Varmint scope

[Seamaster31]

I believe that it is time for a new varmint scope for one of my rifles. This one is a .223 bolt rifle that I normally use for shooting approximately 200 - 400 yards on small fairly stationary varmints, and of course some paper targets also. My choice is usually a NXS, but I would like to try something different and probably less expensive. Perhaps somewhere in the $700 - $900 range. Top end magnification somewhere in the 25X - 30X range. Suggestions are welcomed and would be appreciated.

 

[JSH]

I have really come to like the Sightron S-TAC for some of my varmint rigs.

 

[Knotwild]

Based on my limited experience, I'd buy a Sightron 6-24x50 sfp. Or there are some awesome deals on S-TAC 3-16 ($274) and 4-20`s right this very minute. Graf & Sons. As a matter of fact I believe there is a new Zeiss 6x24 on sale.

I don't own one, but I'd give serious consideration to
Meopta 4x20


Sightron 3x16
Sightron 6x24 MIL

Edited to add this: I read somewhere that the SFP S-TACS are made in the Philippines and the FFP S-TACS, which include a zero stop are made in Japan. The Sage Rats Optics database also notes them being made in the Phillippines and in Japan. For what it's worth, the reviewer indicated the glass seemed nicer in the FFP.

 

[YBPS]

You could try a Night Force Bench Rest. They can be had used for $900 ish. Nice glass….

 

[mudduck]

If your the best bang for your buck I think I’d go with a sightron 8-32

 

[Seamaster31]

I will probably put a Sightron III or another NXS 5.5-22 on the rifle, but I don't want to have a closed mind to other options. I don't dial for wind and sure would not mind a scope that had a smaller dial for a varmint rifle. Please share your thoughts if anything else springs to mind. Thanks for the input guys.

 

[1raggedhole]

Hands down the best for prairie dogs is Leupold VX3 with varmint reticle in 6.5-20 or 8.5-25. Great reticle for wind and distance. Swaro and others have similar “Christmas tree” type reticles, but the Leupold is hard to beat with lifetime warranty and price.

 

[Ironworker]

Meopta Optik 6

 

[jepp2]

Hands down the best for prairie dogs is Leupold VX3 with varmint reticle in 6.5-20 or 8.5-25.

Interesting how different folks have different opinions (and I am not saying yours is wrong). When I got serious about prairie dog hunting I quickly found I needed something with more reference (I hold over, don't dial). The 4 plex once I got into the bold portion for wind holds, I had no reference for repeatability.

So I went down the Leupold VX-3 with VH reticle route. Think I had 5 or 6, but found they just didn't work for me. So I made others happy owners of my scopes.

For my 17 HMR/Mach 2, I really like the Sightron S-Tac 4-20 MOA-2 reticle. For my centerfires everything got standardized on Vortex on the Viper HS LR 6-24 FFP. When I bought my first one, I didn't even realize it was FFP or know what that meant for me. The beauty of being able to change power as the conditions (mirage) changes, and my holds remain the same is a real benefit. My normal shot is 200 yards, 10mph cross wind. I shoot that all day long once the wind starts. I know I need to hold 3MOA into the wind for the 6 inch drift that will occur. Shoot with the same hit percentage as I do before the wind starts.

Which will work better for you is the question.

Leupold VH retice


Or a Christmas tree style reticle?

 

[1raggedhole]

Interesting how different folks have different opinions (and I am not saying yours is wrong). When I got serious about prairie dog hunting I quickly found I needed something with more reference (I hold over, don't dial). The 4 plex once I got into the bold portion for wind holds, I had no reference for repeatability.

So I went down the Leupold VX-3 with VH reticle route. Think I had 5 or 6, but found they just didn't work for me. So I made others happy owners of my scopes.

For my 17 HMR/Mach 2, I really like the Sightron S-Tac 4-20 MOA-2 reticle. For my centerfires everything got standardized on Vortex on the Viper HS LR 6-24 FFP. When I bought my first one, I didn't even realize it was FFP or know what that meant for me. The beauty of being able to change power as the conditions (mirage) changes, and my holds remain the same is a real benefit. My normal shot is 200 yards, 10mph cross wind. I shoot that all day long once the wind starts. I know I need to hold 3MOA into the wind for the 6 inch drift that will occur. Shoot with the same hit percentage as I do before the wind starts.

Which will work better for you is the question.

Leupold VH retice
View attachment 1428645

Or a Christmas tree style reticle?

View attachment 1428646

Certainly understand why you like the FFP, but I usually set power at around 16-18x and never change since most shooting is between 150-400 yds. I also like the simplicity of the Leupold VH because it is not too busy, so it is easy to remember and nice from mound to mound without losing reference. As you said, definitely some personal preference. Good comments..

 

[powderbrake]

I have the 8-32 NXS's on my prairie dog guns, but on my 223 bolt gun I use the Leupold 8.5-25.
They can be found used in your price range.