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help selecting a scope

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ahuebel View Drop Down
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    Posted: January/02/2007 at 14:58

I am in the market for a new scope and was hoping I could get some advice. I got some good advice when looking for binoculars here so I am hoping it will be the same with the rifle scopes. I am looking at either a Swarovski or Zeiss 50 or 56mm objective scope. I hunt in east texas, mostly pastures but I also hunt in bottom areas where there is a good amount of tree cover. I want to be able to see as well as possible at dawn and dusk. I was thinking of something in the range of a 3.5-10 or 12. My longest shots would be about 250 yds and they would be seldom. I do however like to see as much detail on the animal as possible. I was looking at the victory line of zeiss but there are a number of models to choose from and even more when you look at the swaros.

 

Any input is appreciated.

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Trinidad View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Trinidad Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: January/02/2007 at 15:29

For hunting scopes in this price range I like Schmidt & Benders. I am currently using a 2.5-10x56 that I like very much but the 3-12x42 is just as brilaiant minus the almost no light capabilities of the 56MM but in a more compact package. The 2.5-10x56 is large and if weight is a issue I do not recommend this scope. So far I have found the construction and lens quality of S&B superior to Zeiss and Khales with the current swarovskis comming in fourth.

I have not tried the latest Lotu-tec coated Zeiss that came out in late 2006 or thier military version Hensolt. Hensolt scopes are highly regarded by a respectable source but there are better suited as tactical scopes. There is also a new Swarovski(Z6) on the way later this year with a exellent magnification range but it is not known yet if the lenses or construction have improved.

 

http://www.riflescopes.com/products/945892/schmidt_bender_3- 12x42_variable_hunting_30mm_riflescope.htm

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ahuebel View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote ahuebel Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: January/02/2007 at 15:36
As far as weight goes, I hunt off of stools or logs about 33% of the time. As soon as I can get my heartrate down to a dull roar, I still find I move a bit when just using a knee to rest my elbow. Do you feel the weight of the 56mm would make it too difficult to shoot with limited support?
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Trinidad View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Trinidad Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: January/02/2007 at 15:44
I do not Know what the wieght of your current set-up is but the 2.5-10x56 is 22oz. Both the 3-12x42 and 2.5-10x56 will allow you to shoot well beyond legal hours with superb consistant quality. Weight helps with recoil but slows you down and limits your ground covered a bit. With a heavy set-up you will get tired at one point,this point is different for everyone.

Edited by SVD666
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ahuebel View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote ahuebel Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: January/02/2007 at 15:57

That is something I have not really thought about. I will have to start paying attention to the sunrise and sunset times! Right now I can safely assume it is legal shooting times because I just use my naked eye. My current setup is extremely light. It is an old gun with a 30mm objective scope. I may have to carry along a bipod :).

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Trinidad View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Trinidad Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: January/02/2007 at 16:03
Good deal. Let us know what you decide on and your opinions of the scope. Best of luck to you, and welcome to the OT.
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Dolphin View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Dolphin Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: January/03/2007 at 20:14
Save your money, Bushnell Elite 4200s will compete with the best of them minus a few clicks. Its a matter of diminishing returners.  If you are happy wasting the extra money thats fine, but in my opinion, that is what you are doing. Where I come from, nobody, misses a shot with cheapo scopes and they are some of he fines shots in the world.  But, as I always say, be happy with your purchase and do not ever look back.
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jonbravado View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote jonbravado Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: January/04/2007 at 07:47

Save your money - buy a meostar by meopta -

 

the 3x12x56 can be had for under 700 bucks and IMO outperforms lots of zeiss and swaro's - put money back into solid mounts.

 

i have a 56mm meostar and absolutely love it.  they suck at marketing their brand, but it is a serious piece of glass from an ancient optics company.

 

kahles C 56mm would also be a wonderful choice for around 1200 bucks.  But seriously, look through a meostar in the lowlight and have fun.

 

you'll see what i mean.  I have personally compared my Meostar to a kahles C 56mm in the woods at dusk and it's amazing qualities really shine.

 

get a german #4 reticle for best lowlight view w/out illumination.

 

good luck.  let us know what you decide.

 

J



Edited by jonbravado
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