Input needed on 1-4x scope for my AR

[paintballdad]

Looking to top off my Recce style build with one of the 1-4x scopes listed below (i'm trying to keep it around the $300 price range). I have searched & read threads here and on other sites regarding each scope but was hoping someone here has had experience with more than one of the scopes listed. Looking for first hand comparison and thoughts from shooters who has used/tried 2, maybe 3 or more of the following scopes. I'm leaning towards the Leatherwood CMR or maybe the Burris TAC-30 for the 30mm tubes and reticle styles. Any input is appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

http://www.hi-luxoptics.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=56

http://www.burrisoptics.com/ff30tactical1.html

http://www.nikonsportoptics.com/Products/Riflescopes/8485/M-223-1-4x20.html#tab-ProductDetail.ProductTabs.TechSpecs

http://www.millettsights.com/scopes/dms/

http://www.konus.com/prodotti.php?id_c=9&id_p=463#

[jimmykan]

I have the Burris TAC30 1-4x24 and Burris PEPR mount on an AR rifle with 18" barrel.

Clear glass, wide field of view, true 1X magnification, usable reticle, generous/forgiving eye relief, and definitely worth the $300 in my opinion.

The adjustments are 1/2 MOA per click, not 1/4 MOA, and the clicks feel a bit mushy. However, the scope holds zero very well, and I only need to make adjustments when I switch loads.

The magnification adjustment is pretty stiff to turn, and it's not an adjustment ring, the whole eye-bell turns, so forget about using flip-up lens caps. Consider getting a cat-tail or scope lever, or whatever you call it.

[3GunFunShooter]

Burris TAC-30 is an excellent choice. I also like the Millet DMS, which is on my HD rifle.
I do run the Burris XTR on my 3 gun competition JP, but that is out of your budget.
Check out AR15.com in the optic section, a lot of information on scopes over there.
Just remember, some of these scopes require extended eye relief and the choice on mounts is limited and can get expensive, sometimes almost as much as the scope.

[paintballdad]

I'm planning to use a PEPR mount, i think that should work with the scopes listed. Please LMK if i need to use a different mount. Thanks.

[Full Clip]

I have the Millet. It's holding and works nicely. The "illuminated" claim is a bit weak, though. Has to get pretty dark before it's useful at all.
Neat accessory here if you end up getting one.

[OpticsPlanet]

Without a doubt, I would chose either the Leupold Mark AR or the Nikon M223. Both are designed and have reticles calibrated for use with .223 round!

http://www.opticsplanet.net/nikon-1-4x20-matte-point-blank-riflescope.html

http://www.opticsplanet.net/leupold-1-4x20-mark-ar-duplex-riflescope-67170.html

George P.

[SuperSet]

I've owned the Burris TAC-30 and looked through/fondled the M223, CMR and DMS-1. I'd choose the TAC-30 (or the newer MTAC). The reticule is daylight visible (not daylight-illuminated).

[paintballdad]

The TAC-30 seems to be a popular choice. I'm not sure i'm going to like the rotating end bell for magnification adjustment. Did not know that before starting this thread but i haven't ruled it out completely just yet. Would like some input on the CMR & M-223.

[FMJBT]

I have the CMR on an 18" SPR type build. Excellent scope for medium and long range work. The reticle is awesome for holdovers out to at least 650 yards which is the furthest I've pushed mine out to. Seems to work equally well with both 62 grain XM855 and PRVI 75 grain Match. Where it's lacking is in the CQB arena. the reticle is a bit too thin and illumination too dim for rapid daylight engagement at close ranges. Having said that though, the low light performance of the illuminated reticle is awesome. I've been able to put 30 rounds into a fist sized group at 75 yards in total darkness with only moonlight and the green illuminated reticle set at the lower settings.

[jimmykan]

The TAC-30 seems to be a popular choice. I'm not sure i'm going to like the rotating end bell for magnification adjustment. Did not know that before starting this thread but i haven't ruled it out completely just yet. Would like some input on the CMR & M-223.

So it seems that the new Burris MTAC is basically the TAC30 with that very improvement: The magnification is now adjusted by a ring, and the bell stays put. Also, the illumination is adjusted by dial instead of multiple button presses.

[Hoop]

I would spend a couple hundred extra and get the vortex PST 1-4. If you can't go over 3 bills then get the burris.

[SuperSet]

So it seems that the new Burris MTAC is basically the TAC30 with that very improvement: The magnification is now adjusted by a ring, and the bell stays put. Also, the illumination is adjusted by dial instead of multiple button presses.

You gotta hand it to Burris. They listened to users and corrected the TAC-30's deficiencies and released a new version, quickly. You don't see that from optics makers very often.

[paintballdad]

I would spend a couple hundred extra and get the vortex PST 1-4. If you can't go over 3 bills then get the burris.

I did check out the Vortex but at 2x my budget it was not considered. I was not aware of the Burris MTAC and it improves on the TAC-30's shortcomings (rotating endbell and odd ilummination control) but the price increased by $100. SWFA currently has a CMR/SSALT mount combo for around $300 and that would put the MTAC/PEPR purchase at around $180 more. Is the price difference between the CMR/SSALT and MTAC/PEPR justified? That $180 would go a long way to building my son an AR-22 to shoot.

[Hoop]

I've heard good and bad about the CMR. For 300 I guess you could chance it.

Like I said my vote is for the PST first. It's more money but I've used it and I know that it is good.

[IPSICK]

Depending on your use, I really like the Burris because of its easy to acquire reticle. Not the best for precision shots but good for action shooting.