Rifle Scopes NXS 3.5-15x56 or 5.5-22x56 ???

[dpreston]

I'm in the market for a new scope so I figured I go all out for a nightforce this time.

Problem is, I want to use this primarily on my tactical 308, but I will also be using it on my varmint gun during parts of the summer. So the 3.5-15 would be perfect for tactical competitions, and the 5.5-22 would be perfect for long range varmints because of the extra top end power.

I'm leaning toward the 5.5-22, but I cant decide if the 5.5 bottom end power is going to be too much and be a pain if I decide to get into tactical competitions like i plan to?

Does anyone use the 5.5-22's as tac scopes?

 

[CSTactical]

Re: NXS 3.5-15x56 or 5.5-22x56 ???

For tactical shooting I would recommend the 3.5-15x50mm. There are guys the use the 5.5-22x50mm for tactical shooting.

Mike @ CST

 

[jasonk]

Re: NXS 3.5-15x56 or 5.5-22x56 ???

I'm a magnification whore, I'd go with the 5.5-22x50 if it were me. I rarely go below 6 or 8 so 5.5 would be plenty low for me in comps.

The extra 7X on the high end will be used a lot more than the 2x on the low end in both varminting and tactical comps.

 

[Rob01]

Re: NXS 3.5-15x56 or 5.5-22x56 ???

I agree with Jason. Also it's much easier to put the scope on 11x and just use double mil holds for movers or holds if needed and the 22x was too much. 5.5x is fine for a low end.

 

[keithtb1]

Re: NXS 3.5-15x56 or 5.5-22x56 ???

If your talking strictly VARMINT hunting, then the 5.5x22 should fit the bill as stated above. The high end will always be helpful when reaching out to further distances on the varmints where they are usually engaged beyond 300yds. But for any type of stalking or hunting within 100yds I would prefer the lower magnification. Our police sniper rifles are actually the 5.5x22's because we prefer to use our scopes for dual purpose; for aiming/spotting since intel gathering is primary duty.

 

[JRose]

Re: NXS 3.5-15x56 or 5.5-22x56 ???

I had both, I preferred the 15x. Matter of fact, I traded off one of my 22x's for a 15x.