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Rifle Scopes Trying To Balance---USO

H

HOGGHEAD

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Aug 23, 2009
704
1
66
Rivesville, WV
#1
I am trying to make a well balanced decision on a new scope for a rifle I had built. The rifle is a totally reworked 700 in 22-250 with a 28"----1in8 twist Krieger that I am shooting the 75 grain V-Max bullet in. This is strictly a long distance ground hog rifle. For me I consider long distance as shots from 400-800 yards. I realize this is a tactical rifle forum, but I think this post belongs here.

I am needing to buy a new scope for this rifle. And I am considering the straight 17X US Optics scope. I currently have a 16X Leupold, and a 24X Leupold. So I am not new to fixed power scopes. And I find that the majority of the time I have all my varmint scopes on 16X-including the variables I own. So I am positive I can make the straight 16X or 17X work perfectly for this setup.

I realize this is a long post. But I want to be as descriptive as I can so I can receive top notch advice.

I am not new to upper end optics. I have a few Swaro. and W. German Zeiss scopes. So I am accustom to top notch glass. And top notch glass is more important to me than rugged durability.

The other benefit I want for this scope is impeccable tracking. I can afford to buy a more expensive scope like a NF variable, or even the USO variable but I think the 16X or 17X will work perfectly. And I do not want to spend any more money that I have to.

The other feature I prefer to have is exposed turrets, that have good positive clicks. Can I get the USO with 1/4" clicks??

Unfortunately I have no experience with the USO scopes. Nor do I have access to one to fool around with. So what can you guys tell me about the straight 17X USO scope?? Is it worth the price?? Is the glass comparable to Swaro top glass?? Tracking(although I think I know the answer to that)?? Alternatives??

Personally I think the Leupold Mark IV 16X scope is over priced. So I think I have eliminated that choice. Is the USO 17X also overpriced?? Thanks for your help.

I have also looked at the NF BR scopes. But I do not care for the covered turrets. And I do not think I need that much magnification. And I also do not like the 1/8" clicks.

Below is a picture of the rifle with a 6.5X20 Conquest that is going on another rig. Thanks Again, Tom.

IMG_0521.jpg


 
#2
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

If your used to Zeiss glass and dont care about ruggedness and only care about glass quality then I think you will be disappointed in USO. They are the most bombproof, throw off a 5 story building type scope available and for that they are awesome, but they aren't as clear or even close to Zeiss in glass. Ive had a Zeiss, and it surpasses my NF in glass quality, and to my eyes my NF is clearer then the USO's Ive looked through. if glass quality is the main thing your looking for then Id go S&B or Premier, a used Premier 3x15 can be had for about 2k
 
#4
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

Like all things beauty is in the eye of the beholder in what your using it for. I love the varible 3.2 to 17 on my USO. The glass imo is just as good as what was in my premier at the time and the USO tracks like if it were on rails and yes you can get a USO in 1/4 moa adjustments and a MOA reticle to match. There are a few moa/moa USO's here in the optics section right now. The USO is very beefy and it might not be your cup of tea... but as for me... I LOVE THEM.


Playing the devels advocate tho.... sounds like you do not need a FFP optic, if thats the case save some coin and get a varible 5.5 to 22 NF. The adjustments will match the reticle at max power, you can get it in mil/mil with the MLR or mildot reticle and mil turrets or moa/moa with the npr1 or npr2 reticle and moa turrets and with the new hi rev turrets you can get 10 mil of elevation per rotation. They have all the features you have specified plus you will get into a variable and save a little coin over the USO.

You will probably break even to buy a used USO off the optics section here on the hide, verses a New second focal plain NF.

Hope that helps ya.
 
#5
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage110</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If your used to Zeiss glass and dont care about ruggedness and only care about glass quality then I think you will be disappointed in USO. They are the most bombproof, throw off a 5 story building type scope available and for that they are awesome, but they aren't as clear or even close to Zeiss in glass. Ive had a Zeiss, and it surpasses my NF in glass quality, and to my eyes my NF is clearer then the USO's Ive looked through. if glass quality is the main thing your looking for then Id go S&B or Premier, a used Premier 3x15 can be had for about 2k </div></div>

Once again, you show your experience level. How many USO's have you looked through, distance, under varying contions?
USO's may not be the best clarity to some people's eye's. I know I personally told you that they haven't got the best glass I've ever put my eyes through. HOGGHEAD however also put forth the criteria of tracking and 1/4" clicks. The glaring flaw in your statement that leads me to say that you are parroting what you read online again is that you talk crap about USO's clarity, then you turn around and recommmend Premier. I've owned and used both in varying conditions extensively and the USO's give nothing up to Premiers, PERIOD. To say "if glass quality is the main thing your looking for then I'd go S&B or Premier" based on your experience with the NF you recently purchased and the few USO's you've eyeballed you are not doing the poster any service. The 3-15 Premier doesn't fit the criteria of what the OP's looking for at all. (and I don't think S&B makes a fixed in the configuration the OP is looking for).

