Rifle Scopes Clarity and Durability

[J322]

So that's that... My requirements for a good scope is quality glass that will take some abuse.

It must also be a fixed 10x. (in my experience, fixed has always been clearer, more durable and easier on the pocket. I know the $4k scopes "might" have the same durability but I have no need to spend over $2k. It will be placed on a GAP .260 avg. dist. of 300-800m)

I think SWFA has the best deals so my selection has come down to these:

Schmidt & Bender 10x42 = 2.0K
US Optics 10x44 = 1.6K (Illum)
Leupold Mark 4 10x40 = 1.4K
US Optics 10x37 = 1.4K (Coated)

So what's your take on glass quality, durability and selecting the right obj. size. The slimmer/lighter weight with the small obj. lens is appealing but would I regret it due to clarity?


I've shot thousands of rounds with the Mark 4 in the Army so the reticle type is not a big issue. Thanks!

 

[sib1948]

Re: Clarity and Durability

I would go with the latter two just for cost savings, but think the S&B would definitely have the best optics.

 

[J322]

Re: Clarity and Durability

The latter two also have the smallest obj. lens. will that be an issue?

 

[tylerw02]

Re: Clarity and Durability

It's 2013. No need for a fixed power. For $2k, I'd get a Nightforce F1. No reason to stay fixed these day.

 

[J322]

Re: Clarity and Durability

I am no longer sighting in haji so my need for a real B4 scope isn't really needed. I just feel like I can get more glass for my money with a fixed.

I used nightforce during my second deployment and I think I liked it better just because it was the new kid on the block at the time. But realistically I don't think I would have known the difference other than the eye relief.

I think I got so sick of all the extra sh** we kept on getting, that I am now a fan of having simple and clean items. (Don't get wrong though... that sh** it would shine oh so bright when we used it)

I just posted this thread because I have never looked through a Bender or US optic, nor have I extensively researched obj. lens in each company. I mean isn't this is what snipershide all about. The bored/lazy mans book?

Thanks for the reply tyler and ya that probably is the better answer but I just would love to get a fixed.

 

[Redmanss]

Re: Clarity and Durability

I hear you on wanting the simple side of things. Got the money and want the best and lightest? Go with the S&B. Want illumination and/or adjustable parallax? Go USO with ERGO parallax. On a budget but want a clear and durable scope with adjustable parallax? Go SWFA SS HD 10x42 at $799.

I wouldn't even consider the Leupold due to lack of M5 (mil) turret availability. I'll never do moa/mil again.

 

[Sonic Crack]

Re: Clarity and Durability

go S&B and dont look back

 

[Lafayette]

Re: Clarity and Durability

Problem with the SB PMII 10X is the lack of parallax adjustment.

 

[Rob01]

Re: Clarity and Durability

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: J322</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I just feel like I can get more glass for my money with a fixed.
</div></div>

With the scopes you listed you will get less scope for more money with a fixed 10x power. This isn't 1990 anymore. Good power range variables that can take abuse are all over. Look at what the military uses now.

If you are only shooting big man sized targets then 10x will be fine but if you plan on shooting smaller MOA sized targets you will find it lacking. 15-20x on the high end is a much better place to be as you can't hit what you can't see.

You are only doing yourself a disservice buying a 10x scope for $1500-2000. But your money and you have to live with it.

For your price range I would look at Vortex Razor, Bushnell HDMR, SWFA SS 5-20, or a SFP NF would work as well of you didn't need FFP.

 

[neeley205]

Re: Clarity and Durability

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rob01</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: J322</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I just feel like I can get more glass for my money with a fixed.
</div></div>

With the scopes you listed you will get less scope for more money with a fixed 10x power. This isn't 1990 anymore. Good power range variables that can take abuse are all over. Look at what the military uses now.

You are only doing yourself a disservice buying a 10x scope for $1500-2000. But your money and you have to live with it.

For your price range I would look at Vortex Razor, Bushnell HDMR, SWFA SS 5-20, or a SFP NF would work as well of you didn't need FFP. </div></div>
Pretty much this. Its you're $$, but if your asking people. .

 

[jerry1]

Re: Clarity and Durability

If you are fixed on straight 10x then the S&B would be very hard to beat.

 

[hk dave]

Re: Clarity and Durability

At what you're spending, I'd get a Nightforce F1 with MLR2 reticle and be done with it.

 

[TallShot]

Re: Clarity and Durability

If it were me, and I HAD to have a quality fixed 10x..... I'd get the SS HD 10x, save several hundred dollars, and buy ammo. I see no need to spend over 1k for a fixed power.

Just IMO tho....