Sharing Scopes

[lovethosesooners]

While I know this isn't totally unique, this idea may be really helpful to some...

Just picked up a new FN FNAR, which has a picatinny top rail-have a Daniel Defense M4 V7, which of course also has top rail-going to add a picatinny rail to my Remington 750 semi-auto 30-06.

By using the American Defense quick release mount, I can move my Leupold Hog Scope, Nikon M-223 3x12 scope with BDC, or the Eotech XPS-2 between all 3 rifles (of course this requires 2 of the mounts).

It takes about 1 minute to move any 1 of these and they do return to zero (only have to make record of dial positions for each rifle along with the mounting spot on each rail).

Gives great versatility to each rifle!

 

[hardluk1]

No, several long guns deserve there own optics to so I don't swap optics. Besides I might want different power levels or rectical types for different purposes. As a hunter you drop a rifle and damage the scope?? No back up. 4 rifles & 4 optics ready to go.

 

[firesky101]

I like the idea, but I have dedicated optics on all my guns that need optics. If another purpose is needed, it is a good excuse to buy another gun. Weird considering I am such a big fan of switch barrel guns.

 

[CharlieDeltaJuliet]

Nothing wrong with sharing scopes. I have a buddy that shoots long range competitions, he has numerous scopes but swaps his favorite (a Premier) on three seperate rifles. He knows their zeros and can set them up in no time. I haven't done it, but after seeing him shoot, have no issues with it...

 

[redneck2]

IMO, you'd be better off buying one good scope rather than three cheap ones for the same money. I've probably got close to $5,000 just in scopes.

 

[lovethosesooners]

Some good points made here, and for all my bolt actions, I too like the dedicated scope per rifle.

However, as quick and easy as this is to change these out using the A.D. mount, I like the versatility of using a 1.25x4 illuminated reticle for hog hunting, or, a quality 3x12 for longer range stuff.

Without this set up, I'd be limited to a longer range type of scope for the .308 FNAR, the 1.25x4 Hog Scope would be the only one I could use on the 750, and the Eotech or the 3x12 for the AR (and even then, only could change these through the use of the quick change mount).

 

[tryshoot]

If returns to zero, Perfectly fine. Sounds like you have by keeping notes and trying. Will also tell you when scope goes bad and if a mount prob. happens.

 

[Maverick223]

Personally I'm not a big fan of moving my optics. One problem is getting the height/eye relief right for proper cheekweld; another is maintaining an accurate zero, even when you dial back to the proper adjustment (you'd be surprised how many optics, some even fairly costly examples, fail the "box test" and will not repeat adjustments). In fact, I'd like to get a second one set up for my DGR (which is also equipped with back-up express sights for emergency use). I already have the optic, just need a second set of QR rings and get it zeroed. With this arrangement I'll have a scoped rifle with a back-up optic available in case of problems with the primary, could be the difference between a successful and failed hunt, or even being squashed.

That being said, if it's a range gun or a rifle that you plan to use for non-dangerous game/inexpensive hunts I don't see anything wrong with your method, just make sure to verify the zero beforehand.

 

[madcratebuilder]

If you swap back and fourth on a Picitinny rail so you don't have to touch the rings it works well. If it involves moving rings it not worth the trouble. In the long run your better off with a dedicated scope for each fire arm.

 

[taliv]

i think the intention of the QD mounts was the other way around... one rifle, with multiple scopes. a scope for precision, a red dot for blasting, a NV optic for low light, etc.

if you had an unlimited budget, there would be no reason to do what you're doing, but hey, none of us have that, and it's a reasonable workaround so rock on

 

[lovethosesooners]

Not sure I'm making my case very well as to why I think this is such a great idea

The American Defense mount I'm talking about are actually fairly expensive at $200 ea, so it's not as much about reducing cost in this case as my appreciation for the flexibility gained by using this set up.

By being able to easily, quickly and maintain zero between rifles by moving this 1 piece quick release mount (2 locks) between rifles, I can use:
Leupold Hog scope w luminated reticle for dark hunt
OR
Nikon M-223 (Monarch) 3x12 for daylight hunting or at the range
Or
Eotech XPS-2 for any kind of closer range use

A dedicated scope on each limits each rifle to a specific use.....being able to move like this makes each rifle much more flexible in their use (Remington 750 30-06, FNAR .308, and DD AR15).

Sure it's not for everyone, but I thought it was a pretty good idea

 

[Maverick223]

If it works for you go for it. I just think it has limited utility for the average user, and doesn't suit my needs well. For someone that is looking for more versatility with a particular set-up it might be fine, I just tend to build a rifle for a somewhat specific task and stick the appropriate optic atop it to achieve that task.

FWIW a Kahles Helia with Multizero would seemingly be ideal for your use.