Variances in clarity (in a defect free example) in top-tier scopes is highly subjective.

Its been my experience that the USO's with IPHY turrets and IPHY reticles of the shooter's choice are an option that is hard to beat (esp since HH mentioned tracking, 1/4" clicks and exposed turrets).

Swaro and Zeiss (with the exception of the Hensoldt line possibly-I've no firsthand experience with the Hendsoldt variables) have great optical glass but usually suffer in the available adjustment.

HOGGHEAD-the ST17 would be a great choice, and can be configured however suits your purposes best-just call USO and they will make sure you get built what you need for your application. If you don't think that a scope being built exactly how you want it is what you are wanting to spend the money on, I would recommend the IOR fixed 16X scope too. IOR has Schott glass (same as Swaro/Zeiss) and it has Euro coating that is similar in methodology to the top end Euro optics. Their fixed line has a great reputation for quality and reliability that may not be shared with their newer variable line. For your intended application the only drawback to IOR and USO would be reticle size, but with the USO there are options of fine reticles in IPHY/MOA that could be had to make you an awesome dogbuster.

 
#8
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

Hogghead,

For fixed power scopes, have you considered IOR's 16x42MM? Click value 1/4 MOA, 100 MOA of adjustment range, and under $900. from Liberty Optics.

IOR glass has always been very good (Schott).

Bob
 
#9
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

I know that I'm biased but I would say go with USO. They build a top notch optic and back it with customer service that is second to none. They are also huge supporters of this industry and support the "little guys". You will not be disappointed.
 
#11
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sobrbiker883</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage110</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If your used to Zeiss glass and dont care about ruggedness and only care about glass quality then I think you will be disappointed in USO. They are the most bombproof, throw off a 5 story building type scope available and for that they are awesome, but they aren't as clear or even close to Zeiss in glass. Ive had a Zeiss, and it surpasses my NF in glass quality, and to my eyes my NF is clearer then the USO's Ive looked through. if glass quality is the main thing your looking for then Id go S&B or Premier, a used Premier 3x15 can be had for about 2k </div></div>

Once again, you show your experience level. How many USO's have you looked through, distance, under varying contions?
USO's may not be the best clarity to some people's eye's. I know I personally told you that they haven't got the best glass I've ever put my eyes through. HOGGHEAD however also put forth the criteria of tracking and 1/4" clicks. The glaring flaw in your statement that leads me to say that you are parroting what you read online again is that you talk crap about USO's clarity, then you turn around and recommmend Premier. I've owned and used both in varying conditions extensively and the USO's give nothing up to Premiers, PERIOD. To say "if glass quality is the main thing your looking for then I'd go S&B or Premier" based on your experience with the NF you recently purchased and the few USO's you've eyeballed you are not doing the poster any service. The 3-15 Premier doesn't fit the criteria of what the OP's looking for at all. (and I don't think S&B makes a fixed in the configuration the OP is looking for).

</div></div>

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">And top notch glass is more important to me than rugged durability </div></div>

The Premier can be had for around his price range used, thats why it was suggested, notice how I even complemented USO that if he was looking for the most bombproof scope available, that would be it... we are on the same page here. I was not talking crap at all, I was merely stating that clarity wise, there are better options for the money, like a used Premier for around 2k, or if he can afford a 2.5k-3k scope, a new S&B. He stated that as long as it tracks true and has awesome glass he doesn't care about the ruggedness, so why does he need a bombproof scope?

Im not tryng to take any business away from USO, as I will probably own one in the future, but when I place my order, I know to not expect the clearest glass, or even close to as clear as Zeiss, S&B and even Nightforce IMHO.
 
#12
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

Guys I appreciate your comments.

