High-end scope for ultralight hunting rifle?

[JAYgs8163]

I just picked up one of these in the beginning of March and am thoroughly impressed. I was skeptical about ordering, but after reading a couple of reviews and calling the tech department at Crimson, I went ahead and got one. I liked it so much and I bought another and it's in the safe waiting for my 6.5 PRC Kampfeld Customs build to be done. Made in Japan and it's got awesome optics. ED Glass, Non illuminated, 32 oz, zero stop, 50% off and a $100 rebate. Check it out. Normally $1900 and now $950. Every bit as good as my Razor and same warranty. Not lightweight but.....

Crimson Trace 5-Series Tactical Rifle Scope 34mm Tube 3-24x 56mm 1/10

The Crimson Trace 5-Series is a feature rich 3-24x 56mm long-range rifle scope that has been purposefully built from the ground up. The scopes First...

www.midwayusa.com

 

[Twentyguns]

I would have to second the tangent theta I do not own one as of yet but have shot two rifles with them and the tracking is absolute glass is top tier I will be owning one very soon

Hear great things in the superglass and tracking category about the Tangent... not sure my truck sale will foot the bill there. I dont need big magnification so their 3-15~ would work. Hear the same about Zcomp.

Biggest issue with this decision is buying an optic sight unseen. Once the quarantine is lifted I'll be on the move. Really appreciate you all on your inputs. Helpful. Thanks.

 

[SCSCHNUR]

This is what happens when social distancing brings on cabin fever! I've got money coming from sale of truck - no stimulus checks for me. Part of the truck cash will go for new scope for my 6 lb. 7mm. Need to be able to ping targets to beyond 1200-1400 yards and have enough elevation to get there with a 20 degree rail if needed.

While I thought the choice might be a Leopold HD5 3-18, I've got mixed feelings about the 35mm tube. I'm not a big fan of the illuminated reticle choice for their mil model either (TMR). That appears to be the best glass in a light package from Lup.

Second consideration was a NF NX8 but again, I've got one shot to do this right, pun intended, and want the highest quality glass I can buy. I've heard mixed reviews on the NX8 glass and light transmission capabilities.

I would probably get a ZComp if it wasn't such a tank... and may still do that but need to look through one. Clarity and low light performance found in the top tear glass are important to me though... so that factors into what i'll end up buying... I've considered Minox, Kahles, S&B, Zeiss, and Swaro in the same lineup... even a Valdada IOR, a new one they just came up with, the TX Raider Compact (but then 2 lbs too, and back to 35mm tube.)

The IOR MP8 is the only FFP reticle I've had any time behind and was usable at its lowest power...so that's another decision factor with this new scope, given most are FFP will it be usable for short range, dark timber or low light conditions. Some FFPs I've looked through would be near invisible without illumination - so unless you can see it like an MP8 at low magnification. I'll have to have that. I'm using a range finder so most of the time, FFP isn't a requirement but most of the top end glass seems to comes in FFP...

I'm sure there are plenty of varying opinions out there, but what would you do if faced with a single opportunity to buy one high end scope for your lightweight hunting rifle. I've got a budget that can do $3500 but I'm not apposed to applying some $ to deer/elk tags if I find the right scope. Ultimate resolution, repeat-ability, low light performance, elevation, in a mil scope that can reach out and get the job done with the above criteria. Thoughts? Other options?

I have had my eye on the Leopold HD5 3-18 as well nice scope shorter in size now if it is just for hunting the SWFA ss 2.5x10x32 only weighs 9.5 oz. good glass and tuff scope but I like the
Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 MIL would be my choice.

 

[ronstone09]

This is what happens when social distancing brings on cabin fever! I've got money coming from sale of truck - no stimulus checks for me. Part of the truck cash will go for new scope for my 6 lb. 7mm. Need to be able to ping targets to beyond 1200-1400 yards and have enough elevation to get there with a 20 degree rail if needed.

While I thought the choice might be a Leopold HD5 3-18, I've got mixed feelings about the 35mm tube. I'm not a big fan of the illuminated reticle choice for their mil model either (TMR). That appears to be the best glass in a light package from Lup.

Second consideration was a NF NX8 but again, I've got one shot to do this right, pun intended, and want the highest quality glass I can buy. I've heard mixed reviews on the NX8 glass and light transmission capabilities.

I would probably get a ZComp if it wasn't such a tank... and may still do that but need to look through one. Clarity and low light performance found in the top tear glass are important to me though... so that factors into what i'll end up buying... I've considered Minox, Kahles, S&B, Zeiss, and Swaro in the same lineup... even a Valdada IOR, a new one they just came up with, the TX Raider Compact (but then 2 lbs too, and back to 35mm tube.)

