Nightforce NXS 2.5-10x42 vs Nightforce NX6 2-12x42? Help me decide

[Rancheria]

I have recently been bighting my nails trying to decide on an optic for my sheep rifle and have decided that paying for reliability in a compact package along with aesthetics leads me to these 2 nightforce options - the NX6 2-12x42 and the NXS 2-10x42.

Really looking for input on the two scopes and specifically what reticle / focal plane you recommend for my use case: Mountain hunting.

I definitely do not love the ffp reticle option on the new nx6 so but can be convinced otherwise if people think ffp would be that much of an advantage, even with 12x max range.

Open to any and all ideas.
Thanks.

 

[chizelhead]

I had the same choice for the same application and went with the NXS primarily because I couldn't stand the NX6 reticle. By going with the NXS I saved weight, most sheep aren't that far where I need to dial my 6.5 prc, and I can dial at 10x if they are. For reference, I'm coming from an ATACR 4-16x42 Mil-c. I'm not the optics pro people are here so take my decision/opinion with a grain of salt.

 

[Rancheria]

I had the same choice for the same application and went with the NXS primarily because I couldn't stand the NX6 reticle. By going with the NXS I saved weight, most sheep aren't that far where I need to dial my 6.5 prc, and I can dial at 10x if they are. For reference, I'm coming from an ATACR 4-16x42 Mil-c. I'm not the optics pro people are here so take my decision/opinion with a grain of salt.

Cheers. I appreciate the input

 

[FOS373]

I haven’t tried or looked through the new NX6. Also, I generally like NF products, I have ATACRs and NX8s. So take this with a grain of salt.

I’ve used a variety of NXS 2-10s (24s, 32s and 42s) and they have all worked great on a variety of platforms. Moose hunting in timber with a BAR 30-06. Dall sheep, elk and caribou with a 308. Brown Bear and Blacktail with a 375 H&H. I’ve used them on gas guns at the range. I’ve dialed with them and also just shot. In the end, they worked.

I’ve stupidly traded away one or two.

I personally wish they still had the IHR reticle available, but I still have one that has one. The current reticle is a bit thin, but also my eyes are getting older.

I also wish the current (I think at least) version had a capped windage. Some of my older ones have the capped windage.

 

[Samson7x]

Nxs. Lighter weight with a better reticle IMO. I love mine for mountain work.

 

[keystone112]

I have several scopes but not either of these NFs. So take my advice with a grain of salt.

If you’re buying a high end scope, make sure you are happy with the reticle. Don’t talk yourself into one that you really don’t like.

 

[thenodnarb]

With an MPVO I don't think a FFP is strictly necessary. You will likely be dialed to 10x (NXS) where the subtensions are accurate, or you will be shooting at a distance so close that subtensions won't matter while on something under 10x. Same for the NX6. Personally I would go with a used NXS which can be had very reasonably. If you strictly were shopping new, I'd be inclined to go with the NX6, maybe in their SFP model, to take advantage of some of the new features, like the field set zero set, and the ability to order a BDC turrent from nightforce for your rifle.

 

[schmidty3]

Has anyone actually got eyes on the nx6 yet?

I could certainly do without the donut, but is it that bad?

 

[Rancheria]

With an MPVO I don't think a FFP is strictly necessary. You will likely be dialed to 10x (NXS) where the subtensions are accurate, or you will be shooting at a distance so close that subtensions won't matter while on something under 10x. Same for the NX6. Personally I would go with a used NXS which can be had very reasonably. If you strictly were shopping new, I'd be inclined to go with the NX6, maybe in their SFP model, to take advantage of some of the new features, like the field set zero set, and the ability to order a BDC turrent from nightforce for your rifle.

Great advice. Thank you

 

[elsb0048]

With an MPVO I don't think a FFP is strictly necessary. You will likely be dialed to 10x (NXS) where the subtensions are accurate, or you will be shooting at a distance so close that subtensions won't matter while on something under 10x. Same for the NX6. Personally I would go with a used NXS which can be had very reasonably. If you strictly were shopping new, I'd be inclined to go with the NX6, maybe in their SFP model, to take advantage of some of the new features, like the field set zero set, and the ability to order a BDC turrent from nightforce for your rifle.

I'm a definite beginner so take this with a big 'ol pile of salt but I feel as if 12x is starting to get to the point where this justification breaks down.

I've found myself shooting mostly at 6-8x for sight picture when I'm in the 350-500 range and I feel like 12x on the nx6 is starting to lose FOV while 400+ wind is coming into play?

It seems as if it may be subtle and/or personal preference though...

All that to say i'd be going NXS in your shoes.

 

[Tanner]

Not sure I’ve used a better killing scope than the NXS 2.5-10. Good size and weight, ultra durable, MOAR and MILR reticle are great, and for me the SFP wasn’t really a concern for hunting situations. For a compact sheep hunting rifle, it’s going to be hard to whoop that one.

 

[freezerfull]

Haven’t looked through any NX-6’s. But IMO the 2.5-10 NXS SPF is the best all around hunting scope. From wet dark timber and reprod to 800 yards across open country. It can do it all. Both MOA and MIL flavors are excellent SFP reticles that aren’t cluttered and standout in low light and cover.