Anyone have a scope suggestion for a 7mm mag? A friend recently bought the rifle and is looking for advice. He's not looking for the best available...just the best scope for the money. I'm not sure what he will use the rifle for, probably long range target (200-300 yd).
This is a very subjective topic to say the least. I have scoped my last two rifles (.308 and .223) with the Vortex Viper HS-T. It was a daunting choice with so many options but the reviews were great and the warranty is awesome. They have a big line to choose from to fit budgets and needs. Vortex Optics - Home
I have never been unhappy with a Leupold. I think a 3-9x scope would be about right- I think the VX-II represents a good value at about $300. Of course, you can spend as much as you like!
I like Burris and Leupold. Fullfield II and Vari-X 2, either would work fine. Targets @ 2-300 yrds, might as well jump to a 4-16 or 6-24. Reticle choice would be personal, all depends on application. Lots of good ones out there. www.riflescopes.com www.opticsplanet.com Read the reviews, see what works. But... a 7-mag for targets @ 300 yrds? Push him, what's he really thinking? Elk in Idaho? That may change things.
I'll chime in for vortex. Great optics great warranty, and as JRSDWS said aa line to fit any budget. I'm using a crossfire ii 1-4x24 V bright on an AR, and am very pleased with it.
Vortex is the best value for the $. Try to go somewhere where he can handle all major brands, then buy online for the best price. I can lead you to one of the best vortex dealers in the country if you want. He's top notch and can answer any questions. Pm for his info.
I would take Vortex over Leupold at that price point. If fixed power is good SWFA are great scopes and will handle 338 lapua and 50 BMG for around $300.
I will still take the Leupold made in U.S.A. Although Vortex is an American based company out of Wisconsin, their scopes are made in China, the Philippines, and Japan. I try and buy what ever I can made right here at home. I can buy a very nice Leupold in that $250 to $400 range. JMHO.......
So is nightforce and a few others. Japanese glass is way cheaper than American. The newer nightforce are made in the USA carry a price tag over $3k. I'm sure Leupold is using foreign glass and assembling over here.
Not sure if they are or not, they claim not be though. Just saying what the Vortex rep told me. As for Nightforce, not really even sure what that is, but I do know $3000 for a scope is a little above my pay grade. LOL.... I would not have as much problem with Japan, as I do buying anything made in China. Just my 2cents....
Just checked those Nightforce scopes out, says made in USA, seem very nice. Like I said though, a little to pricey for me to be chasing deer around the mountains of WV.
Just my opinion but you are talking about a gun with capabilities of killing at 500-700yards never under scope your rifles ability. 7mm is a big weapon I have one similar in a 300win mag with Leupold VX III 6X14 with a 50mm objective. The gun out shoots me. Yes no problem killing a 500 yards and with the hand loads I have I bet I could do better. All I am saying is don't buy a gun that can shoot great but is limited by the scope that is on it. Good glass lasts for ever if taken care of. Always opt for the best possible scope you can afford.
I had the Vortex PST made in Philippines I think. They were fine on a 338 Papua and 300wsm out to 800 yards.
I'm using a Nikon Buckmasters 4.5-14 on my 270 for ground hogs out to 425 yds. this has been a great scope for me. I've spent a lot of hours looking through this scope
