Budget Scope Recommendation

[slinkylegs]

Alright, so I need a recommendation for a scope. However, I need it to do two things: be under $500, and it needs to fit my CZ 527. With the latter point, I would prefer it to be at least 12x power (varmint gun), and a one inch tube (which will help clear the bolt).

The Vortex Crossfire that came with it rubs on the bolt handle, so whatever the new scope will be has to have a smaller eyebox. I think it measured around 43-44mm. I know Burris Droptines and Fullfield 2's have a smaller eyepiece, as do some Leupold's... Both are 39mm I think. But I'm sure there are other options put there as well. Used older scopes would be fine if they are decent quality.

Alternatively, if someone knows of a good handle upgrade that gives more clearance, I'd go that route too.

Anyways, let me know what you recommend!

 

[mbatten]

Check the EE for a Leupold 12x @ $400.

 

[Redneck Hippy]

When I had a 527 American, I found a used Leupold vx1 4-12x44, just looked “proper” on that rifle to me. Can’t recall what ring height I had but no issues running the bolt

 

[DGY]

I was gonna say the EE is your best place, you will end up with a better scope for less money.

 

[legi0n]

Arken EPL4 4-16x44 (30mm tube though but rings are on sale too)
Italian (sponsor) sells them

 

[ponymusic]

Bushnell R5 6-18x50 SFP 1" Tube, Illuminated DOA-LRH800 Reticle. I found it to be a really good scope for the price tag.

 

[Jahnj0584]

I don't think a 1" tube helps you clear the bolt when it's the rear objective that's what usually interferes with the bolt throw....​

 

[bdb.hunting]

I doubt the 1” tube will help as scope clearance is more so related to scope height in relation to bolt throw. A smaller objective lens might as mentioned but it’s not typically something measured or used by most shooters.

You could get a pair of taller rings and that would solve your problem with the current scope.

Isn’t the vortex crossfire a 1” tube riflescope anyways? (I neither own or have owned one to be sure.)

B

 

[AB.boy]

When I had a 527 varmint I went to a Nikon Prostaff 5, as the ocular bell was slightly smaller than other scopes I tried. I used Tally rings. I also eventually bought a CZ factory modified bolt handle which made everything a lot easier. You could always check with a CZ warranty provider and see if they have any old stock bolt handles kicking around.

I also had a 527 carbine with Warne QD rings, it had a Vortex Viper 3-9 without any interference.

 

[slinkylegs]

When I had a 527 varmint I went to a Nikon Prostaff 5, as the ocular bell was slightly smaller than other scopes I tried. I used Tally rings. I also eventually bought a CZ factory modified bolt handle which made everything a lot easier. You could always check with a CZ warranty provider and see if they have any old stock bolt handles kicking around.

I also had a 527 carbine with Warne QD rings, it had a Vortex Viper 3-9 without any interference.

I didn't think about reaching out to CZ. Do you know what the contact info would be for that? Not sure if that goes through a Canadian or American spot.

I did find one aftermarket one, but it looks like the knob is enormous. It is at least threaded, so I could always look for a smaller one... But if there is a factory offering, I'd prefer that

 

[slinkylegs]

I doubt the 1” tube will help as scope clearance is more so related to scope height in relation to bolt throw. A smaller objective lens might as mentioned but it’s not typically something measured or used by most shooters.

You could get a pair of taller rings and that would solve your problem with the current scope.

Isn’t the vortex crossfire a 1” tube riflescope anyways? (I neither own or have owned one to be sure.)

B

The Crossfire is 1", but the eyepiece diameter of the scope was too big. When the bolt is thrown back, it rubs on it. This is with the CZ medium rings. Not interested in higher rings right now, as I won't get a good cheek weld then.

 

[slinkylegs]

I don't think a 1" tube helps you clear the bolt when it's the rear objective that's what usually interferes with the bolt throw....​

I suppose, I was just thinking that the 30mm tubes usually have a larger eyebox, and I think it would be unusual to find a 30mm with 12-16x that has an eyepiece diameter less than 40mm. I can find that in some 1" tubes

 

[bdb.hunting]

The Crossfire is 1", but the eyepiece diameter of the scope was too big. When the bolt is thrown back, it rubs on it. This is with the CZ medium rings. Not interested in higher rings right now, as I won't get a good cheek weld then.

Thanks for the added context! It’s not going to be easy by any means. I looked at some VX-Freedoms and they are right around 39mm and the VX-5HD was around 45/48.

I think you’re going to have to spend allot of time on Google looking at dimensions.

You could always pickup a cheer riser of some sorts. To accommodate higher rings and still get a cheek weld.

Is the few mm off the objective lens going to be enough? Might still bash a finger once in a while.

B

 

[AB.boy]

I believe SFRC is the current Canadian CZ warranty/service centre. You could check with them if they have, or can get, a modified bolt handle for you.

 

[Meroh]

First, you need slightly taller rings for your scope.

I like Riton scopes; I have been running one on my 6.5 x 55 for the past 8 or 9 years; 1 PRIMAL 4-16×44
Clear, repeatable and a decent price. This is my varmint rifle.

If I were doing it again, I would put the same one on that rifle as I do my Precission .22, a 1 Conquer 6-24×50. Two years on that one, and it is about perfect.

Both are 1" tubes.



Try some taller rings; if you have a bolt knob that will unscrew, I would suggest Glades Armories. The CZ455 above has a Glades bolt handle and extended knob. They have a big assortment of shapes.