cheap scopes
- From: "chasw" <chasw88@xxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Sat, 1 Dec 2007 17:07:32 +0000 (UTC)
As we have discussed here frequently, buying cheap rifle scopes is akin to
throwing your money away. The most economical approach is to compromise a
little on optical quality in favor of reliable mechanicals (adjustments),
which are essential for any use. The Weaver K series, Bushness Trophy
series, Burris Fullfield series, for example are well suited for GP hunting
purposes. They are reliable and backed up solid warranty coverage. Just
don't complain about their less than stellar optical clarity, compared to
the high priced scopes. The common 3-9X40mm size is typically the best buy
because they are made in huge quanities. Expect to pay about $150 to $200
for scopes in this class. Cheap scopes of unknown or disreputable brands
(e.g., Tasco) should be avoided.
To achieve the next level in optical quality, you have to move up to the
Weaver Grand Slams, Bushness Elite 4200 serie, etc.. Expect to pay about
$250 to $300 for these in the common 3-10X40 sizes. More for the larger
lenses and higher powers. Beyond that it starts to get tricky, comparing
optical quality of one brand to another, very subjective. Zeiss, Nikon,
Burris, Leupold all make products in this range. Until you get to about the
$700 mark for Kahles, Zeiss, etc. where reportedly the optical quality
starts to level off in the very good range. Personally, I don't have any
experience here yet.
One rule of thumb throughout the over $400 price point, if you want the
highest possible resolution for the dollar, be sure to get a model with
adjustable objective lens. Fixed power (less than 10X), fixed focus scopes
deliver fairly good resolution and are well suited for woodland hunting
since there are no dials to fool with when game suddenly appears. Variable
power with fixed focus scopes seem to give up some resolution in favor of
flexible power. Fixed power, adjustable objective focus is the ideal; with
variable power, adjustable focus a bit behind in resolving power. The
ultimate in optical quality, according to those who need and can afford it,
are the US Optics, Nightforce and S&B "sniper" scopes in the $1500 and up
range.
One last lesson to be learned, don't buy a particular scope until you
measure its dimensions against your particular rifle. Scopes are getting
shorter and mounting flexibility is decreasing. I recall buying a Burris
Signature one time only to find when mounted on my long action M70 rifle, it
didn't extend far enough back to put my eye inside the scopes eye relief.
Bummer to the tune of several hundred bucks. - CW
PS: for lowest prices on most brands, check ultout.com and samplelist.com
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