Rifle Scopes help with optics

[turret]

i'm new to long range shooting (beyond 200), and new to scopes/magnified optics as well. i have a 700p on the way, and am trying to decide on which optic. i've pretty much settled on the vortex viper pst 4-16 mil/mil FF. mostly because it has the features i want, gets good reviews, and fits the budget (sub 1k). i/m thinking i want ~4-16 power, mil/mil (if i have to learn a system from scratch, it seems like this is the best one to learn), illum is nice, FF seems the way to go, and eliminates possible errors and more calcs on my part. is there anything i'm missing?

i've also somewhat settled on a badger steel 20 moa base, and seekins rings ( i believe medium is what i need, please correct if wrong). they both seem good to go, and the steel base just seems right to me.

is there any direction i can be pointed in for learning how to properly mount all of this? a guy i work with and shoot with occasionally, says he can do it, but honestly i'm not sure i want to trust him with all of my new toys. he's got a barska on his .308 (nothing personal to anyone that owns one), and some of the research i've read and relays, he scoffs at. a step by step somewhere online would be great. also what tools would be needed?

thanks for any help!

 

[CMonty256]

Re: help with optics

As far as your optics choice is concerned, would you be against purchasing a used scope? it would give you a lot more buying power if you're willing to buy used.

 

[Slapchop]

Re: help with optics

Here are a couple of informative videos on how to properly mount your gear on your rifle.

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You can also use the search function on here and you'll get a ton of useful info on how to do what you're trying to do. Nothing against your buddy but it's probably better that you learn to do this yourself. Not only is it good to know but if something breaks down, at least you'll have an idea on how to fix it.

 

[Slapchop]

Re: help with optics

I almost forgot, don't go all crazy on using fancy levels to level out your scope etc. A regular bubble level, small enough that you can place on the turrets and a cheap set of automotive feeler gauges are all you need.

Good luck.

 

[turret]

Re: help with optics

slapchop, thanks a ton for the vids! now i feel more confident with doing the mounting myself.

any other thoughts or helpful hints from anyone are greatly appreciated.

 

[turret]

Re: help with optics

what are the pros/cons to 4/4 and 4/6 cap screw rings? i 've searched and can't find a reason on which to go with?

 

[Boomholzer]

Re: help with optics

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: turret</div><div class="ubbcode-body">what are the pros/cons to 4/4 and 4/6 cap screw rings? i 've searched and can't find a reason on which to go with? </div></div>

The 6-screw obviously has more contact area on the claw base against the rail and on the scope tube for added tube support. Does it provide any significant advantage or make up for short-comings with the 4-screw ring? IMO no; its just unnecessary added weight. I believe most people opt for them based on looks.

 

[turret]

Re: help with optics

thanks for the help. viper pst, base, rings, flip-ups and stock pack on the way....i'll have to pick up some feeler gauges and a small bubble level.