The IOR MP8 is the only FFP reticle I've had any time behind and was usable at its lowest power...so that's another decision factor with this new scope, given most are FFP will it be usable for short range, dark timber or low light conditions. Some FFPs I've looked through would be near invisible without illumination - so unless you can see it like an MP8 at low magnification. I'll have to have that. I'm using a range finder so most of the time, FFP isn't a requirement but most of the top end glass seems to comes in FFP...

I'm sure there are plenty of varying opinions out there, but what would you do if faced with a single opportunity to buy one high end scope for your lightweight hunting rifle. I've got a budget that can do $3500 but I'm not apposed to applying some $ to deer/elk tags if I find the right scope. Ultimate resolution, repeat-ability, low light performance, elevation, in a mil scope that can reach out and get the job done with the above criteria. Thoughts? Other options?

I would look into the zeiss conquest or higher in 3 5x12 or 5x15 ! I've used them for years and their clarity is great and they are light !

 

[Paper boy]

This is what happens when social distancing brings on cabin fever! I've got money coming from sale of truck - no stimulus checks for me. Part of the truck cash will go for new scope for my 6 lb. 7mm. Need to be able to ping targets to beyond 1200-1400 yards and have enough elevation to get there with a 20 degree rail if needed.

While I thought the choice might be a Leopold HD5 3-18, I've got mixed feelings about the 35mm tube. I'm not a big fan of the illuminated reticle choice for their mil model either (TMR). That appears to be the best glass in a light package from Lup.

Second consideration was a NF NX8 but again, I've got one shot to do this right, pun intended, and want the highest quality glass I can buy. I've heard mixed reviews on the NX8 glass and light transmission capabilities.

I would probably get a ZComp if it wasn't such a tank... and may still do that but need to look through one. Clarity and low light performance found in the top tear glass are important to me though... so that factors into what i'll end up buying... I've considered Minox, Kahles, S&B, Zeiss, and Swaro in the same lineup... even a Valdada IOR, a new one they just came up with, the TX Raider Compact (but then 2 lbs too, and back to 35mm tube.)

The IOR MP8 is the only FFP reticle I've had any time behind and was usable at its lowest power...so that's another decision factor with this new scope, given most are FFP will it be usable for short range, dark timber or low light conditions. Some FFPs I've looked through would be near invisible without illumination - so unless you can see it like an MP8 at low magnification. I'll have to have that. I'm using a range finder so most of the time, FFP isn't a requirement but most of the top end glass seems to comes in FFP...

I'm sure there are plenty of varying opinions out there, but what would you do if faced with a single opportunity to buy one high end scope for your lightweight hunting rifle. I've got a budget that can do $3500 but I'm not apposed to applying some $ to deer/elk tags if I find the right scope. Ultimate resolution, repeat-ability, low light performance, elevation, in a mil scope that can reach out and get the job done with the above criteria. Thoughts? Other options?

Would you consider a, new in the box, never mounted, Nightforcr ATACR 5-25 F2.? If so, get back to me to talk price

 

[Tumbleweed]

Your MIL requirement takes out some good options like the VX6HD line, which I think is phenomenal. I think the glass is better than the march and it comes with alumina flip caps which I am pretty sure is included in the listed weight of the scope since they come installed. So it weighs the same as the march. I have the 4-24x52 on a carbon fiber PRC and it has been a sweet set up. Plus made in the USA if that matters to you - Leupold has put out some sweet products lately - the mark5hd and 5 and 6hd lines are awesome.

Honestly Leupold should not even be a consideration in this conversation unless we're talking Mark5 and up. The glass is pretty good, but what consolation is that when they won't hold zero or track accurately? The VX line all the way up to Vx6 suffer from a weak erector design and are just waiting to fail

 

[Gone Ballistic]

If you are hunting with this rifle, I can't see how you could think about a NX8, when you should be leaning towards a lower power like the NXS 3.5X15X50. Even though you are looking at 30 ounces, with their Velocity reticule, you would have a great marriage of scope and rifle for hunting purposes.
Shooting at distances you want to shoot could be done however, I would not recommend you take shots beyond 600-700 yards with such a lightweight rifle as, it is extremely difficult to control movement of your rifle to effectively and consistently make shots of longer ranges. I don't care how many times a person practices shots of ranges you are looking at shooting, it becomes another piece of the process to make a shot in the heat of the moment. This results in potential wounding of animals and I feel is irresponsible and unethical to take shots of this kind by using a firearm that cannot be anchored by the shooter.
Good luck with your choice.

