Hunting Washington Forum

Equipment & Gear => Scopes and Optics => Topic started by: Wetwoodshunter on January 19, 2018, 10:09:23 AM

Title: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on January 19, 2018, 10:09:23 AM: I have a completely custom Rem 700 that I do an injustice by having a 3-9 on it currently. I have been thinking about getting a Nightforce scope on it and learning to dial and shoot longer distances. Currently with the 3-9 I'm comfortable ringing steel out to 600 yards.

Does anyone have a Nightforce on their rifle and can give some insight on scopes to check out? This rifle is a hunting rifle so I was thinking that a 4-15 magnification range would be the best. Then I have the option of FFP or SFP, it seems that FFP has benefits on follow up shots but second is way more popular with all the other scopes on the market.

Either way, I would like to keep the cost around $1,200 if that means waiting and buying a used scope I got time.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: birddogdad on January 19, 2018, 10:30:57 AM: yes I run NF. pm me with questions...
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: BULLBLASTER on January 19, 2018, 01:08:49 PM: Coop2424 on this board is selling a nightforce shv 4-14 on here.
Nf makes solid scopes.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: coop2424 on January 19, 2018, 01:32:25 PM: Like bullblaster said below I have a shv for sale link below. My only complaint on the shv I am selling is no zero stop. For a hunting rifle I would personally stay away from ffp on low power the reitcles are pretty hard to see in lower light. Nightforce are awesome scopes and very well built.

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,221309.msg2964090.html#msg2964090
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on January 19, 2018, 02:11:13 PM: coop that looks like a great scope and was one of the ones I was looking at. I guess I need to go look through one though, I didn't even think about the fact that the reticle would shrink at low magnification. Most of the time my hunting rifle is on its lowest magnification and I zoom in if I need to.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: kselkhunter on January 19, 2018, 03:33:00 PM: They are not the NightForce you are asking for, but these are nice options for sale in the Classifieds to consider as well:
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,223455.msg2971980/topicseen.html#new
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: RightPlace-RightTime on January 19, 2018, 03:59:22 PM: http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,223458.msg2972039/topicseen.html#new
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Magnum_Willys on January 19, 2018, 04:02:58 PM: Consider if weight matters to you. For some of us its the only reason we dont get nightforce.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: biggfish on January 19, 2018, 09:51:28 PM: Many years ago when I had a Cheytac it came as a package with a Nightforce. Great glass but as I no longer compete it is just not needed or feasible for me. If I had that kind of money though to be able to spend on a rifle scope I wouldn't hesitate.

Sent from my LG-K425 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on January 20, 2018, 08:10:04 AM: Quote from: biggfish on January 19, 2018, 09:51:28 PM
Many years ago when I had a Cheytac it came as a package with a Nightforce. Great glass but as I no longer compete it is just not needed or feasible for me. If I had that kind of money though to be able to spend on a rifle scope I wouldn't hesitate.

Sent from my LG-K425 using Tapatalk

That's a heck of a gun.

I appreciate all the advice/ ideas given so far I have a few options that I'm looking at. I'll have to go look through some glass Sunday and see if anything feels perfect.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Alan K on January 20, 2018, 08:29:42 AM: Not sure which model Nightforce he has, but on the one my Dad has, the entire eyepiece rotates with magnification adjustment. Being on the west side scope covers are a must for us, and this makes fixed scope covers unusable unless you have your scope mounted suuuuper high.

Something to think about. Probably has something to do with tactical guys wanting to just grab the whole end of their scopes for power adjustments, but doesn't help out the west side hunters
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: h20hunter on January 20, 2018, 08:35:01 AM: Rbros is putting together a plinker in 7mn rem mag for me. I have access to almost ant brand of scope at dealer cost. I asked why NF and was told it is simply one the most reliable and repeatable in regards to adjustnents. Glass is nice, rugged, and after doing my own reading I went with the 5.5x20x50 nxs. Yeah, that one I don't have access to discounts. There is a reason custom builders put them on. Can't wait.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: BULLBLASTER on January 20, 2018, 09:07:27 AM: :yeah:
I ran my rifle and scope over with a motorcycle last fall :bash: (don’t ask) and everything came out still in the correct position and held zero. Just a couple scuffs in the finish. That was a nf nxs in Hawkins hybrid rings. Definitely added trust in my set up after that stunt.
Not to say I have had issues with other scopes, my mark 4 s have been trouble free as well. Just haven’t been through the same test. Really the only scope I have ever had issues with was a vortex viper on my 375 HH. vortex replaced it 3 times before I finally sold it for a Leupold.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Crunchy on January 20, 2018, 09:59:20 AM: I can get NF at 20% off, but still leaning towards Leupold that I can get at cost. Main reason is the power range. I prefer something in the 3X18 or 4X24 for the lower magnification end which is not something NF offers.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: b23 on January 20, 2018, 11:17:48 AM: Where the NF scopes really shine is when you are doing a lot of dialing for distance. Their tracking and repeatability is second to none and if you are shooting at distance, that is huge.

