Hunting optics, What do you use?

[Slimfinn]

Specificly for hunting, What do you have? What do you like, what have you learned? What do you ultimately use?
I think this evolves with everyone and depends on hunting style, location, and game, I know it has for me.
I will start by where and what I hunt, most all of my hunting is in Montana and it ranges from whitetails in a brushy creek bottom to open pasture/fields, antelope in the open prairie, mule deer and elk in the foothills and mountains, and some great asperations for big horn sheep and mountain goats
Rifle scopes- range's from 2-8, 3-10, 4-12, 5-15. I like them all but what I have learned is to know the one you are using, keep the power turned down until you need it, sometimes simple is better, the first time I hunted using one that had a BDC type reticle I found myself overthinking and missed the shot. You know growing up 3-9 was the standard and don't really find myself wishing I had more when I am using the 10 or 12 power, currently use the BDC type haven't yet but think I am going to get one and try turning turrets.
Binos- 8x30, 10x30, 10x42, 15x56. what I've learned is that good glass is worth it and get the best that you can afford. I use my 10x42's more than any and think they are the best all around.
Range finders, yup its an optic- I have an old bushnell 400 or 800 from when they first came out still laying around somewhere, but now use one of the smaller compact ones, nothing fancy, I cant even tell you off hand what diststance it is rated for but will range further than I am willing to shoot at something. I think this is a must if you are using a BDC or turning turrets or you're just pissing in the wind.
Spotting scope- 20-60x80, 17-40x56, I'm pretty new to using a spotter gettting my first only a few years ago and just really used from the truck, but just picked up the compact one, I like it so far just havent packed it into the field yet, jury is still out will let you know what I think after this year.

Did I miss anything?

 

[DrMike]

You covered it pretty well, Slimfinn. I don't need a lot of magnification, but I do need clarity. To be sure, mosrt of my scopes and binos are from European manufacturers. I've been fortunate in being able to acquire quality glass. Early on, I learned that if you can't see what you are shooting at, you won't hit it. Thus, I opted to buy the best optical equipment I would afford. I began with what I could afford and worked my way up. I have rifle scopes with dials, etc., but I seldom use them, opting instead to get closer. I'm comfortable shooting at a distance, but I recognise that my accuracy is more assured the closer I get. I have had multiple range finders, and have instruments made by Zeiss and Leica at the present. With my current optics, I am watching and clearly identifying game thirty minutes before some of my older optics allowed me to see clearly enough to identify what was there. The money spent on quality optics was to purchase an extra few critical minutes at first light and at last light. I deemed that an acceptable expense.

 

[JD338]

I'm a fan of the Leupold VX-5HD and VX-6HD series of rifle scopes. I also have a 12-40x60mm Golden Ring spotting scope and 3 or 4 LRFs. I do have a Swarovski LRF but the Leupold are smaller and easier to carry.
I have a pair of Meopta 10x42mm binoculars that are on par with Swarovski but half the price.

JD338

 

[jimbires]

on my normal hunting rifles I have a few Leupold VX3 , 4.5-14 with the Boone and Crocket reticle . I have Leupold VX6 , 2-12 with the Boone and Crocket reticle . I have a Steiner 3-15 with the S1 reticle this is also a drop reticle for longer shots . my long range rifles, that I dial , use nightforce .

Binos , I use 10x42 vortex razor HD , when I talk myself into carrying them . I have Leupold 10x50 , these are a little on the heavy side . I recently bought Zeiss 10x42 for truck and side by side binos . I don't know why I seldom use them .

rangefinders , right now I use a Sig 2400 ABS . I've had many and kept out growing them . I use a, small in size , Nikon 1000 for archery hunting .

spotting scope , I use a swarovski 20-60x80 HD . I first bought a nice Bushnell , the Swaro is definitely better .

my advice is to buy the best you can afford to start with . if you buy good enough , chances are you will be upgrading . upgrading costs more in the long run .

on the shelf I have two Zeiss conquest 3-9 rifle scopes . they have the #20 Z plex reticle . I truly believe a guy could do 99% of his hunting with this scope . if these had a rapid Z drop reticle , they would most likely be in use . I feel like I'm cheating myself without a drop reticle .

 

[IdahoCTD]

For the ranges I prefer to shoot game, under 650ys, I like 3x18 scopes a lot, like the VX6 Leupold, but the NX8 4x32 works well too. The reason why is I prefer to shoot reticles rather than dial the scope. Its faster and you dont have to worry if you re-zeroed your scope. The reason I like the 3x18 range is they are easier to quickly aquire targets at max power, where the reticles are correct in SFP scopes. The NX8 4x32 has dual reticles for 16x and 32x. So at 16x you can use the 16x side of the reticle for dope. If you have all the time in the world then more power is nice but often I have to get on something quick and make a shot. Aim small miss small is real and more power allows you aim smaller but everything has to work for how you hunt and shoot.

I run Leica HD-B 10-42 rangefinding binoculars. The best advise I ever received early on was spend as much as humanly possible on binoculars because you wont regret it if you use them a lot. I use to hunt rockchucks a lot and a cheap pair of binocs feels like someone is trying to rip your eyes out after spending 6 hours straight behind them. Good binocs dont do that.

