Scope recommendation

[phillietimothy]

Fellas,

Hello gentleman. I have decided on a Savage FLNS in .223 as my first centerfire rifle. It will primarily be used at the range(100 yards). Ultimately I would like to become proficient out to 300 yards or more. The rifle will cost approximately $600. I was wondering about a scope; I don't currently hunt, but I would like this to be an all purpose rifle within the limitations of the .223 cartridge. I'm thinking variable power scope in keeping with the all purpose theme. I've heard great things about the Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x40. The scope is approximately $300, I don't think the 40mm objective will overwhelm the scope. I do not know whether the rifle comes with bases or not. Is this an easy rifle to scope? Please advise relative to bases, rings, etc. I appreciate having this resource to turn to. Thanks in advance.

Tim

[ByAnyMeans]

Savage is easy to scope so their should be no problems with that (great rifle as well). I have heard good things about Nikon Buckmasters and should serve you fine out to three hundred yards. Personally my preference within five hundred is a 2-7 or 3-9 since it allows for the longer range shots while still having low magnification for up close work. Depending on the area you hunt you may want to consider this.

[tdyoung58]

Nikon BBC 223, think it's in the $500/550 range

[dk99358]

3-9, 4.5-14, 3.5-10, 4-12, anything in that range will work just fine.

I seem to have settled in on Burris Signature Zee rings and Weaver style bases. The Signature line has inserts that keep the rings from marking the scope. You can also get offset/eccentric inserts if you run out of internal adjustment in the scope.

Dale

[TheSaint]

It will primarily be used at the range(100 yards). Ultimately I would like to become proficient out to 300 yards or more.

The boys over at Charlie6.org are putting scopes like the DMS-1 which meets our criteria exactly. You can read their thread at: http://charlie6.org/c6forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=172

They even mention the place they bought it from. These boys are pretty sharp and are mounting 'em on gas op rodded pieces. I'd check the article out there, I can't do it justice ... no sense in re-inventing the wheel.

[aubie515]

OP, you don't want a DMS on a bolt action.

Your choice of the Nikon Buckmaster is a fine choice...I've had a few of them and they work well.

[Rainier42]

The WOTAC 4-14x50: http://www.sightwonders.com/wotac.html

Have one on my Savage 10PC in .223 and it's great.

[jeff60]

Buckmaster 4.5 - 14x40 is a good scope for your use. You could save a little money on a 3-9, however either will work.

[thomae]

Phillietimothy:

My opinion, based on personal experience, is that here in PA, especially if you are in the woods, you will want something with a lower power (i.e. 3 x 9 ) because in the woods you will be hard pressed to find shots over 100 yards and one is more likely to miss because the scope is set on too high a setting than because one can't make out the target because the scope is too low power.

Nikon Buckmasters are fine, Bushnell Banner Dusk to dawn are also good low priced scopes for what you want.

Best of luck.