Which Vortex For My Ruger Predator?

[Narutakikun]

So I just bought a Ruger Predator in .308 and I have the scope choices for it narrowed down to two variations of the Vortex Diamondback. One is the HP 3-12x42 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HYRGTES) and the other is the Tactical 4-12x40 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MR4F4QK). the first is a few bucks more expensive (not a big deal for me), but other than that I'm not clear enough on the difference between the two to make a choice between them. I'd be using it for as much accurate/long distance shooting as I can squeeze out of the rifle, with maybe some hog hunting thrown in here or there. So what are the pluses and minuses of each one?

Thanks, all.

[Calico1404]

Side focus on #1 and a beautiful thing to have IMO

[crufflers]

I like Diamondbacks, but probably wouldn't be looking at Diamondbacks in the $300 range. You could get a Viper or VX-2, lots of other choices. My Viper HS LR was in that price range, so was the 6.5-20.

[Narutakikun]

I like Diamondbacks, but probably wouldn't be looking at Diamondbacks in the $300 range.

Why wouldn't you? Too expensive for what they are?

[OpticsPlanet]

The Diamondback Tactical has exposed turrets, which will probably be better suited for long range shooting than the capped turrets

The Primary Arms 4-14x44 with .308 ACSS reticle is a very capable optic that is a great option for shooting out to distance

-Matt S.

[stevebla]

Why not 4 x 16? Vortex Diamondback 4-16x42 I have two of them and like them a lot. Watch for sales.

[crufflers]

Why wouldn't you? Too expensive for what they are?

If I could spend the same money for better glass I would get better glass. I have a capped turret Diamondback 4-12 and it has always worked fine, but Viper line has a lot of deals and they have capped style turrets, target turrets, etc.... last two variable power Vipers I bought were $250, $300.

[crufflers]

I was comparing that $300 Diamondback Tactical on Amazon posted to Cabela's prices with giftcards, though... so it is still usually $100 cheaper than a Viper. I'd plan ahead and pay around $210 for a Diamondback Tactical 4-12.

[Calico1404]

Wait for deals OP< my buddy just picked up a crossfire II for $88 shipped after codes from Cabelas

[Horrendo Revolver]

For $300.00 I'll take a VX-2. For $200.00 I'll take a Diamondback.

[stevebla]

Vortex Optics Viper Rifle Scope 4-12x 40mm Dead-Hold BDC Reticle Matte $259
Vortex Optics Viper Rifle Scope 30mm Tube 6.5-20x 44mm Side Focus Matte $329 Mil Dot
I just got the 6.5 by 20 free shipping on both.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/492684/vortex-optics-viper-rifle-scope-4-12x-40mm-dead-hold-bdc-reticle-matte

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/2420772363/vortex-optics-viper-rifle-scope-30mm-tube-65-20x-44mm-side-focus-matte

[Bushwack44]

Why not 4 x 16? Vortex Diamondback 4-16x42 I have two of them and like them a lot. Watch for sales.

^^^^ What he said. Probably my favorite sub $400 scope.

Edit: Just saw this scope for $299 at https://gun.deals/product/vortex-dbk...le-299-free-sh

[FMJBT]

No experience with this scope, but for the price it seems like its worth a look:

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/209551/bushnell-engage-rifle-scope-30mm-tube-25-10x-44mm-tlt-turrets-side-focus-deploy-moa-reticle-matte

[michaelthepsycho]

I hate to suggest something else when you're dead-set on Vortex, but having spent time behind both Vortex and Sightron, their sub-$1,000 range is simply out-classed by the SI, SII, and SIII. Vortex as a brand doesn't really begin until the Razor HD gen I (and then they do pretty damn well against the competition in that price bracket).

If you watch the Long-Range Shooters of Utah YouTube channel, they really recommend Sightrons and SWFAs. I also had a straight 12 SWFA, and the glass was even better than the Sightrons (more saturation and clarity), but the eye box was slightly worse. It is, after all, a 20-year+ scope.

[MarikinaMan]

4-14 is a good focal length. Ive got a few Vortex scopes. I likem.

Ive had the Primary Arms, theyre good if you put a little TLC out of the box. Wipe the og grease of the turrets and leave just a light film. Watch the turrets for repeatability or don't mess with the turrets and use the reticle.

Athlons are my next purchase. I like the lifetime warranty.