Yes I have considered the IOR scope as well in 16X. I was really wanting to stay with a US made optic if possible. And I also like the fact that USO has so many reticle choices. I am sure they would work with me to get the exact reticle I want, and I like that in a company.

From what you guys say the CS at USO is second to none. And that is also very important to me. Along with the fact that they seem like they are here to stay with 20 years in the industry.

I like fixed power scopes. I have 2.5X, 4X, 3(6X), 2(8X), 12X, 16X, and 24X scopes. It seems to me like I get higher glass quality for less money, and they function perfectly for my needs. As well as a fixed power(IMO) is more durable for the long run, with less working internal parts??

I would still like to get a good feel about how USO stacks up to the Swaro. glass. But as stated I can not get the scope in the Swaro. line that I want. And again I would like to go US made on this one.

I have considered the NF, but honestly I am not sold on them yet-even as much as you guys like them. Personally I have just heard too many people say that they do not think the glass quality is up to snuff in comparison. But again please understand, that comment comes with NO FIRST HAND experience.

One last question about the USO 17X. Is there a reason it does not come standard with an AO?? Durability??

As far as the variable scope is concerned I really have no use for the lower range of power in the scope. And I do not think there is a big difference between 22X and 17X. Especially when I normally run into heat mirage problems with scopes above 16X or 17X to start with. So I always turn my higher power variables down to 16X in all my hunting situations. So I am trying to maximize my dollars by buying the exact optic I want the first time. Thanks Again, Tom.
 
#13
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

You guys should take Savage110's posts with a grain of salt. He is a kid who likes to repeat things that he has seen elsewhere on the internet in an effort to appear grown up.
 
#15
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Falar</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You guys should take Savage110's posts with a grain of salt. He is a kid who likes to repeat things that he has seen elsewhere on the internet in an effort to appear grown up. </div></div>
Haha, Ive met Sobrbiker, and Ive looked through the USO's from the guys that do the monthly Phoenix match, Ive shot with quite a few of them too, did I mention Sobrbiker was there when this happened? He knows Im not spewing shit, I do have experience even though its limited but out of the handful of USO's that were there, I did not see one that optically compared to a Zeiss, not even close.

Falar, you shouldn't get involved here, all you do is talk shit over the internet.... Age has nothing to do with experience.
 
#16
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: boone</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Guess I anit going hunting.
frown.gif


On a side note I see you’re up north. I was under the impression pig hunting is only allowed in three southern counties? </div></div>

Ground hogs my friend not bores
grin.gif
grin.gif
. Although I would not mind shooting some bores. They work great on the open pit. Tom.
 
#20
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sobrbiker883</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Tom, if 22X would work for you, then here's a great setup ready to go:
http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...836#Post1977836


I've got no interest in the sale, just pointing a man to a great setup for what he's asking about! </div></div>
Yeah that is a good deal, Id pick it up if thats what your looking for.
 
#21
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

Tom the fixed power USO's that I've used had glass that wasn.t far off from my S&B PMII. Thats one of the benefits to the fixed scopes fewer opportunities for distortion to be caused. The ST17 or the ST22 would be my pick on that rifle especially if it still shoots like I remember it doing.
 
#22
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rhys</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Tom the fixed power USO's that I've used had glass that wasn.t far off from my S&B PMII. Thats one of the benefits to the fixed scopes fewer opportunities for distortion to be caused. The ST17 or the ST22 would be my pick on that rifle especially if it still shoots like I remember it doing. </div></div>

Rhys the rifle shoots better than I can. Thanks to you. I appreciate your recommendation. That 22X is nice, but I think I want either a 16X or 17X. I need to learn a little more about the reticles, and turrets. Then I will probably order a USO. I will just wait for a good sale. You know how cheap I am.
grin.gif
grin.gif
Tom.
 
#23
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

For the turrets I would probably look at the #3. It actually has more clicks per recolution than the EREK. On the other hand you can bottom out the adjustment on the EREK so you have the entire adjustment range available just to go up. The reticle is basicaly your choice just gey one that matches up to the adustment format that you chose in the turrets.
 
#24
Re: Trying To Balance---USO

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sobrbiker883</div><div class="ubbcode-body">with the exception of the Hensoldt line possibly-I've no firsthand experience with the Hendsoldt variables</div></div>

Most of our scopes have lots of elevation adjustment. Some as much as 40 mils.

Our most popular scope, the 4-16FF, has 22.4 mils.
 
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