New Scope for Rem 700 Mountain Rifle

[Anello]

Up late for work, so I figured I would post this now.

After some recent attempts to stretch my Rem 700 Mountain Rifle in .280 Rem I have come to the conclusion that I need to upgrade my scope. I am wanting to keep costs reasonable, so less than 1K. My goal is to get as proficient as possible out to 600 yards or better on steel. I'll likely never take a shot at that distance in the field. But, I passed a few shots over the past several seasons as I was uncomfortable shooting in excess of 350 or so with the Zeiss 3X9 that is on it now. Originally I wanted to keep it as light as reasonably possible, but I am abandoning that concept in favor of extending my range per the above. Additionally, my eyes have begun to go a bit, so I need the extra magnification, regardless. Do you all have any recommendations?

So far, after some good advice, I am locked in on the Zeiss V4 4X16X44, 4X16X50. I've not ruled out the 6X24X50, either, as it is only a 1.3 OZ penalty over the 4X16X50. Alternatively, in the 1" tube, I like the Tract Toric 3X15. But, I figure if I am upgrading, might as well do the 30 MM tube so I am not wanting to replace in the future. This is my go-to hunting rifle, so I don't want to revisit.

Respectfully asking for any advice you all can offer.

 

[380bull]

Following...currently trying to decide on a scope for a new .280 ai

 

[Jmeicke]

I just finished shopping for a new, low-cost scope for my 7mm - 08 albeit for shorter ranges so not in the powers you’re referencing here (400 yards max really). Hard to go wrong with the Zeiss you mentioned. I will say that as far as bang for buck goes Vortex brings some serious value. Both the crossfire ii and the viper family were awesome. All of the opinions I can find online and otherwise seem to agree. If you’re able it is extremely helpful to get to a bass pro or any other brick and mortar establishment with a large selection to look through and compare. I favored the vortex products to many of the higher dollar brands at comparable powers. Bear in mind though that I was looking for a scope for a $300 drag through the mud hunting rifle so I was never going to stick anything real ritzy on there. Just my two cents. Good luck!

 

[CApighunter]

The V4 4-16 is a great scope, got one on a Tikka 270wsm

 

[Anello]

Roger that. Thanks for the responses, fellas.

CApighunter -- Legit vote for the V4. Incidentally, I've never owned a rifle in .270 WSM, but I have come dangerously close to buying one several times. Really like the specs on that cartridge.

JMeicke - went back and forth on how much I want to spend on the scope as I am notoriously rough on gear ... and I promised myself some years ago I'd never get a dialing scope when I started rifle hunting again. Age has a way of re-calibrating ideological stances. So here we sit. I've not looked at Vortex in some time, so I'll look again.

 

[JakeSCH]

I would recommend the 44mm objective because if you are going light weight you probably do not have the high enough comb for a good cheek weld with the 50mm.

16x is more than enough for steel at those distances.

I will 2x that it might be worth looking at the vortex LHT, it is a "similar" scope but weighs 3 to 4 oz less if that matters to you. If weight doesn't matter I would probably go with the v4.

 

[Anello]

Good thought. Thanks for the response. I wondered about the 50 MM objective issue. Wasn't able to find conclusive data on that last night. So, much appreciated.

 

[Abolt2]

You will see a big difference just going to the 30mm tube.

 

[Abolt2]

Definitely go 30mm. Do it right and be done. It’s only money. Somebody will spend it for you, if you don’t.