Super Sniper 16x42 or Nikon Monarch 5x20 or 4x16

[Bear2000]

Hi All,

I'd like to replace the Simmons 4x12-40 that came on my Savage 12FV .223 that I bought at Dicks Sports with a nicer scope. The primary purpose: punching paper from 100-300, possibly up to 500 yards. After extensive research (I think), I've come down to three choices:

1) Super Sniper 16x42 ($312 shipped)
2) Nikon Monarch 5x20-44 ($420 shipped), Nikoplex (doesn't come in Mil-Dot)
3) Nikon Monarch 4x16-44 Mil-Dot ($370 shipped)

I would also eventually like to mount this scope on a .308 bolt action (Savage 12FV, Remington 700, or Tikka - haven't made up my mind yet) using picatinny rails and Leopold latch-type rings.

I know this question has been asked, but I thought I'd ask again. It would be nice to save some money on the SuperSniper, but I budgeted c. $400 for this purchase, so that's not my primary concern.

I like the adjustability, side focus, clarity, and reputation of the Nikons, but I've heard enough good things about the SuperSniper to add it to my list. I want the most clarity, quality, and accuracy for the money.

Thanks!

Bear

 

[BamBam-31]

Don't have any experience w/ the Nikon scopes, but I have owned two Super Snipers (both 10x). Exceptional scopes for the money. You can buy one for less than three bills if you shop around on ARFCOM, Ebay, or www.samplelist.com.

 

[Bear2000]

Thanks, BamBam. I keep hearing that. I'm concerned I won't like the fixed power, but then again, I haven't had my current scope on anything other than 12x since I've had it.

 

[Babalouie]

Nikon makes a great scope. I love mine. Don't know much about Super Snipers but everyone who owns em loves em.

 

[Davo]

I use my SS 16x for just that, but a variable is more versatile when it comes to hunting, etc.

 

[Bear2000]

Davo,

I've heard (somewhere) that the SS16x has been a bit more problematic than the more popular SS10x. Yours, I'm guessing, has served you well? I've also heard that the windage/elevation knobs have a "mushy" feel to them and don't give you the "snappy" click of other scopes. Any thoughts on that?

Thanks for your input. It's a tough decision.

 

[JTW Jr.]

I have a SS 10x mounted on an AR and one also mounted on a Tikka Lite in 308 , both have held up well , clicks are consistant and precise.

So far I am really pleased with the performance for the money.

 

[goalie]

I have a SS 10x that has been mounted on a .308, and more recently, my .50 BMG without any problems. It tracks well, and has held zero great.

That said, my Nikon Monarch scopes have much better glass than my SS does. You can really tell the difference at first light or sunset.

Either way, you'll have decent glass on your rifle.

 

[Davo]

I've heard (somewhere) that the SS16x has been a bit more problematic than the more popular SS10x. Yours, I'm guessing, has served you well? I've also heard that the windage/elevation knobs have a "mushy" feel to them and don't give you the "snappy" click of other scopes. Any thoughts on that?

I initially had a 10x SS, and the knobs and most everything else were identical. When the SS is new, its knobs are a bit stiff and mushy, but that goes away with break in. In my case I just cycled the knobs through the full range of motion a dozen times and everything was fine.
It holds zero perfectly, tracks perfect, and focus clearly (both the reticle and the target downrange).

 

[S&WKING]

i dont think i would like a fixed power and i love my 3 monarchs and i have a 6X24 on its way for my 204 that hasnt been built yet and it will be awsome

 

[Bear2000]

Thanks for your replies on this. I'm leaning toward the 5x20-44 Monarch. It just seems like a lot of scope for the money, even if the Super Sniper is well-liked by everyone. Even though putting holes in paper will be it's primary application, if I ever did want to go hunting I could use it.

You should check out Arcadian-Sales.com for prices on scopes. The 5x20-44 typical sells for $490-520; they've got it for $410.00.