Rifle Scopes SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

[PaulStafford]

I'm looking for an FFP, mil/mil variable scope under $1000 for my first build (300 wm, Stiller TAC 300, Lilja, XLR chassis). I've found these two.

I have read many reviews of the SS scope, and most reviewers seem to like it. However, looking at the reticle drawing, it appears the dots are huge (maybe .5 mil?) compared to most mil reticles in the 0.2 to 0.25 mil range). The dots in the Weaver appear more like the normal 0.2 mil, and you get a 50 mm objective compared to 42mm in the SS. On the downside, Weaver FOV is only 6.8' compared to 14.5' (wow that seems bad), Weaver exit pupil 3.3 mm vs SS 4.67 mm, and Weaver is 27 oz compared to the SS 19 oz., or 1/2 lb heavier!

Eye relief is similar, cost almost identical at around $600.

any comments on Weaver? glass, customer service, reliability etc? I never seem to see Weaver reviewed here...am I overlooking another scope in same class?

 

[USACS]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

The Weaver is FFP, but it is 1/4MOA adjustment, not .1mil.
With FOV, keep in mind that the maximum magnification is 15x, whereas the SS is 9x. There's going to be a big difference in FOV at those ranges, and 15x is going to be much more narrow.

I've heard great things about the Weavers, and they're a good scope. I think that for the money ($600-$700 range), you're in the right ballpark. Unfortunately, the Vortex Viper PSTs won't be around for a while yet, so if you are in a hurry, these may be the best option for the price point. The only mil/mil FFP that you're going to find in that price range or less is probably going to be the Falcon Menace, and then if you want to take a step up in price, the Bushnell 4200 is probably the next step.

 

[KnightOfNee]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

Glass on the SS is awesome for the price,and you can beat the piss out of them and they hold zero! they get my vote for ruggedness. I am speaking of the fixed 10 power though, I have not messed with the 3-9.

 

[azimutha]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

Paul, I reviewed the SS 3-9X and thought the reticle compared favorably to my NF mil-dot. The glass was also good. The disappointment with the Weaver is, as mentioned by USACS, the mismatched turrets. Kinda shows they don't really get it. The SS 3-9 would be nicer if it was a 3-12 or even a 4-12 (using the same 3X erector) although I prefer 2.5 or 3 on the low end. But it is a great start and equal to most any scope at ranges under 500 yards. I'd rather have the matching turrets and solid construction, then save up money for replacement when this scope is outgrown.

 

[TrapperSGD]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

I have heard that Weaver is coming out with 1/10 Mil turrets on their tactical scopes.

 

[PaulStafford]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

thanks for the inputs, folks!
I completely missed the mis-matched reticle/turret on the Weaver.

After posting, I did find the Bushnell 4200 3-12 for $850.
I like the 12x, but have read in one review the reticle is dim.
any confirmation or not of that?

Is it worth a premium over the SS?

 

[PaulStafford]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

thanks for the inputs, folks!
I completely missed the mis-matched reticle/turret on the Weaver.

After posting, I did find the Bushnell 4200 3-12 for $850.
I like the 12x, but have read in one review the reticle is dim.
any confirmation or not of that?

Is it worth a premium over the SS?

 

[Rancid Coolaid]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

Better glass trumps higher magnification every time.

Over everything mentioned thus far, I'd definitely take the 3-9SS.

 

[sniperaviator]

Re: SWFA SS 3-9x42 vs Weaver 3-15x50

You might take a look at the new Bushnell 3x12. It is FFP, mil/mil, illuminated scope that fits your budget (700 or so).