Decent 12-18x scope around $100?

[stretch2]

I'm looking to upgrade my current scope (a BSA Sweet 22 3-9x40) that I use for target shooting on my Savage Mk II .22lr. The 3-9x is fine when I'm shooting 50 yards, but I'd like a bit higher power for 100+ yard targets. I think a max zoom of 12 to 18x should work for me. I'm on a budget which makes things a bit challenging. I'm looking at these scopes:

CenterPoint 4-16x40 at Wallyworld for around $70
Tasco 6-24x40 for around $80
BSA Sweet 22 6-18x40 for around $70
Weaver Kaspa 4-16x44 for around $110
Redfield Revenge 4-12x44 for around $140

I won't have an opportunity to try any of these scopes before buying so thought I'd see if anyone has owned / used any of these?

[Cody Lightfoot]

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/1156168462/simmons-whitetail-classic-rifle-scope-65-20x-50mm-adjustable-objective-matte

I have this on my CZ 452 17hmr and I like it a lot.

[stretch2]

Thanks Cody. How's the eye relief? How clear are the optics at high magnification? I had a chance to try a Vortex and Nikon last week (long range with bigger caliber rifles) and had a devil of a time lining up my eye at high magnification when using the Nikon. I wear eye glasses which probably is part of the problem.

[MrSam]

I own the CenterPoint. It's sitting on one of my air guns, and may try it out on the AR. It's a nice optic, FOV is decent, and eye relief isn't too bad (not the best, but it's not terrible).

Redfield and Vortex are both in your price range, both can be had for under $160 with a bit of searching.

[stretch2]

I found a Redfield (it's the last scope on my original post) for a good price. I'd go with the Vortex Crosspoint II 6-18x44 if I could find one in my price range, but so far the cheapest has been around $210+shipping.

[Varg Vikernes]

You missed the Vortex Diamondbacks selling at Aimsurplus for $150 about 3 months back.

I've seen the Crossfire's go for $120 I believe.

[3006]

Bought a air rilfe with a center point it lasted less then fifty shots before the rectical turned side ways.
I have good luck with Tascos and Bushnell .don't know about the newer ones as they change manufacturing a lot.

[stretch2]

@3006 - I'm told springer air rifles are murder on scopes, not surprising that the CP scope didn't last very long.

@Varg - I've seen the Crossfire II 3-9 go for around that, but not the 6-18x. I'm scouring the internet and the lowest I've found is $209.

[3006]

It was a Benjamin nitro xl with a factory center point from what its the foward recoil that kills them. I always run center fire scopes on my 22s with no problem I don't wear glass so I can't comment on that.

[REDdawn6]

Maybe check out Nikko Stirling, Simmons or AIM Sports (good stuff all around)

[REDdawn6]

http://www.amazon.com/Aim-Sports-4-16X50-A-O-E-Rangefinder/dp/B000WW6VSQ

[Jimi Jah]

I use a BSA sweet 223 6x18 I got from Natchez for $54. Works great, less filling.

[Varg Vikernes]

Just know that you get what you pay for. An optic, at higher magnifications for $100 is gonna look like crap most likely.

[stretch2]

@Jimi - I got my Sweet 22 3-9x40 for around $50 and it's worked fine. I just need some higher magnification to see my bullet holes at 100+ yards.

@Varg - That's usually true. Last week I was shooting 720 - 975 yards using my step son's .223 and .308. The .223 had a pricey Nikon scope and the .308 had a moderately priced Vortex scope. To my eye, the Vortex was hands down a better scope. The optics were brighter and easier to focus (even wearing my glasses). So price alone doesn't always equate to quality.

[bombadillo]

Vortex Crossfire II