a high twist rate, you can shoot 69 grain or heavier projectiles, you may justify spending $500 or $1,500 on a scope. Just remember that depending on your standards it's not going to make a 223 anything more than a 223. A heavier projectile will do a bit better in the wind but with small targets range estimates become more critical due to the arc in the trajectory. In gusty winds at 600 the drift can be 4 tines a Prarie dogs width, I've never seen a 223 load that could suit my standards much out past 350 or 400 yards.

For Peter Pan to fly he had to find his happy thought, you'll need to find yours. Is it 1 shot 1 hit, 2 shots 1 hit or are you willing to go 5 shots 1 hit. I see more of the 3+ shots per hit than the 1 shot 1 clean kill mindset.

My 6MM Remington has an older Redfield it's a decent 600 yard varmint if the wind cooperates. My 358 magnum long range elk rifle has a (new at the time old now) 50mm Redfield Ultimate Illustrator. If you're within a 1/2 mile you're mine.

My PA deer rifles are all iron sights unless they had a scope when I got them. If you're competing, even if you're only half serious don't be cheap, spend your top budget and get quality.

You hit the nail on the head concerning expectations. The OP stated better than OK, with a price max; but we all express an opinion based on our perspective.

I'm not a scope snob but insist it meet my expectations, and I'm not willing to spend 5X more just to get the best for other non-mandatory factors. For the money and this application I'd suggest an Arken ED!

 

[Rick in Oregon]

I'd just ask why you're firm on a FFP scope for target and some PD shooting. Most times using FFP for this in the field, I've found that the reticle obscures a small target much past 300 yards. This is the reason most everyone I know that is experienced shooting colony rodents uses SFP scopes in order to actually see that tiny critter way out there.

 

[nakneker]

Used isnt a bad way to go. I’ve seen quite a few good deals here and elsewhere on good glass. Heres one example. I’ve owned this model before and liked it, I currently have other Steiners too and think highly of them. Lots of top tier glass in the classifieds, just check the seller’s history and make sure there is good feedback. I always call and chat before buying high ticket items. I’ve seen some Schmidt and Benders, Mark 5s, and others go for really reasonable prices lately.

SOLD/EXPIRED - Steiner Tx5i 5-25x56 Scope w/ Seekings Rings

Steiner TX5i 5-25x56 Rifle Scope with Seekins Precision Rings 34mm tube FFP 34mm low rings....if you dont want the rings, knock off $50 $1150 $1075 $1050 shipped

www.longrangehunting.com

another used one, great scopes, great price.

SOLD - Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 PR1-Mil

Selling a Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 FFP rifle scope with the PR1-Mil Reticle. Adjustments are 1/10th mil. Ships in original box with scope caps, sunshade, wrench, and all papers. Cashiers Check, MO, or Personal Check preferred. Asking $1560 shipped.

forum.accurateshooter.com

I know you said FFP but I wanted to show you a deal on a new Trijicon, 2 of them in your power range. I’ve never seen them discounted this much. I bought the 3-18x. Probably the best value going on high quality glass currently.

Trijicon Tenmile 4.5-30x56 SFP Long-Range w/ Red/Green MRAD Long Range, 34mm, Matte Black Riflescope 3000015 For Sale | SHIPS FREE - EuroOptic

FREE SHIPPING on Trijicon Tenmile 4.5-30x56 SFP Long-Range w/ Red/Green MRAD Long Range, 34mm, Matte Black Riflescope 3000015

www.eurooptic.com

Trijicon Tenmile 4-24x50 SFP w/ Green LED Dot, MRAD Ranging, 30mm, Matte Black Riflescope 3000008 - Light ring marks

Trijicon USED Tenmile 4-24x50 SFP Riflescope w Green LED Dot MRAD Ranging 30mm Tube Matte Black 3000008 - Light Ring Marks UA4710

www.eurooptic.com

 

[B23]

I'd just ask why you're firm on a FFP scope for target and some PD shooting. Most times using FFP for this in the field, I've found that the reticle obscures a small target much past 300 yards. This is the reason most everyone I know that is experienced shooting colony rodents uses SFP scopes in order to actually see that tiny critter way out there.

This was my experience with the FFP I had on my CZ 527 204 Ruger. I really tried to like it but on smaller critters, at distance, when I'd crank the power up the reticle gets bigger and covered up the target much more than I liked.

