varmint scope suggestions

[benchracer]

In addition to the Nikon Buckmaster 6-18x40 that others have mentioned (and that I like very much), here are a couple more budget options:


BSA Tactical Mil-Dot Rifle Scope 30mm Tube 6-24x 44mm Side Focus Glass

Most people scoff at BSA scopes, but this one is pretty good for the money. I have one on my 22-250 and I really like it. For a varmint rifle, it works very well. The people who laugh at it haven't used one.

SWFA SS 12x42 Tactical Riflescope

These scopes can me had in mil-mil or mil-moa configuration in 6x, 10x, 12x, 16x, and 20x. I have a 10x mil-moa model on my F-T/R rifle. It is rugged and repeatable, with OK glass. For daylight to early twilight use, it works very well. Higher end scopes with better glass will outperform it in low light. I don't see that as an issue for varminting use, though.

I'm sure someone will be along shortly to tell you to put a Nightforce on your .17HMR. Whatever.

 

[charlesasmith]

Not to be a kill joy, but last summer I found the 17hmr to not provide "splat" factor. They just fall over dead. It is not usable in standard Montana winds, unless shot early in the day. I also limited shots to 150 yds on prairie dogs. Winds are such an issue that I no longer shoot 17s for prairie dogs. Wished I could.

 

[Axl]

Not to be a kill joy, but last summer I found the 17hmr to not provide "splat" factor. They just fall over dead. It is not usable in standard Montana winds, unless shot early in the day. I also limited shots to 150 yds on prairie dogs. Winds are such an issue that I no longer shoot 17s for prairie dogs. Wished I could.

The OP won't think you're a kill joy- he posted this 10 years ago, and hasn't been back here since 2014!

 

[Varmint Hunter]

The OP won't think you're a kill joy- he posted this 10 years ago, and hasn't been back here since 2014!

A "Super Zombie" you might say. LOL

 

[BALLISTICJESUS]

The new Arken EPL-4 lite. Allot of bang for the buck. The 6-24x50 (They also have a 4-16) is about the same weight and size as a Leupold VX5-HD 3-15. 30mm body, MOA or Mil reticle. Japanese glass. Excellent turrets, guaranteed to track within 1%. Zero stop, life time warranty not matter the owner. Oh and illuminated reticle . They will be released shortly. For around 375.00 .

I have been messing around with the 6-24 version in MOA For a month or so. It has tracked well. I can put the hurt on clay pigeons @ 800 yards with ease. I've run it on a 6x45, 22 Creedmoor, 25 Creedmoor and a .224 Predator.

 

[akdad]

they are already out aren't they? I got a bunch to put put them on all my prairie dog rifles to keep them all the same. I don't see the $375 price though.

 

[JSHKS]

I went with the 5-25's. I think we will see Arken around for a long time.

 

[BALLISTICJESUS]

I didn't know exactly what the final price would be on their web site and I haven't looked, I just had a ballpark figure. I know I will have (4) of the EPL-4, 4-16 MOA's being delivered here shortly.

 

[akdad]

I order some Jan 29th and still waiting on the 4x16.

 

[slas]

Recently picked up a Hawke Vantage IR Riflescope 4-16x50 AO, 1", Rimfire .17HMR for $175 on Ebay. Was surprised at how much I like it.

 

[BALLISTICJESUS]

I ordered on Nov 3, 2022