If you mostly do hold over shooting, then I'm not sure a NF is the best choice of scope.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: CaNINE on January 30, 2018, 08:05:15 AM: I've been gradually upgrading all my primary hunting guns to NF scopes. I'm not rich so this is taking a while. I have a couple flavors of NXS scopes and an SHV 4-14X. I just ordered the new 5-20X SHV with exposed elevation turret. For hunting rifles I think the SHV offers several advantages over the NXS line, and they are significantly lower in cost.

Fast focus eye piece, yardage marked parallax dial, adjustable illumination settings, same glass as NXS and dead nuts repeatable click values. And a warranty that you'll likely never need to use.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: CAMPMEAT on January 30, 2018, 08:24:31 AM: Look at SWFA and Primary Arms scopes. Not expensive, but excellent reviews.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: lamrith on January 30, 2018, 08:57:28 AM: I cannot offer assistance on a specific scope for you but wanted to share this video since it was mentioned in the thread about Zero stop.

IF you have a scope you like and it does not have built in zerostop, but you want that ability something like this may be an option. Obviously you need to check if the scope you are interested can do this, but might be an option to keep in mind..

t=
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: yorketransport on February 05, 2018, 07:44:43 PM: I guess I'll be the odd man out and say that the NXS and SHV scopes are over rated. I've owned multiple NXS scopes and shot behind many more and I didn't think any of them were that great. The glass is OK, they tracked well, and they held their zero. My Leupolds and Sightron SIIIs have all proven to be just as good or better in some cases. I'd rate the SHV right there with the Vortex PST, which isn't saying much.

10 years ago the NXS was hot stuff but they've stayed stagnant while everybody else advances. Combine that with the weight and size of an NXS and I really don't think they're a good option, especially on a hunting rifle. Now if you can find a good deal on a used NXS go for it. I paid $1200 for my 5.5-25x56 and I'm happy with it for that price. If I had paid full retail though I'd be sending it down the road. If I were buying a new scope for a hunting rifle and had a $1200 budget I'd be looking at the VX-5HD scopes or good deal on a used scope. If you live near Cabelas, check the bargain cave often. I've bought a lot of optics from there for very good prices.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: slm9s on February 05, 2018, 08:29:31 PM: Bushnell LRHS, if you like FFP.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: jrebel on February 05, 2018, 08:33:06 PM: I love my nightforce shv. I will be buying another. I really like the capped turrets.....I never have to worry about my turrets getting bumped / moved. I use the moar reticle for holdover if I don't have time to dial. Anything over 500 yards I have time to dial so I just pop the cap off and dial. Works great.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Come Get Some on February 06, 2018, 07:20:23 AM: I have the ATACR 5-25-50 Best glass I have ever used. Shots to 1000 yds are ridiculous and very easy. Could not see the antlers that great on my New Mexico mule deer at 946 yds with my Leica Geovid 10x40 binos. I picked up my scope , dialed it to 25 and could tell it had 4 " eyeguards. Dialed the scope and 1 shot thru the lungs, DEAD< DEAD< DEAD. Will never go back. And yes you can run them over with a truck and they hold zero.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Magnum_Willys on February 06, 2018, 07:26:09 AM: Quote from: Come Get Some on February 06, 2018, 07:20:23 AM
I have the ATACR 5-25-50 Best glass I have ever used. Shots to 1000 yds are ridiculous and very easy. Could not see the antlers that great on my New Mexico mule deer at 946 yds with my Leica Geovid 10x40 binos. I picked up my scope , dialed it to 25 and could tell it had 4 " eyeguards. Dialed the scope and 1 shot thru the lungs, DEAD< DEAD< DEAD. Will never go back. And yes you can run them over with a truck and they hold zero.
Yep Great scope, just too dang heavy but thats the price of solid glass and beefy construction. But if you have too light of rifle it may steady it a bit.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: yorketransport on February 06, 2018, 12:20:56 PM: Quote from: Come Get Some on February 06, 2018, 07:20:23 AM
I have the ATACR 5-25-50 Best glass I have ever used. Shots to 1000 yds are ridiculous and very easy. Could not see the antlers that great on my New Mexico mule deer at 946 yds with my Leica Geovid 10x40 binos. I picked up my scope , dialed it to 25 and could tell it had 4 " eyeguards. Dialed the scope and 1 shot thru the lungs, DEAD< DEAD< DEAD. Will never go back. And yes you can run them over with a truck and they hold zero.

