...

[CobraRed]

Vortex Viper 6.5-20x50 + EGW rail + burris xtreme rings.

That's in the ballpark, I was shooting 1000+ with that scope.

[roushstage2]

I put a Vortex Viper HS-T on my new 700 SPS Tac, along with low Burris XTR rings and a 20MOA Weaver base.

[webcruzzer]

Don't forgot to bed your 20 MOA base.

[Michael_Js]

Don't forgot to bed your 20 MOA base.

Since i'm doing the same - with most of the same components chosen for a Winchester Model 70 in .308, what does this ^ mean?

Thank you

[asus611]

I have the same rifle. I just ordered a Vortex 6.5 x 20 x 50 Mil Dot for $413 from JoeBobs (coupon code VORTEX10). Seems to get great reviews, and Vortex hasn't let me down yet.

[the_t0ny]

Another vote for the SWFA SS fixed power scope paired with TPS rings and base.

[Stockton]

Bedding the base is ensuring there is no uneven gaps between receiver and base that may cause the base to flex. Place your base on receiver, hand snug the forward screws only, look at the rear of base and check for space. If there is space between rear of base and receiver...that is what he is referring to have bedded.

[Stockton]

And YouTube has a few "how to" vids using JB Weld if you decide to do it.

[1859sharps]

$500 is one tight optics budget...

only if you buy into the myth about having to take a second mortgage in order to have a quality scope.

The OP indicates shooting range to typically be 100 to 150 yards.

Leupold has some really nice scopes that would cover out to double that range within the stated budget.

Yes, you can spend "not enough" and end up with a "crappy" scope. But you don't have to take out a second mortgage to have a quality scope. Particularly if your shooting is 300 yards or less.

I am not sure the old rules of thumb regarding scopes apply anymore...at least not entirely. scopes are becoming more specialized to specific tasks. hunting, competition, "tactical" (ie self defense, police or military). buy the scope that fits your primary need. this is based on features, not solely price.

3-9 isn't very strong for target shooting at 500 yards.

Not entirely true. target shooting is a very broad description. it all depends on what kind of target shooting you are doing. putting a soup can out at 500 yards...ya, you may have a point. put a IPSC type target out at 500...you will do just fine.

it is very possible to shoot iron sights accurately out to 500 yards. a good quality 3 to 9 scope will have absolutely no issue doing so as well.

[NorCalFocus]

Not entirely true. target shooting is a very broad description. it all depends on what kind of target shooting you are doing. putting a soup can out at 500 yards...ya, you may have a point. put a IPSC type target out at 500...you will do just fine.

it is very possible to shoot iron sights accurately out to 500 yards. a good quality 3 to 9 scope will have absolutely no issue doing so as well.

Very true, the idea of target shooting may varry from one to another. I meant more of shooting groups on paper. If you want to ding a 18" plate at 500, a 9 power would work, but I like to get the most scope I can.

[baih777]

- Burris 30mm rings http://www.midwayusa.com/product/276...-_-ProductLink (I have no idea if this is the right size. Depends on the scope?)

make sure when you order the rings you get set. your link is for a single ring.
i have those rings on three of my rifles. great rings.
i would get a 0 moa base first.
i use bases from EGW. they fit great. always test fit your rail first. check the length of your screws. if one of them is short, it usually goes in the front hole.

http://www.egwguns.com/

[Siberian23]

I would pick a fixed 10x scope. Either the swfa ss or the bushnell elite 3200. Swfa had a package special right now that is 399 with rings and caps and then some useless junk too.

[wjc]

What are you going to use the rifle for?

You could pick up a Leupold 3-9x40mm for around $400 that would be adequate for hunting.

[ExtremeX]

only if you buy into the myth about having to take a second mortgage in order to have a quality scope.

It’s not like I recommended the OP go out and spend $2500+ US Optics or S&B. I simply stated that $500 is a tight budget, which it is.

When looking for a decent target scope in that price range, your options are limited. $200-300 bucks more and you can start to find some real healthy options. You don’t even have to break the 1k mark to find an excellent optic.

My recommendation was a $300 fixed power SWFA… at least that buys him good glass, excellent tracking, nice mil/mil matched reticle, exposed turrets and a good platform to learn the craft.

What is your recommendation under $500

[Wrangler John]

The best scope for under $500 is here, http://www.brunoshooters.com/Merchan...e=BUSH-SCOPE-E Check Items# E6240 & E6241. I have four Bushnell Elite 4200's which this scope superseded, and they kill little things at long range, with nary a hiccup. This is the best price around. You'll need a little more dough for the base and rings. I suggest Ken Farrel bases and either his rings or what I use, Burris Signature Zee Rings. Buy direct from Ken Farrel or MidwayUSA or your favorite dealer.