Need opinion with choice of scope

[marchboom]

Have a 26" bbl AR used primarily for coyote and PD hunting. Max range probably 500-600 yds. I have narrowed my choice of a scope to the following:

Nikon M-223 4-16x42 with BDC 600 reticle OR

Vortex Viper 6.5-20x50 with Dead Hold BDC and 30mm tube.

Would the extra power with the Vortex be beneficial or no big deal at the distance I'm shooting?

Any other info would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[abijohn]

Bigger is better for gathering light, also the 30mm tube gives more adjustment, especially at ranges out to 600yds. Personally like Vortex over Nikon, have both. The next guy you talk with will have the opposite advise. Look thru them both and make your own choice based on your vision. Good luck and happy huntin!

 

[Ohen Cepel]

I think I would do the Vortex for the larger tube and opening. More power may/may not matter but I think those two things are a gain.

 

[Walkalong]

The power may or may not be useful, depending on conditions.

The 50MM will not give a big edge in the daylight. Hunting up until dusk? Yea, it can help, if the glass and coatings are equal between scopes.

 

[bman940]

scope

I use Nikon's M-Series of scopes on a number of my AR's but just because you have an AR doesn't mean you need a AR designated scope. For your use you might consider Nikon's PROSTAFF 5 3.5-14x50 SF FFP Matte BDC Product 16366. I have one on order for my longrange coyote rig. FFP and BDC, one set of distances for your aiming points. Plus excellent glass for early morning and late evening shooting. Let me know what you think about this idea. Also take a look at Nikon's M-223 XR mount, 20MOA of elevation built into it.
I hope this info helps? If you only shoot one type of ammo you might consider a Custom Turret as well. I guy I know just did a write up discussing how accurate his set up with the Custom turret is. Worth a look.

 

[farmerboy78]

I'd vote the vortex 100%. But check out the swfa ss 16x.

 

[KCJ]

Vortex Viper! I like the 4-16x50 due to FOV and their no hassle warranty.

 

[greyling22]

big glass and tubes get heavy fast. I'd much rather have better smaller glass. if you can afford it.

just to throw something else out there, how about a demo bushnell 4500 8-32x40 https://www.natchezss.com/demo-elit...ntLink&utm_medium=35987&utm_campaign=48247-NA

it's about the same price as that vortex, and power galore

 

[ajd3530]

While Nikon makes a nice product, I am sold on Vortex, especially the higher end stuff.

 

[22lr]

I have 2 Vortex PST scopes, a 1-4X24 and the 6-20X50 FFP. Amazing scopes and I would highly recommend the 6-20X50 (the PST or FFP option may or may not be worth the money to you).

I'm sure there may be higher quality glass on some other brands or cheaper options for what you are actually buying. But the warranty and exceptional customer service is amazing and worth every penny!

 

[FL-NC]

If I was trying to save $, I would look at the super snipers from SWFA. If I was willing to spend more ($500 or up) I would look at Horus vision. Can't speak for vortex, never used one.