Hunting scope ~$500

[Bearwhisky]

First post here but have been a longtime observer. I am ready to take the leap into a decent rifle/scope set up that is consistent. I have had a chance to read Form's testing and see that SHV, Trijicon and SWFA seem to be the default.
I am trying to stay around $500 or less which limits some of the options.
I have looked at the Trijicon Credo 3X9, Meopta 5, and Vortex Viper 4x16. I really like the idea of tehCredo, but am a little concerned the max 9 power will make me wish I had opted for a little more power.
Primarily this will be a hunting rifle/scope with shots less than 300 yards. I would like the capability to shoot 500 at the range at some point.
I really like the idea of illuminated reticles

Rifle - I am looking at the Weatherby Talon in 308 as of now.
Scope Rings - any recommendations on type and height?

I think a 3-9 would be fine for those distances, and come in at less weight and size than bigger options. My recommendation would be the trijicon with talley rings


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[Fartrell Cluggins]

The Credo 3-9x40 is a fantastic scope. My only caution is that if you have a rifle with a 90 degree bolt throw, there can be bolt clearance issues. I also have an Optika 5 and can recommend them as well.

 

[BLJ]

There's this 3-9 Credo in the classifieds for under $500 right now. 9X is perfectly usable for 500+ yards. For your question about buying stuff second hand, just do the usual homework to not get scammed by people. Use the Goods and Services option for the 3% fee if you're nervous. Get pictures of the glass. Get pictures with handwritten notes in them etc.

Sold - Trijicon Credo 3-9 Mil-Square (Red)

Trijicon Credo 3-9x40 with the Mail-Square reticle in red. Had to the range 3 times and hunted 4 days with it last week. Excellent combo of features but I can’t warm up to the reticle. I had it in Vortex Pro rings torqued to 18 inch pounds but it still shows ring marks. More significant on...

rokslide.com

Aside from that, in your price range, I wouldn't hesitate to run a 6x or 10x SWFA again like others have mentioned.

I’ll have to agree with him on this.