Scope Power

If your talking 200 yards 10x on the top is more than adequate (some may feel this is to high, but I prefer dialing them in close once I've got the coyote in my scope, and of course you have the option to dial up anywhere comfortable under 10). I would also prefer 2.5 to 3 on the bottom for closer shots and faster target acquisition. If mounting on a larger rifle (varmint, tactical, etc) I would get a 30mm tube. A 22-250 is good to 300 yards and at that range I would prefer 12 on top.
 
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When selecting the correct power scope you first need to start by asking how will the scope be used, what distances will it be used at, does the hunt involve stalking or hunting from a fixed position. If the answer is that we plan to stalk game it gets really tough to hand hold a scope over 6x and scopes that are 1x or 2x on the low end will be significantly faster to acquire the target than a 3x it doesn't sound like a lot when you talk 2x vx 3x but it can make or break getting on target fast particularly under 100 yds. There is a reason African Double Rifles had express sights not scopes for hunting dangerous game, animals are surprisingly fast moving. A guy who is in a tree stand, blind or hid out overlooking a field can often get a lot of enjoyment by having a high power scope 16x or more. The reality of high power scopes is that it does not take 16x magnification to put the bullet on target but it can be very useful in identifying and selecting which of several possible targets you want to shoot. Type of reticle can often make as much difference as the selection of power. Case in point I have a Trijicon 1-4x Accupoint with a red illuminated post and a 3x Trijicon Compact ACOG both of which will allow very accurate work at 200 to 300 yds which is about ideal for .223 However if I were shooting further I would be stepping up to a heavier caliber with a higher magnification scope and a more solid rest would be needed. People tend to put more magnification onto a rifle than what they really need. Find a dealer where you can get a look at the models you are interested in then price shop for your best deal once you know what you want. If you do not have the correct tools pay a gunsmith to mount the scope. Some of the mildot based reticle scopes with adjustments in 1/10 mil can be very useful for not only determining distance to a known size target but the marks can be used for hold over at known distances by running a balistic table with drop shown in mil http://www.jbmballistics.com/ballistics/calculators/calculators.shtml
 
I find myself using my Aimpoint Pro more than anything lately, up to 250-300yds Im good. If Im going to be in open country I'll use another scoped AR but rarely use anything over 4-6X power. The Aimpoint Pro and Trijicon ACOG's work best for my needs and hunting.
 
To me, I run a 4-12x40 on my 223 and have used a 4.5-14x40 on my 22-250 in the past. They are usually maxed out on power when calling too. I've never really found it to be a hindrance even on the really close range coyotes that pop up on you. I dropped a coyote at 40 yards on 12 power a couple months ago. For people who have a tough time finding their target in the scope right away, I'd definitely recommend dialing the magnification down though. I've never had trouble finding coyotes in my scope the second I shoulder my gun. For shots 200 yards or less, I'd recommend a good 3-9 or 4-12. That way you have the ability to crank up the magnification if you want.

I also find myself shooting targets regularly and the higher magnification is nice to be able to pick my spots a little better.
 
My favorite is a 2.5-10 zoom range. Ive got the Vortex PST 2.5-10x44. Nice and compact with very clear glass, gathers light well at dusk and dawn. Ive shot out to 800 yards with it on 1.5 MOA targets.
I think they are discontinuing them for the GEN II optics [beeep].

http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-viper-pst-2-5-10x44-riflescope-with-ebr-1-moa-reticle


Im waiting to find one of these to try out on the .22-250 bolt action im working on. Slowly replacing all my Second focal plane scopes to first focal planes, well worth the extra monies.
http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vort...reticle/reticle
 
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Most of my hunting/shooting is Predator Calling based these days.

I use variables on all my scoped guns.

3X-18X, 9.5lb 6mm
2X-12X 6lb .204 AI
2X-10X 6lb .223 AR
1X-4X 9.5lb 12ga.

I like it when I get the chance to dial up to the higher powers cause I love to take a good close look.....
....... however, most shots are taken with the scope set on it's lowest power.

I.E. 3X at 40 yards.
 


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