Rifle Scopes Observations & Questions from a Newb

[SlimBlundt]

Observations:
1. Nobody wants to listen to a long-winded thread from a newb, so I'll stick to data points. In order.
2. I've bought and resold a lot of different scopes in order to learn first-hand about different optics. This is easier when you stick to optics that are widely available and attainable by your average enthusiast (Trijicon, Leupold, Nightforce, etc).
3. The more expensive the scope, the more difficult it is to resell if it doesn't float my boat. (This is why I'm anxious and require input).

If I decide to dip into "top tier" optics...

1. Given the similar price point, why would you choose Nightforce ATACR/BEAST over a Schmidt & Bender? The problem is, if I drop $2500-3500 on a scope, I'm going to want to try both. On different rifles, in different scenarios. Frankly, I don't have that kind of money.
2. Are there comparable "top tier" optics that I should be considering?
3. Are there comparable "top tier" optics that don't weigh 2+ fuckin pounds? Weight could sway me.

 

[mrtoyz]

Lightest scope that comes to mind is the new Vortex AMG maybe a March (from memory). Don't really think of the AMG as top tier but close. I understand the desire for light weight but for the most part top tier = heavier IMO.
The true top tier are all so close for me it came down to individual features and deal. The good deal really helps offset any losses if you dont like the scope.
IMO Beast is setup little different wasn't and interest to me.

 

[steve123]

One can find fault with any scope no matter how much it costs. The glass is going to be similar with the top tier scopes so that leaves preferred features left to make a decision over.

For example, I chose the S&B 5-25x56 PM2 because I wanted close focus/10M and the H59 reticle. I already knew the rest of the scope would be high enough quality to not have to worry about not being happy with it. This scope has tunneling from 7x on down to 5x, something I found out from research pre purchase, seeing as the scope is rarely in that mag range the tunneling doesn't bother me in the least. Also the side focus is a tad to easy to turn on one of them.

You could decide on your favorite scope so far and buy it used for a little less than it might actually be worth to the next guy. I've used scopes for years and sold them for what I paid or slightly more.

 

[doshei]

I have two Nightforce and two S&B. They are both good scope makers but the S&B glass is clearly superior to my eyes.

 

[devldogs55]

There are some good deals to be had by SH vendors and others. These deals make it a little easier to buy something like an ATACR and then re-sell if you don't like it. There's a recent thread in this sub forum on deals for ATACRs that is $300 off of retail. I'm sure you could recoup your cost if you wanted to re-sell it quickly in good condition.

Also, I'm a guy who was swayed by weight and went for an AMG. For the purposes of the rifle I put it on - I was not satisfied with the AMG, and sold it to buy an ATACR. I'm extremely pleased, and it's still lighter than a Gen II.

I got over the extra weight as soon as I shot it.

Lastly, I don't check post counts before I read long winded threads.. welcome to the forum!

 

[BurnOut]

I hate to be "that guy", but you may also want to check out the higher end Minox products. The ZP5 is the new hotness right now, but I think that it's competitive with the other optics that you've mentioned. Several of our forum sponsors stock them, and offer great prices (shameless plug for CS Tactical here, as that is where I got mine).

Regarding selling these more expensive optics should you not be happy, check the For Sale section here on the 'Hide... there are a number of deals to be had there, and as a place to sell your stuff, it's a great way to find the right audience/market.

 

[devldogs55]

Agreed, the Optics Classifieds in the PX here on The Hide is a great place to deal. Consider buying used here and you'll get an even better deal.

Also, take a trip out to your local range - especially if they host PRS or Practical Rifle matches. Guys out there will at the very least let you look through their optics. You might get lucky and someone will even let you take a couple of shots.

 

[Fursniper]

All the top tier Alpha type scopes have nice glass, most people are hard pressed to tell the difference. I've been fortunate in that I've had opportunity to look through most of them side by side to my scopes. In the final analysis I think it comes down to either value for some and/or features & reticle choice. Some people want 10 mil turrets & dislike 12 mil (or higher) per turn turrets. Some want illumination others dont. Some will avoid certain scopes for the focus settings, the amount of (or lack thereof) of internal elevation, type of zero stop or a rotating ocular (NF) or for a third "turret" simply for illumination control (SB) or weight issues (gen II vortex), or the warranty flexibility or stated period of coverage or even the color. Some have pretty tricky turret gizmos/features that some are drawn to. I personally think out of the top tier scopes, reticle choice probably carries more weight in buying preferences because it's something you're going to use on every single shot you make with that scope. It's whatever "floats your boat" in features verses costs. So, welcome to "our world" in sorting all of that out, something all of us are constantly doing whenever we get to that point of making a decision on another new scope. You may or may not be able to look through every scope you want prior to a purchase decision, thus one of the great values of a forum exactly like this one, to help you make the best informed decision you can. If you're really uncertain, go used, probably easier to recoup your investment going that route. It's all a compromise in one sort or another. You can make the same great shot with that Beast, a S&B or any one of another half dozen really great scopes. Choose wisely grasshopper......

 

[SlimBlundt]

I'm leaning NF over S&B for two reasons:
1. Familiarity of NF (I've had a couple already, don't know the ins and outs of S&B)
2. Availability of affordable NF scopes (I buy 80% of my gun toys used. Saw a C445 5-25x ATACR go for $1750 this weekend on another site.)

So I know my reasons for leaning NF, I was wondering if there's something I'm missing with S&B because the internet seems to view it as the pinnacle of optics. Where I live, I'll likely never look through an S&B unless I buy one.

Anyhow, I'm still getting my bearings with bolt guns. I have an inexpensive setup and I'll probably stick with it for a year or two before I jump into a big boy gun. I'm asking about S&B and NF scopes now so I can jump on what I want if opportunity knocks.

FYI, my current "learning" setup:
- Rem 700 5R, 308, 24", original trigger (escaped the recall, I like to live dangerously)
- Leupold VX-6 3-18x44, TMOA reticle (19 ounces!!!)
- Talley rings, 20 MOA cant
- Factory HSP stock (plan on bedding it this summer)

Whole setup weighs less than 10 lbs and cost under $2k new.

Friend helped me cook up a few hundred rounds until I get my reloading press and bench setup:

Lapua Scenar 155gr
45gr R15
LC once-fired brass
2870 fps (+/- 2 fps as measured with Labradar)

Once I learn to shoot consistently with this rifle I'll probably venture into something 6.5 and top it with a NF or S&B

Thanks for the input guys!

 

[IanHusaberg]

I'd look long and hard at the Vortex AMG. Value comes to mind. What are you doing with this rifle?

Light weight sounds like hunting to me?

 

[SlimBlundt]

I'd look long and hard at the Vortex AMG. Value comes to mind. What are you doing with this rifle?

Light weight sounds like hunting to me?

I'm pretty utilitarian about stuff. "What can can I use this for?" I have a hard time wrapping up a few thousand dollars in something I can't kill stuff with. I'm not a big hunter but i'm not a benchrest guy either. I just don't want it to be so heavy that hunting is out of the question.

My Rem 700 5R is definitely not too heavy to hunt with. In fact, I'll likely deer hunt this year with an auto-loader weighing about 12 lbs fully loaded, hoofing light terrain but putting on some miles. Next year I'll slap a 1 lb silencer on the end. Most guys I hunt with won't carry more than about 8.5 lbs max.