Optic choice on new build

[M1SF1T]

I'm about to move on a new 7mm PRC build which will do duty as both a mountain rifle and shooting steel in the hills. I have my rifle picked, I am conflicted on the optic.

My current rifle is a T3X Superlite "Western Hunter" 6.5 CM, Leica Amplus 6 2.5-15x50. I use it backpack deer hunting in BC and shooting steel out to around 400m, not competition, just for training and fun.

I'll continue to use the Tikka for coast blacktail hunts and actually plan to move it into a McMillan stock that will be similar to the new build stock.

The 7mm PRC will be same purpose, except for targeting larger animals than deer and possibly longer range, eventual sheep hunt. I want to start working to shoot steel out to ~1000m.

I want an FFP optic but I'm not sure on direction. For hunting I don't see wanting more than 18x. But for steel @ 1000m I'm thinking I might want 25x. I'm also considering I could switch my Leica from my current rifle if I wanted lighter for hunting, although that might get old...

Anyway, I'm pretty split right now between Kahles 318i and Zeiss S3 4-25. Zeiss actually has a great FOV, better than the Kahles at similar magnifications. Heavier by ¼# and it seems somewhat bulkier optic though.

Any considerations? Would I be disappointed going this direction? The rifle is 6#6oz + optic&mount. Would a +30oz optic be heavy here?

Alternative if I need to do lighter FFP is something like a Mark 5 I guess, although I'm not crazy on Leupold... illuminated reticle is a must.

Appreciate any suggestions or experience here.

 

[Bubblehide]

You are going to be directed to the scope testing thread in the long range hunting subforum here on Rokslide.

 

[M1SF1T]

Thanks for your input.

 

[LightFoot]

The Trijicon 3-18x44 will give you similar performance to the Leica, has FFP & illumination, and passed the “drop test.”

Alternatively, the NX8s are a good option.

The Kahles is overpriced in my opinion, but they do make a quality optic. Zeiss is goo, too.

Ergonomics of the rifle will matter with respect to a 30oz optic and how it balances on the rifle. For a light setup, under 30 is preferable but on a magnum, a little extra weight may be a good thing.

What rifle are you getting?


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