 

[Bruce Mc]

I don't think I could hit much past 350-400 yds so all my scopes are medium power like 2'7s, 3-9s, 2.5-8, 6xs, and a 3.5-10. All Leupolds of varying generation. I do have 4-12s, and a 6-18 on my varmint rifles.

 

[Guy Miner]

Good subject, and I agree with folks here that quality optics are important.

Binos - I use Zeiss 10x42's. Excellent resolution, not that great in low light. I handed them to a birdwatcher friend of mine while hiking one day and she was blown away by the clarity. I think she was going to go out and buy a nicer pair of binos because of that.

Rangefinder - had a Swaro and loved it. Finally after quite a few years the electronics failed and Swaro wouldn't fix it so... I tossed it and replaced it with an inexpensive Vortex. It works fine but isn't optimal. Got a chance recently to try some Leupold range-finding binoculars and they seem to be outstanding!

Rifle scopes - for the past 20 years or so most of my hunting has been done with a pair of fixed 6x Leupold scopes, one has a 36mm objective, the other a 42mm objective. Simple, robust, clear. Sad that they're not made anymore. I have 2.5x Leupold scopes on my 45-70 and 22 rimfire Marlin lever actions, an old 3x Leupold on my 30-30 Glenfield - the "Mag Light" scope!

My Ruger Number One rifles use variable scopes because they are longer on the eyepiece end, and the Rugers work out better for me with a scope that comes back towards me a bit. Otherwise I'm crawling the stock big time to use the scope. The 375 has a 1.5-5x and the 7mm Rem Mag has a 3.5-10x. Both work really well.

Ol' "Green Machine" has a fixed 6x SWFA SS scope on it these days. Simple, robust, clear, and an incredible bargain. I think 10x is the lowest magnification they offer in fixed power scopes these days.

Have a few more, but those are the most often used. Dad's old 30-06 Springfield still has the 2-7x Redfield "widefield" that I bought him in the 1970's. I think I'm leaving that rifle alone, just the way he and Grandpa set it up. I'll tag something with it one of these days.

Regards, Guy

 

[Blkram]

Like most, I started with the best optics I could afford at the time, and didn't take long to upgrade to better optics as I could afford them on new rifle acquisitions.

I hunt a wide variety of environment and terrain types, under a wide variety of lighting conditions, so glass that adapt to the changing conditions is a must. One day it may the thick, dark timber (moose and bear) where I need to have low enough power and a good field of view, to other days where it will be wide open prairie, tundra or alpine (antelope, bison, elk, sheep, and goat), where I need enough power and clarity to resolve fine details at good distances. My scope is always turned down to the lowest power setting (average shot distance over the past 38 years is just 132 yards), as there is usually more time to turn up the power if something presents itself at a further distance.

Binos: when I could afford good glass, I bought the Swarovski SLC 10x42. Great binos...still have and use for archery competitions where RF is not allowed. Have provided great service over the past 28 years!
RF Binos: Now have and use regularly, the Leica Geovid 10x42 HD-R 2700 for past 7 years. Great glass and RF! (Had an older version that I sold as they didn't fit my eyes well; these new ones are much better!) I was looking to get the Swarovski EL-Range 10x42 but found the Leica's on sale at a much better price (saved $1500!) Love having the RF in the binos!

Rifle Scopes: the majority of my scopes are Leupolds (VX-11, Freedom, VX-R, VX-3, 5HD and 6HD, and most with the B&C reticle. I love how quick this reticle is to use in the field. I am really liking the illuminated FireDot and B&C reticles I do have for low light conditions
I also have some European glass (Kahles, Swarovski, and S&B), and a couple of Trijicons. The tritium in the Trijicons is also nice to use in low light conditions. The Kahles have the TDS reticles, and again, quick to use in the field for longer BDC holds. While I can get the turrets for my Leupolds, I haven't as I don't yet feel the need to range, dial and shoot...due to the extra step.
I also prefer the SFP scopes. I now have a FFP scope (Burris Veracity) on my Bergara B-14 Trainer in 22LR to learn how to use one and try out the long distance shooting with the 22LR...having fun so far...but not a reticle I believe that I want on a hunting rifle. For target shooting, it is fine.
I am interested in the new Gen 2 VX-6HD 3-18x44 Illum. B&C and may have to pick one up...just need to determine which rifle it would go on! 7MM PRC most likely candidate

Spotting scope: I have used a Leupold 30x60 spotter for over 25 years, mostly on the range, but also for mountain hunting. Nice and light, compact, with clear glass, and rugged with its rubber armouring. I would like to get a spotteer with more power for mountain hunting, and it will be the Swarovski 20-60x65 version.

 

[filmjunkie4ever]

Leupold mostly. I do use some Weaver, Burris and Vortex optics as well though.

I have several fixed power scopes still in regular use but have mostly switched to variables. I only have one turret dial scope and that is on the .264 Win Mag but am considering getting another for my .220 Swift.