 

[Hondo64d]

I am a life long shooter but have been at it more last few years since I retired --Shot rim fire during the pandemic with a 6-24 Vortex Diamondback Tactical--for $320 scope it has served me well--I like FFP and in the sun it is just fine--BUT...in overcast, shade, or anything less than ideal light the contrast is Poor--sharpness is just OK etc
I want to buy a varmint target scope in the same magnification range or close--FFP--that has Really Great Glass--I do not want to buy 4 more to finally find it! The trouble is you can't go many places and actually COMPARE scopes--
I am willing to spend up $1000- $1500 or so--would love to get a great unit for less but....
I see all the Youtube videos but go to the store and" No we dont have that one or that one--"
Name some that I have to look at I will put it on a 223 bolt gun that will be used mostly for target but some prairie dog shooting couple times a year
Help! Thanks!

Look at the Tract Toric scopes.

John

 

[Kracken McGraw]

I sure think your right on your 6-24 x50 type power scopes. My Sightron’s second focal planes are my favorites.

 

[Gary in MD]

I’d also recommend Tract Toric.

 

[bloc]

Does it absolutely have to be FFP? If not you should be able to pick up a NF NXS 5.5-22x50 or 56 in your price range and if you ever plan on doing any dialing for LR shots NF, with regard to tracking and holding/returning back to zero, are second to none. Optical quality of the NF NXS line, as far as clarity goes, gives up little to more expensive scopes. Where I notice any difference and it's certainly not a huge difference with other high end scopes is in brightness. Some of the other high end scopes are a little brighter. One of the best, optically speaking, scopes I've ever looked through has been the Swaro X5 but I know people that have had trouble with them holding zero. You never hear of anyone having trouble with NF NXS or ATACR holding zero.

If you search around and watch for one you could possibly snag a NF NX8 F1 2.5-20 or 4-32 close to the upper limit of your price range.

I have numerous NF NXS 3-15's and 5.5-22's. A couple NF ATACR's and a NX8 2.5-20. I've had the NXS scopes the longest and used them the most with never a single issue and I've never felt they were lacking with regard to optical quality.

Agree. It's hard not to be impressed with this torture test.

The first NXS torture test I saw was of a guy putting 3 shots in a small group at 100 yards. Scope removed and thrown twice to target. Banged a couple of times on a log, thrown back to the shooting bench where it was torqued onto rifle with the same value as it had before.

Next shot was right into the first group.

 

[dusterdave173]

I have been looking at the Tract Toric -----I am not dead set on a FFP but the Toric has an open dot style cross hair that would seem to help on the issue of covering the target--I just loved the FFP at my home range but only have had one single PD hunt of two days--so I was such a rookie--made so many mistakes--who knows? Maybe I should have had a SFP-----
I target all year and plan on PD shoot once or twice a year forever! Man! It was best fun ever with whatever rifle or scope--I just want to be better next time--My Vortex works perfect in bright sun-at any distance--but overcast, cloudy, or anything past 150 in those conditions--then it looks weak--no contrast, no color, sharpness poor at infinity type ranges
Anyone here OWN a Tract Toric ??that can chime in compare it to what you had before ??
Thanks!!!

 

[VaRandy]

I’m an absolute optics snob and the only things I can think of that I’ve actually used under 1500 are Leupold HD and Swaro Z5.

Great glass is expensive…. NF NXS glass is better than Vortex Diamondback but still not what I’d call “good.”

We all want the best glass we can afford but it does not cost a fortune to take care of business at .223 ranges!

 

[Gary in MD]

I have been looking at the Tract Toric -----I am not dead set on a FFP but the Toric has an open dot style cross hair that would seem to help on the issue of covering the target--I just loved the FFP at my home range but only have had one single PD hunt of two days--so I was such a rookie--made so many mistakes--who knows? Maybe I should have had a SFP-----
I target all year and plan on PD shoot once or twice a year forever! Man! It was best fun ever with whatever rifle or scope--I just want to be better next time--My Vortex works perfect in bright sun-at any distence--but overcast, cloudy, or anything past 150 in those conditions--then it looks weak--no contrast, no color, sharpness poor at infinity type ranges
Anyone here OWN a Tract Toric ??that can chime in compare it to what you had before ??
Thanks!!!

I have two of the Tract Torics. Both of mine are the 3-15x50. One is on my 220 Swift and the other is on a 240 Weatherby, both accurate hunting rifles. Just had the Swift out yesterday to check zero and it put 3 shots right where they should be. I’ve only had them about a year but I’m very pleased. The glass is very clear and bright but more importantly to me, they track and adjust as they should and hold zero. Got an email from them, they are getting ready to have a warehouse sale.

 

[David Milisock]

We all want the best glass we can afford but it does not cost a fortune to take care of business at .223 ranges!

To some people a 223 is a 1,000 yard field rifle. Not me.