selecting my first fixed-power bench-rest scope

[Quigley_Up_Over]

I have decided to go with a fixed-power (36X at least) scope on my first-ever bench-rest build, which is on a 40X platform. What are some good options out there that will not break the bank? I currently have a Nightforce NXS 8x32 x 56 optic however I do not need the zoom ability and desire the very fine bench rest reticle. Regardless of what I go with, holding zero is obviously of the utmost importance (!)

I am OK paying maybe $750 or even $1,000 for a proper optic, just not some exotic $4,000 scope.

 

[daddycoop]

I personally at the leastest like T36 by weaver then better choice or #1 would be the 45X leupold for 999 area, about 600 difference between the 2, just my opinion though, sell the nightforce and you could have either with change to spare

 

[Steve Blair]

Daddycoop is right on both scopes. The Weaver is a good buy for the money. I do all load development for iron-sighted and varmint rifles with Weaver T36 scopes.

 

[Dgd6mm]

I have a Weaver T24 I like, wish I had the T36. Very pleased.

 

[hawghunter]

I have a T36 on a 30BR and for less than half the price of a Leupold you can't go wrong IMHO Mark

 

[tenring]

It is amazing that so many BR shooters use the Weaver T36. Best buy on the market. I have all the other expensive scopes, and some of them have had problems. Never had a problem with either of my T36's.

 

[SS427]

Another vote for the Weaver 36x. I only sold mine because the fine cross hair became hard for me to see. Had it been the .125 inch dot I would have never sold it, and when I find a good used dot version I plan to buy another one.

The Sightron II 36x and Big Sky model 36x always gets good reviews. And I've never heard anyone complain about a Leupold if you are willing to pay the price.

 

[Steve Blair]

Another vote for the Weaver 36x. I only sold mine because the fine cross hair became hard for me to see. Had it been the .125 inch dot I would have never sold it, and when I find a good used dot version I plan to buy another one.

I can testify to Otter's veracity about his FCH Weaver. I bought it and appreciate its fine qualities. My eyes are no better than his, maybe worse, but the sun is much brighter here in San Diego.

 

[Steave]

I just bought a T-36 for the sole purpose of load development. It just arrived late last week and I haven't had a chance to shoot it, but it appears that it will work very well for my application.