Scope for CZ 527 Varmint

[dfletcher]

I'm picking up a CZ 527 in 223, laminated target version. It's for informal target shooting, I'll use it mostly with "better than bulk" factory ammo - the stuff that uses Hornady, Nosler bullets and not plain old 55 grain FMJ. For when I want to shoot but not reload after, but I'm sure I'll end up reloading for it some.

I realize that on line questions about scopes are generally "which +$1K scope should I buy?" but considering that this will be an about 100 to 250 yd shooter I'm looking at two scopes and wondering if anyone has a better scope at about the same price -

Redfield 6 to 18X for $192.00 (I get a slight C & R FFL discount) or a Weaver Grand Slam in 6 to 24X for $299.00 - both are AO and about 44mm front bell. I already have one of each, they work fine for me.

I know I can spend more and get better, I've done that with Coopers and HS and such. But on this, for a change, I'm looking for something to beat the above. I've checked out the SWFA "Samples List" and see a few interesting items, mostly Nikon Buckmaster, but I want to keep power at or above 18X and the bell @ 42 to 44.

Any specific scope suggestions - or is one of the above about the best I'll do going inexpensive?

[GREASY357]

Leupold VX-2 3-9x40 around $300-$350 I think, I had one on my Rem700 .308 and it worked well, probably be amazing with the .223

[NordicDave]

I shoot at lot of .223 with a bolt rifle. The paper hole is pretty small at 100 yards.

Ditto Graesy357's recommendation for a Leupold VX-2 3-9x40 on this rifle. Another option is Ziess Conquest 3-9x40mm that show up on SWFA's samplelist.com.

Depending on your intended range and use, it might be good to consider more magnification. I'm using a Ziess Conquest 6.5-20x50 which was purchased from sample list for $629!

In the strongest terms, I'd encourage you away from the Redfield scopes. They have great PR from Leupold following the merger of the companies, however they are strictly an entry level product and a couple of notches below the VX-II line of scopes. I used a buddies new Redfield the other week and only the center of the image would focus, leaving a blurry ring around the center. Absolute waste of money. It's been said many times in this forum, anything less than $300 at discount will make you cry twice - once when you use the cheap scope and again when you fork over more good money to replace it.

[Whiterabbit]

IMO you don't need to worry about the objective size. you'll likely be shooting at day, not at day break. so who cares if its 28mm or 40mm or 56mm?

I'd be shooting it with irons. And why not?

But warne QD rings not withstanding, I think you are on the right path already. Personally.

[dfletcher]

IMO you don't need to worry about the objective size. you'll likely be shooting at day, not at day break. so who cares if its 28mm or 40mm or 56mm?

I'd be shooting it with irons. And why not?

But warne QD rings not withstanding, I think you are on the right path already. Personally.

Regarding objective I prefer staying small rather than large for the reason mentioned and cheek weld too. I've never been to keen on the 50 and above stuff. I can't use iron sights on this - 'cause it's got none. I suppose that would be a ready reason for lousy shooting though ....

The rifle comes with CZ rings, they've always worked fine for me so long as they're not too high. I have an extra Leupold VX3 in 6.5 to 20X with 40mm objective. I may use that, although I was saving it for a 340 Weatherby single shot.