Rifle Scopes Vortex PST gen1 6-24,50

[darrencontino]

Good Morning, New Here and thank you for the add.

I am old to shooting but brand new to anything long range with the exception being having fun with my open sighted M1 Garand. I've searched the forums and as anticipated only clouded the issue.

The question: for casual daytime trips to the range with maybe moving toward some novice competitions along with taking some classes; would a PST gen1 be sufficient? I have been looking at the 5x25 gen II but budget conscious is budget conscious and $300 could go toward a better bipod etc ... But then again, I am also aware of "you get what you pay for".

the facts: Savage FCP 338 Lapua, New to Long Range, daytime all weather shooting anticipated.

Thanks for any help.

Darren

 

[DownhillFromHere]

Avoid any of the 1st-gen Vortex scopes - this is coming from the past owner of three of them as well as owning two gen-2 razors and three gen-2 Viper PSTs.

The gen-2 models (look for 5x zoom range, e.g., 3-15x, 5-25x, etc.) are FAR superior in just about every way to the first gen ones (4x zoom range). They are worth the extra money. Also, when the option of first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) exists, pay the extra $$ and get FFP unless you plan to use the scope ONLY for a specific range or hunting. If you even think you might ever compete, stay away from SFP. Lots of info & discussion to be found on SH.

I've been into this rifle thing for three years now and spent a lot of $$ on lower-end scopes, a few mid-tier, and one alpha model. Buy the best you can afford; the best ROI is in the $1800-2500 range but excellent options exist at $700-1000.

Also, the haters are most likely gonna come out of the woodwork and urinate on Vortex in this thread. Ignore them (or anyone who jumps up&down and says only this or that brand/model is worthy of consideration...). Set the highest price point you can afford and plow through various companies' web sites to look at the reticles - which are a subjective, personal choice. Look hardest at purchasing the one with the reticle that appeals to you most.

Finally, pay attention to the Snipers Hide sponsoring vendors. Call them - on the phone - to discuss what you're looking for at your price point. Athlon has some great budget scopes, and @gr8fuldoug will help you decide. Call him at CameralandNY. Richard at @CSTactical or Scott at @LibertyOptics will help you out in the Vortex arena. I've dealt with all these guys and they're excellent. No doubt other SH vendors will help as well (they're down at the bottom of the list of forums).

Good luck.

 

[TM1107]

While I can’t comment on the Gen 2 PST scopes, I currently have a Gen 1 PST 4-16 FFP. I’ve never had any issues with it out to distance (current furthest shot is 500). I have no doubt that the Gen 2 is better as the above poster said, but with that in mind I’m just saying I have no issues with the Gen 1

 

[david223]

I didnt like Gen 1 and I love Gen 2. The upgrade is worth every penny.

 

[nightman89]

I recently upgraded from a couple of SFP gen 1 vipers to a gen 2 5-25. Everything about it is better, from the glass, to the reticle, to the turrets, to the FFP and illum. It's well worth the money, and you won't be upset that you own it.

 

[AMGtuned]

I'm still using a 6-24 FFP gen 1 on a rifle. Have 0, zero, none, nada, complaints about it. Have had 2, 4-16 gen 1 scopes, one of which could've been more clear, still a good scope.

 

[darrencontino]

Thanks all, appreciate the quick response and taking the time to post the information. I bit the proverbial bullet and went with the gen 2 in 5-25.

 

[fxdrider]

The question: for casual daytime trips to the range with maybe moving toward some novice competitions along with taking some classes; would a PST gen1 be sufficient?

Yes. It should be be "sufficient". Many have gotten started with lesser scopes. And if you get one that exhibits problems, Vortex is great about fixing them.

However...

I have been looking at the 5x25 gen II but budget conscious is budget conscious and $300 could go toward a better bipod etc ... But then again, I am also aware of "you get what you pay for".

The Gen II PST's are definitely better. The concept "Buy once, Cry once" comes into play.

EDIT: Missed your last post. You won't regret the Gen II.