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Rifle Scopes What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

Kubitza123

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Aug 15, 2012
806
35
44
Central Texas near Waco
Need a good optic of at least 15x for me new 300win.

FFP isn't a must. Looking for something that tracks perfect and has pretty good glass . Illumination not a must but preferred . More magnification the better but minimum of 15x.

Keep in mind USED is ok with me so models that can be had for 1700 or less let me know.


I know where I can get a new 22x NXS with HS and no ZS for $1520 shipped but have 2 of these already and thought maybe I'd try something new.


Been looking at a like new used 3.5-18x50 IOR ill. For $1675

Let me know what you guys think or if you have something for sale like I'm looking for hit me up with details and pics.

Thanks Mark
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

For that price range I would suggest the IOR you have listed or a Vortex PST
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

NF>IOR. NF doesn't have as many features, but it's tough as nails. Hell, tougher.

Find a good NF 3.5-15 MLR/Mil/ZS and just be done until you are ready for Hensoldt/SB.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

+1 the NF 3.5-15 is the bees knees. I have an F1.

ETA: tough as nails design, with plenty of appropriate clarity. It certainly has all the features that I need (illumination, mil mil). there are other options available on other scopes, but I believe for the same cost your sacrifice in either robustness or tracking ability.

 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

I would go with a used vortex razor. If you couldn't find one of those in your price range I would get the NF way before the IOR. The IOR reticle is redicously thick I was going to get one untill I looked through a buddies. It was great glass just the reticle was terrible.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

Vortex Razor 5-20x50 FFP, Zero-stop, SF, illuminated, Open Box demo from cameraland.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ajwcotton</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> The IOR reticle is redicously thick I was going to get one untill I looked through a buddies. It was great glass just the reticle was terrible.</div></div>

Are you sure you looked through the IOR scope the OP mentioned? I ask because this is a known issue with the 3-18x42 but I'm not sure about the 3.5-18x50mm. I'm trying to track one down to see for myself. I did however see the SFP MOA version when I stopped by Valdada's shop not too long ago and that reticle along with that glass was truly impressive. Of course now I'm looking for a FFP Mil reticle and need to test for low light.

Anyway, one important point you forgot to mention Mark, what is the intended use for the rig? If its tactical or paper only then you might think of a higher magnification range; however, if you intend to hunt and may be in short yardage situations then the wider field of view offered by a 3.5x would suit you much better. I'm going through a similar process right now and trying to figure out the best low light 3.5-18+ scope. So far the Bushnell 3.5-21x50 Elite Tactical is winning out but I'm waiting to get the IOR 3.5-18 and maybe a couple others before I make my decision.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

It would be mostly for punching paper but hunting as well. Also I like to get 15x minimum just in case I decide to move it to a different rifle one day .

I like the looks etc of the 3.5-18x50 IOR and reticle on 18 doesn't seem to large to me?

Don't care for the Razor much myself.

Looking like another new or used NF to go with my other two since I know I like them ,they are good and can be had cheaper than the IOR everyone seems to have doubts about.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

NF and IOR beat out Bushnell HDMR? No one had even mentioned it?

What's the opinions on it or not in the same league?

See plenty of those in $1100 range now F/S
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

I have 3 NF scopes that are used for punching paper and p-dog shooting. The glass is pretty good, but is not nearly as clear as my 1 inch Zeiss and Swarovski scopes on several other rifles (old eyes is part of the problem). I doubt they would still be on the rifles if it wasn't for the great turrets and repeatability when dialing. A good friend I shoot F-class with has Sightron SIII's on all his rigs with great results. The glass seems to be on par with NF from a clarity standpoint and they are much less expensive. I purchased a FFP Premier light tactical this year and really like the glass and reticle in that scope (3-15X50). This is another good option if you are looking for something that is light enough to put on a hunting rifle (23oz)and still give you true capabilities for dialing on targets.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

If you search the web really hard you can find a Nightforce 5.5-22X50 or 5.5-22x56. For the money this scope is hard to beat. I am sure the Vortex are nice as well as others but the Nightforce scopes are PROVEN!!
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

while nightforce's reputation for reliability is top tier. the nxs 5.5-22 I had a year ago underwhelmed me a bit on the optical quality. the IOR 3-18's in the past had problems, but according to many that has been corrected. if you're leaning more towards reliability and tracking then I'd go with another NF, but if you're leaning towards optical quality then I'd get a IOR
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

I sold my NF 5.5-22 and just got an IOR 3.5-18 used here on the Hide. I couldn't be happier. Some have said the reticule is a bit thick but with the open center dot it is very usable. I think the reticule is much better then that on the Razors that I have used.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jon Lester</div><div class="ubbcode-body">HDMR and Ammo with the left over Money. </div></div>

Bingo.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

I would tell you to look at the Leupold MK-4's. I have 25X and love it. The reticle is awesome with a tiny opening in the center that doesn't block what you are trying to look at.

I know everyone loves the NF stuff as well, but, if you are looking to try something new I would tell you try the Leupold. I love mine and it tacks perfect. I have tested it numerous times and have always been impressed with its performance.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

Vortex Razor HD (you can get them used for this price, easily) or a Bushnell HDMR
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Kubitza</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I know where I can get a new 22x NXS with HS and no ZS for $1520 shipped but have 2 of these already and thought maybe I'd try something new.

</div></div>

Let me know where I can get a NF for that price.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

Nightforce or a used Vortex Razor.
 
Re: What scope would you buy for $1700 or less??

I have looked at HDMR but for the money I want illumination .

I'm either adding a 3rd NF to my collection I guess or moving the 22x off my Custom Encore to my new tactical 300win and going to top the Encore with a nice 3-12x50 Zeiss Duralyt Demo from CameraLand I believe , since it's more of a hunting rifle.

Thanks for all your input, maybe one day soon I can get into a Premier .

IOR I decided was not for me I had a few members PM me saying they has terrible luck with them but glass was great , so wasn't worth the risk for me.