Re: Vortex viper or Bushnell elite 3200 tactical
The specific Bushnell you mention has, I believe, about 55 minutes of internal adjustment. Sounds like it might just barely make it at 1000 but I don't think that's something you can rely on. I don't know the internal adjustment of the Vortex but would imagine it to be in the 70-80 min range, which is what you'd want.
Always look at the internal adjustment spec. on any scope. Also, for this reason only buy reliable brands so you can rely on the specs among all the other issues.
I don't have a .223 bullet drop table in my head so I'll give examples from other calibers. A .30-06 will drop about 37-39 inches at 500 yards and about 295-300 or about that at 1000 yards. A .338 Lapua will drop about 37-38 at 500 and about 245-255 inches at 1000. Now, those sound like you could get away with that 50 minutes since the most I'd see dialing in would be 300 inches - 30 moa at 100 yards equals 300 inches at 1000 - it could be pushing it and could take away flexibility for further use. Also, think about what you might have to use to compensate for the mechanical issues of your rifle and mounts. Too close to the end of adjustment, in my view. Look for something offering at least 70 minutes of internal adjustment. I don't know why it's so small - possibly the zoom mechanism within the 1" tube. Their (3200) 10x fixed has 80 minutes. So, for a zoom, also look for a 30mm tube. Get something decent once and you'll have it for the future and any other rifles you may migrate to.
Good luck.
