New to optics how to pick

[Vandals909]

I'm new to searching for the best optics for my tikka t3 .308 . I plan to use the rifle for target shooting. Would like to be able to see my target easily at 200-300yrds.

Without being able to test which scope is best for me what is the best way to narrow down what's out there? I know nothing about which reticle is best for me, etc...


Thanks

[Bagel_7]

I would recommend Vortex Optics, I love everything I have from them and its backed with the best warranty in the business. Also you have the asset of being a member here. Attempt to arrange a range trip with a few local members here. At a range not the desert, trust reasons. This way you can try out a few scopes, and see what you like and what you don't. Good luck

[NYT]

what is your price range? where do you live?

[russ69]

The first question is: How are you going to use the scope? You said 200-300 yards but is that standing, prone, or from a bench rest? We'll be able to help more after that. Oh, and a budget would be nice.

[ryno066]

I'm happy with this Vortex

http://smile.amazon.com/Vortex-Crossfire-4-12x50-Dead-Hold-Reticle/dp/B00794LIEM?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00

Rings

http://smile.amazon.com/Vortex-Optics-Riflescope-Picatinny-Weaver/dp/B003GSOI1K?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

[Vandals909]

Bench wrest mostly and price no more then $1,200 for scope only. Thanks

[Vandals909]

Looking around and people with the Tikka T3 Lite seem to like the balance of an optic in the range of -10x42mm at the largest. Anything bigger seems to through off the balance of the gun.

Whats your opinion?

Anything better or compare with the nighforce SHV 3-10x42?

Thanks

[NYT]

throw off the balance as in the weight?

[Vandals909]

Weight and handling. Again I'm reading reviews online. Hard to pick optics without "test driving" them.

[Divernhunter]

If you are shooting from a bench it really does not matter as to scope size.
Nightforce optics are great. I have a couple of Nightforce NXS 5.5X22X56 with NP-R2 reticles on my 50bmg rifles and have shot them accurately to a bit over 1400 yards.
Nightforce, Leupold, Nikon, Vortex and some others will work. If only target shooting you may want to look for more than 10X. You will want an AO lens if target shooting but not if hunting. If hunting then a 3X9X40 or 3.5X10X40 duplex reticle will do you just fine. Make it a Leupold or if you have extra cash a Nightforce.

My 2 Cents

[NYT]

Weight and handling. Again I'm reading reviews online. Hard to pick optics without "test driving" them.

yeah and it will be even harder to test drive them on your rifle. if youre bench shooting and only spending 1200, you will be doing just fine with vortex.

[geoint]

I threw a vortex on my PWS MK220. Been pretty happy with it.

[Thoughts]

The Leupold Mark 4 3.5-10 is a little above your budget, but it's a nice scope, in my experience.

[russ69]

yeah and it will be even harder to test drive them on your rifle. if youre bench shooting and only spending 1200, you will be doing just fine with vortex.

Have to agree with this.

[morfeeis]

Bench wrest mostly and price no more then $1,200 for scope only. Thanks

Burris and vortex offer the best bang for the buck in your price range.