The ATACR is what I expect from a NF. The down side is that they’re huge! Mine looks pretty proportional on the 338 SnipeTac, but would look kind of funny on anything under 14#. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: b23 on February 06, 2018, 03:21:25 PM: Quote from: yorketransport on February 06, 2018, 12:20:56 PM
Quote from: Come Get Some on February 06, 2018, 07:20:23 AM
I have the ATACR 5-25-50 Best glass I have ever used. Shots to 1000 yds are ridiculous and very easy. Could not see the antlers that great on my New Mexico mule deer at 946 yds with my Leica Geovid 10x40 binos. I picked up my scope , dialed it to 25 and could tell it had 4 " eyeguards. Dialed the scope and 1 shot thru the lungs, DEAD< DEAD< DEAD. Will never go back. And yes you can run them over with a truck and they hold zero.

The ATACR is what I expect from a NF. The down side is that they’re huge! Mine looks pretty proportional on the 338 SnipeTac, but would look kind of funny on anything under 14#. :chuckle:

So you think it may look a little silly on a CZ 527?? :chuckle:
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: yorketransport on February 06, 2018, 06:33:35 PM: If I could find a set of 34mm rings for the CZ I might do it!
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: b23 on February 06, 2018, 07:10:31 PM: Quote from: yorketransport on February 06, 2018, 06:33:35 PM
If I could find a set of 34mm rings for the CZ I might do it!

Piece of cake! Use a CZ 527 picatinny rail from DIP Inc and your 34mm rings should work. :tup:
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Come Get Some on February 07, 2018, 06:05:57 AM: I have mine mounted on a Weatherby Mark V 30-378. It is definitely not too big or heavy. I hunted Idaho last year and carried it all day never wished I had a different gun. I am a hiker. 20 mile days doesnt phase me. Glad to have the glass. A buddy had his 06 with a leupold 4-14. I was looking across a canyon over 1000 yds. He could not even find the deer. I let him look thru my Nightforce. He gasped and said I will have one of these next year. If you are going to have a long range rifle I dont feel you can put enough scope on it. I have looked thru every manufacturers scope out at the range 8-10 different types in the same day while breaking in and sighting in long range guns. Nothing has compared to the ATACR Nightforce yet
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: CAMPMEAT on February 07, 2018, 06:23:21 AM: I ran into this outfit from another forum I'm on.

www.opticsagent.com
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on February 22, 2018, 10:12:07 AM: After much deliberation and weeks of scouring articles. I think I jumped brands and am going to move forward with a VX-6HD with the ZL2. Due to weight, price, and the reviews by both members here and around the web. I had a chance to look through one and I assume that this is more scope than I will ever need on my rifle.

As far magnification. since I can go with either a 3-18 or a 4-24 is there a major benefit for selecting the 4-24 magnification range. This rifle I am putting it on gets hunted but I am planning on trying to stretch it out to 1,000 yards for fun.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: The scout on February 22, 2018, 10:18:13 AM: That’s a great choice for a hunting setup. The 3-18 will be just fine for 1000 yds. Also you can still find the non he models for around 900 right now. For the money that’s the route I would go they aren’t much different
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Magnum_Willys on February 22, 2018, 10:23:12 AM: The 4-24 is a great 1000 yrd scope. But its a lot more $ than the 3-18. If you have good eyes the 18 will get the job done. I like the 24 power but its a budget call.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: jrebel on February 22, 2018, 06:51:26 PM: 4-24....you will never regret it. The difference between 3 and 4 on your low end is negligible. The 18 to 24 on the upper end is huge. Again.....you will never regret the 4-24.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on February 26, 2018, 09:06:15 AM: Well, I pulled the trigger.

I ordered a VH6hd 4-24 with the TMOA reticle. As well I ordered a new set of bases and xtra high rings. I'll post some pictures when I get it mounted and have a range report. Should be a world of difference switching from my vx2 3-9.
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: vandeman17 on February 26, 2018, 09:30:35 AM: Quote from: Wetwoodshunter on February 26, 2018, 09:06:15 AM
Well, I pulled the trigger.

I ordered a VH6hd 4-24 with the TMOA reticle. As well I ordered a new set of bases and xtra high rings. I'll post some pictures when I get it mounted and have a range report. Should be a world of difference switching from my vx2 3-9.

My dad has the same one on his .270. It is freaking amazing! :drool:
Title: Re: Selecting a Longer Range Scope
Post by: Wetwoodshunter on May 23, 2018, 10:24:48 AM: Well after months of waiting it finally came in the mail. I mounted the Vx6hd 4-24 on my 7mm mag and moved my 3-9vx2 onto my wife's 7-08.

Hoping to sight them in tomorrow.