Optic options for long range shooting

Joined
Nov 4, 2021
Messages
24
Getting started in the long range shooting/hunting world and looking for input on optics to help me dial in my rifle. I would like to have a quality optic so my spotter can help me dial in my zero and help judge dial adjustments for long shots. Not looking to spend a small fortune but willing to lay down cash for something that makes sense and meets the need. The Athlon Ares G2 20-60x85mm currently has my attention.
 

drh2687

FNG
Joined
Oct 19, 2022
Messages
10
Without knowing your actual intended distances for your "long range", I'd offer this general advice:

Sacrifice magnification for glass quality if you have to in order to stay in your budget. You can get out to 1000 yrds with 10x mag for just shooting (hunting/PID requirements will likely be different), so a 20x scope and higher is may not be needed and can help your $ goals. And you'll find the clearer image to be more useful.
 

TraskI

Lil-Rokslider
Joined
Apr 22, 2017
Messages
106
If this is strictly for long range shooting I would consider the Longshot LR-3. No need for a spoter, no mirage issues, and instant feedback with your shot. Helps tremendously figuring out drop and how your doing with wind calls.

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OP
B
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Joined
Jan 26, 2017
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I think that athlon has a second focal plane reticle, which is really stupid because the reticle only works on one magnification. Leupold mark 4 is probably the top choice, or one of the bushnell spotters like the lmss2.
 

tntrker

WKR
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Aug 7, 2018
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743
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Upstate SC
I like my Nightforce NX8 4-32x50. At the range I reach out to 1,000yrds with my 300wm and have no problem seeing the target or the impact.
 
Joined
Oct 31, 2022
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Location
Northern Utah
I like my Nightforce NX8 4-32x50. At the range I reach out to 1,000yrds with my 300wm and have no problem seeing the target or the impact.
I've been a NF ATAC-R guy for a long time, and I'm thinking about selling once of my 5-25s, or a 7-35s to try the NX8 just to shave a little weight. I'm just not sure what I'll end up giving up optically. Have you had experience behind both by chance?
 

tntrker

WKR
Joined
Aug 7, 2018
Messages
743
Location
Upstate SC
I've been a NF ATAC-R guy for a long time, and I'm thinking about selling once of my 5-25s, or a 7-35s to try the NX8 just to shave a little weight. I'm just not sure what I'll end up giving up optically. Have you had experience behind both by chance?
I do not. The only reason I have the NF is because my Leupold VX-6HD 4-24x52 broke on the last shot of my last weekend before a moose hunt and I was scambling to get something. I like it better so the fixed VX-6HD sits in the safe..
 
Joined
Oct 31, 2022
Messages
16
Location
Northern Utah
I do not. The only reason I have the NF is because my Leupold VX-6HD 4-24x52 broke on the last shot of my last weekend before a moose hunt and I was scambling to get something. I like it better so the fixed VX-6HD sits in the safe..
Thanks for response, sorry to hear about your Leupold. I will say my ATAC-Rs have been bomb proof, I'm lucky to say I've never had a failure.
 
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