Returning Hunter Scope

[Wertherman]

Hi all,

I’m getting back into hunting after a break and could use some guidance.
After everyone was so helpful with my rifle situation earlier, I’m now looking for some recommendations on a scope for my Tikka.


I just moved to Colorado, I’ll be going on my first rifle elk hunt and mule deer hunts this year. I bought a Vortex Viper 2–10x42 two years ago for whitetail rifle, but after seeing some drop test results on Vortex optics, I’m hesitant to trust it in the high-stakes situations I’m headed into.

With that in mind, among the optics that have been drop tested, what would you recommend for a new hunter who has limited experience beyond 100 yards and has never dialed, and has never used MILs? Also, what would you do with the Viper? Keep it as a backup, sell it, or something else?

What rings does everyone use too?

Thanks,
Matt

 

[Kyguy]

I'd make sure that everything's torqued down the way it needs to be and take that sucker out and do some drop testing before I change anything else.

 

[Snowhunter11]

You can search drop tests.

Based on what you are saying a trijicon credo would probably suite you best. Sell the vortex and thank us later. Rings that work well warne mtn and UM rings.

If you are open to dialing and mils a few more options for sure!

 

[Wertherman]

You can search drop tests.

Based on what you are saying a trijicon credo would probably suite you best. Sell the vortex and thank us later. Rings that work well warne mtn and UM rings.

If you are open to dialing and mils a few more options for sure!

Definitely open to learning if that changes suggestions

 

[Dave Thomas]

Trijicon, nightforce or wait for the new shoot to hunt scope.

 

[jaredg]

what cartridge & what price?

 

[Wertherman]

what cartridge & what price?

I don't have a strict budget, but I think the highest I'd go is 1400 as I can get the maven at that price. I've seen one of those and I think its plenty good, but I don't know if I need that much scope. I'm shooting 30-06 until I am fully converted by the 6mm thread... I don't plan on shooting past 300 will be the maximum range for me barring perfect conditions this year and I don't see myself ever shooting past 400.

 

[jaredg]

I think you're on the right track. I don't know much about them except that they do make a scope in your price range that will pass the infamous drop test.

 

[thinhorn_AK]

Trijicon accupont 3-9

 

[Castle Rock]

Athlon Helos 2-12
If you don’t intentionally break it by throwing it on the ground it will do you well.