Hi there, I just want opinions on which optic would be best suited for a Ruger American Ranch. I am thinking about waiting for an optic that starts a 2x or 2.5x but I am not sure if that would be a significant difference. Both optics are on sale at the moment.
Burris® Fullfield IV - 3-12x42mm with a E3 Reticle - $300
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 3-9x40 with a VMR-1 Reticle - $200
Thanks
Both of the scopes mentioned are OK, but if you can visit the store to look through the scope you decide to purchase, I would opt for the unit that can be adjusted to keep both the reticle and image in sharp focus.
One of the reasons these scopes are priced the way they are is "depth of field focus," labor, and materials costs.
Very likely, the lenses in the Burris scopes are made in China, Korea, or? Even more likely, both scopes get their lenses from the same manufacturer.
That means your biggest worry for quality will be the adjustment components, alignment of the lenses, and scope body tubes, which will have an effect on parallax at ranges preceding and exceeding its best focus setting, for image/reticle clarity.
The other issue will be how much of the visible image is sharp and clear. Most low end scopes will be sharp and clear in about 70% of the visible image, deteriorating around the outside edges.
This can be difficult to detect in a small store where they don't have samples or won't sell you the scope they looked through.
Sadly, just because you can focus the store demo sample sharply, doesn't mean the scope in the box, they give you, will do the same.
If you can possibly afford it, opt for a higher end model.
One thing to know about scopes, they are easily removed when you sell the rifle and can be put onto the next rifle without losing quality or value to you personally.
The higher quality the scope is, the longer you will be satisfied with it, and won't be eager to change it out, or spend more when upgrading the rifle.
