scope dilemma

[popcan]

For a long range hunting rig, say deer/moose out to 400 yds with a 300 WM...

What scope would you prefer, a 3.5 x 10, or a 4.5 x 14?

(Keeping in mind, a moose could wander out at 70 yards when you least expect it)

 

[bronco_mudder]

3.5-10x40 no question about it. If you can't hit deer sized game with that at 400 yards you shouldn't be shooting at that distance

 

[popcan]

3.5-10x40 no question about it. If you can't hit deer sized game with that at 400 yards you shouldn't be shooting at that distance

You already know I can hit that... but don't forget you still have "young" eyes!

 

[bronco_mudder]

I know you can hit that, I was just teasing you buddy. I do stand by my suggestion though. I think that 9 or 10x is plenty of power at 400 yards on big game. I don't have anything higher power than that on my big game rifles, but as you pointed out, my eyes are still "young" so to speak

 

[Icon]

I would also say 9 or 10x should be enough. Higher than that would be for the smaller critters. If you need more magnification, I would suggest higher mag binos.

 

['Boo]

3-9 x 40 is all I have ever needed and I do shoot out to past 400 yards.

The most important thing is to use QUALITY glass. A cheap Fitco or Tasco will never be a good 400 yard scope regardless how young your eyes are.

 

[Eagleye]

These eyes are far from young, and most of my big game rifles wear that excellent 6x42 Leupold. Is it good enough for long range? Depends what you need to hit, but a mule deer last fall on the far side of 500 yards got whacked with a 270 wearing that 6x42. One shot, double lung hit, dead muley. If you feel you need more power, the 3.5-10 is plenty. Regards, Eagleye

 

[thumper1]

I took my muley at 529 meters with a 3-9x40 so I'd have to say 3.5-10 would be a great scope to stick with!

 

[todbartell]

3.5-10 would get my vote. Heck Id use a fixed 6x too like I did on a coyote @ 330 yards last year

 

[Dogleg]

I've got a few 4.5-14s with side focus, and a pile of 3.5-10s. If you like small targets a long ways off, endlessly working up loads and playing at the range while fiddling with things get the 4.5-14. If you want to mount it and forget it and just go hunting get the 3.5-10 and never look back. I'm betting that the second one will suit your stated use better.

 

[popcan]

Votes are all in....

10x it is