Wrong Scope?

[Bitterroot Bulls]

I'd like to be in the $600- $700 range on a new scope. I'll be on foot some, but not enought that scope weight should factor in. I'm thinking about a VX-2 or 3 with the new CDS system. I'd like a 4-12, 4-14, or 6-18 ideally. Thing is, I am going to start shooting with it in a week or two, and whatever glass is on it then will be what stays.

If you aren't going to be shooting groups extensively, I would think a little less magnification would be good, especially if you are using a reticle for holdovers, as they will typically be subtended at or near the maximum magnification.

A Zeiss Conquest 3-9X40 or 3.5-10X44 with the Rapid Z 600 or 800 reticle would be an excellent all-around choice.

The Swarovski Z3 3-10X42 or 4-12X50 w/ BRH reticle would also be a great combo w/ your cartridge.

I like Husky's VX-6 recommendation, but I am not a big fan of the tapered windage bars on the B&C reticle. The CDS dial and duplex reticle would be the way I would go with that scope.

Keep us posted on how it works out.

[ThreeTikkas]

What he (Bitterroot) said. 2X or 3X on the bottom. 12X really is plenty for the top end. I routinly compete @ 400yds in a class that has a 10X limit. I'm getting 2 1/2" and 3" groups from a sporter 25/06 at 10X out to 400 yds. Granted,this is from a bench and not field shooting,but the magnifcation is adequate. You can set yourself up for long shots no doubt. I like to watch long country. Who doesn't? But, the elk we get into always seem to be well under 400yds. More like 150 to 200. Less in the timber. In an effort to loose some weight,I'm considering a VXIII 6X for the 338 T3. A 2.5X - 8X VXIII might just be the best Leupold yet for the money as a meat and potatoes scope. I'm not a big fan of the B&C reticle,but I can see the merit in it. Just a little old fashioned I guess. I do know that scabbards can be a real problem with the big glass with target turrets. Better make sure of whats going on there.