Rifle Scopes Options for US Optics ST-10?

[razor488]

I was watching the video linked below and the guy seemed to be a big fan of the US Optics ST-10. Upon further research, I saw you can order the scope with several different variations. I am new to long range shooting so I don't fully understand what the options are, but you can buy different windage and elevations knobs. The EREK knob is another $175.. Is this option recommended or a must?

Any other scopes you guys would recommend at this price point or cheaper?


Thanks in advance

p.s. - the guy who made that video didn't seem to be a fan of variable magnification scopes until you spend over $2000

 

[DirtyDave]

I dont see a video in your post, but USO does not offer as many options as they used to. They slimmed down their menu to the most popular and practical options.
1st: Decide Mil or MOA. That will cut your Knob and Reticle options in half. You want Mil/Mil or MOA/MOA matching knobs/reticle.
2nd: Will you be dialing your DOPE or using the reticle for holdovers? If Dialing, the EREK is what you want.
3rd: Illuminated reticle? Seems everyone has to have it. Most probably dont use it much. Save yourself the $195. (only time I use a lit reticle is when Spotlighting Coyotes at night)

 

[razor488]

Sorry - the link is SNIPER 101 Part 22 - Scopes - Rex's BEST Picks - YouTube

 

[Crosshair]

DirtyDave pretty much summed it up.
The ST-10 is a great scope, and it is debated to death as far a fixed vs variable. I think as far as 10x optics available right now, my money would be going to the Nightforce 2.5-10x42 Mil-R. I don't see the fixed 10x holding any real advantages anymore over well built variables, but others will disagree. If you need more clarity and robustness than a variable Nightforce (or variable USO for that matter), you got issues, imo.

The ST-10 configured as the equivalent of the Nightforce (Black, illum., EREK, JNG Mil, no buble level) shows $1,671. Eurooptic.com shows the NXS 2.5-10x42 with Mil-R and Zero stop at $1,940. So, $269 difference for similarly equipped scopes, fixed vs variable.
BTW, the MR-10 1.8-10x37 shows $2,341 for the same config.

To me, the biggest selling points of USO's are the reticles available, the very nice EREK knob, and very handy built in bubble level. If you want to toss another $180 in you can get her Cerakoted in several cool colors. Lead times can be awhile though.

 

[DirtyDave]

ST-10, GAP or JNG Mil Reticle, EREK, NO Illumination is $1476. Keep it simple

I wouldn't get Illumination Unless you are hunting with it (why the hell would anyone hunt with a fixed 10x?). Like I said, save the $195. Money is better spent on the EREK knob.