 

[UplandFreak]

Honestly Leupold should not even be a consideration in this conversation unless we're talking Mark5 and up. The glass is pretty good, but what consolation is that when they won't hold zero or track accurately? The VX line all the way up to Vx6 suffer from a weak erector design and are just waiting to fail

 

[HTJ]

This is what happens when social distancing brings on cabin fever! I've got money coming from sale of truck - no stimulus checks for me. Part of the truck cash will go for new scope for my 6 lb. 7mm. Need to be able to ping targets to beyond 1200-1400 yards and have enough elevation to get there with a 20 degree rail if needed.

While I thought the choice might be a Leopold HD5 3-18, I've got mixed feelings about the 35mm tube. I'm not a big fan of the illuminated reticle choice for their mil model either (TMR). That appears to be the best glass in a light package from Lup.

Second consideration was a NF NX8 but again, I've got one shot to do this right, pun intended, and want the highest quality glass I can buy. I've heard mixed reviews on the NX8 glass and light transmission capabilities.

I would probably get a ZComp if it wasn't such a tank... and may still do that but need to look through one. Clarity and low light performance found in the top tear glass are important to me though... so that factors into what i'll end up buying... I've considered Minox, Kahles, S&B, Zeiss, and Swaro in the same lineup... even a Valdada IOR, a new one they just came up with, the TX Raider Compact (but then 2 lbs too, and back to 35mm tube.)

The IOR MP8 is the only FFP reticle I've had any time behind and was usable at its lowest power...so that's another decision factor with this new scope, given most are FFP will it be usable for short range, dark timber or low light conditions. Some FFPs I've looked through would be near invisible without illumination - so unless you can see it like an MP8 at low magnification. I'll have to have that. I'm using a range finder so most of the time, FFP isn't a requirement but most of the top end glass seems to comes in FFP...

I'm sure there are plenty of varying opinions out there, but what would you do if faced with a single opportunity to buy one high end scope for your lightweight hunting rifle. I've got a budget that can do $3500 but I'm not apposed to applying some $ to deer/elk tags if I find the right scope. Ultimate resolution, repeat-ability, low light performance, elevation, in a mil scope that can reach out and get the job done with the above criteria. Thoughts? Other options?

You should look at Holland ART reticle. Darrel is a great guy and knows his stuff. He puts them into leupold VX6 HD snd S&B scopes. Wonderful reticle just make sure you set it up correctly with your ballastics Data and it will rock. You can get 30 MOA holds without touching your CDS dial than use the dial to sub tension the MOA holds! Your way pass your distance. I have used this reticle for several years and it has never let me down. From 100-1200 spot on. I can tell you it did save me on my Yukon sheep hunt! Best of luck HT

 

[Tommy T]

I would say go with the Leica scopes I have 5 of there scopes and they work very good and they are some of the best glass for low light

 

[Huntz]

I would rethink what you want to do here.If you want to shoot long range with a reliable set up you need a heavier rifle.There are a lot of scopes that will do what you want at a better price.More expensive does not necessarily mean it is a better scope.You are paying a lot for a name.You have money to burn,buy a rifle more suited to long distance shooting and top it with a Nightforce.Throw a
lightweight scope of your choice on the 7mag and call it good to go for mountain hunting.I am not saying you cannot use a light rig for long distance shooting,just you are making it hard on your self to be successful.After all a quick humane kill is what it is all about.JMHO,Huntz

 

[Ed AO]

I want a scope with hydrophobic coatings. Leupold, vortex, swaro or zeiss. Don't trust leupold. I have a March and a zeiss v8. Either going to get a vortex amg or swaro x5 for my next scope.

 

[Starlite]

Im a Sig Sauer guy myself so I'd say look at the Gen II Tango4/6. (Priced right) However the Zeiss V8 1.8-14X50 is nice. The 2.8-20x56 is probably better suited for everything from stalking to medium/ alpine distance shooting (Best all around). In my opinion for long range shooting the 4.8-35X60 ( @2.2lbs) is more suited to reach out to 1400yds. I know lots of shooters can and have used10X; myself included (with my sig sauer bdx Sierra3 paired with my Garmin 701). For hunting accuracy at that distance, if that's your intention (sorry can't remember) I'd go with a 56-60mm Bell. Just my 2C!!

 

[SCSCHNUR]

Army has new scope for their sniper rifles. https://www.recoilweb.com/the-armys-m110-gets-new-glass-the-leupold-mark-5hd-159893.html?