 

[Wolfshead]

I don’t have the arsenal that others on this site have. (Remember I’m from N.Y., so anything over one rifle is an arsenal!)
I have a Vortex 1.75-5 x 32 Diamondback on my Tikka T3x compact that I use for the close woods, and is basically my main hunting rifle.
I have a Luepold VX3i 3.5-10 x 40 on my Remington 700.
I have a pair of Vortex Diamondback HD 8x32s and a pair of 10x42 Diamondback HDs
And a Vortex Ranger 1800 range finder.
These work well for my purposes and my budget.
I’m happy with them.

 

[diverdown]

I have stuck with basically the lower power end of Riflescopes. A Zeiss 1.5X6 (clear as a bell) on my ,338RUM Elk Rifle. A 3X9 Kahles on my .300 Win Mag. A 2.5X8 Leupy on my 7X08. My longest shot at an Elk was 326 yards and the Zeiss at 6 power worked perfectly. A 1X4 Leupy firedot on my AR is also perfect for it's intended use. Binoculars are a pair of Leica 10X42's and a pair of Meopta 7X35's. The rangefinder is a separate unit and is a Leica which I've had forever and still works perfectly. I fell on it twice and it still functions so no complaints.

 

[xphunter]

Most of my rigs are set-up for cross-over uses...Hunting and shooting, with a good number being able to shoot distance.
Good glass and reliable turrets are key for me.
For steel, I am pretty comfortable with the max magnification being in the 14-16 range.
It kind of depends what I am trying to do, so many rigs have higher magnifications.
For hunting, I want a heavier reticle, and quality lit reticles, that have good adjustments are nice.

 

[RL338]

Where I hunt a good scope is all that is needed. In the woods the max would be 100yds and in the old pasture 200-300 yds max from my stand.
I tend to over power the optics on my rifles to serve as hunting and target in one.
No binos or spotting scopes needed in the short amount of time I get on game.
I do have my trusty old Leupold rangefinder.

 

[TackDriver284]

Most of the guy's responses are spot on, many of you like to hike over long terrain, so the lighter optics are best with good magnification for long distance shots as well as close up. As for me, I like to multi task,,,hunt, shoot steel, rifle competitions, and shoot long distances, so I stuck with NightForce ATACR's in 5-25 X 56mm and 7-35 x 56mm with thin illuminated reticles. My big game hunting rig, the 300 Win Mag sports a ATACR 5-25 x 56mm with the thick reticle. And yes, my scopes are on the heavy side which is one thing I regret. I have also used NXS and Leupolds. I rely on my kilo rangefinder and my Kestrel for long distance shots.

 

[Firebird24]

I do own a pair of Swarovski slc 10x40 but they came later in life after suffering with garbage for much too long.

I also have a couple Swarovski 3.5x18x44 scopes on rifles I use for longer range shooting. Love them!

But I realized at some point that leupold was most likely my price point and I have an assortment of them. I am a huge fan of custom turrets. My kids use them as well and shoot with them really well. I also do prefer more magnification in a scope for areas where point restrictions are in place-Wyoming for example where I often hunt four point or better only areas for deer.

I do own one dangerous game scope on my .375 but it has QR rings so I can put a plains game scope on it without much effort. I’ve used them both with no errors and very good results.

I live in the west and have always found it funny that several of my longest shots have been for whitetails in alfalfa and corn fields in the Midwest. The old 4.5x14 vx-3L scopes might be my favorites of all. Below is my 7 stw with swaro and .223 with vx-L

 

[longrangehunter]

I still use my Swarovski 7x42’s from 1991 when you get get them for $750.00!

Range finding Bono’s are Vectronix Vector X 10x42’s. Double duty and ver good quality product.

I still prefer a Mil-Dot reticle or BDC type for hunting. 3-12, 3.5-15, 4-16, 3-18 for magnification. Whatever you can ultimately afford. At this moment I really like the S&B Klassik hunting line for the most bang for your paycheck. They are FFP scopes, but with a heavier reticle that is usable throughout the power range of the scope. Super easy to get on target, bracket between the mil-dots easy to do for 1/2 mil or the in between .25 or .75 stuff.

I had to finish hiking up the mountain and forgot to add that I use Leica spotting scope 20 to 60 with a straight eye piece. Sometimes having an angled eye piece helps if you’re staring up a steep mountain all the time. I mainly use mine now when I’m working as a range officer at a shooting match. Having a straight eyepiece actually works better for the long hours sitting in a chair all day long, and allows you to “sight align over the top with the V Notched into the extended sunshade. Plus keeping an eye on what the shooter or shooters are doing, who’s doing what, and what direction there rifle is pointed. My left eye can be on them while seeing the target at the same time.

Oh, I’d never be apposed to using a variable power 10x scope either. I have an excellent 1.8-10x37 USO T-PAL with a GAP reticle that is also illuminated. Great glass!! Super clear, and I used to compete with it over a decade ago. No problem hitting targets out to a 1,000 yards either. It now on my Mil-Spec Remington 700 .223.

 

[6mm Remington]

On my personal stuff I have the following.
6x42mm Leupold on my Ruger 1B 6mm Remington. Love this scope!
4x Leupold on my Ruger 1B 30-06
4.5-14x42mm Leupold VX3 with B&C reticle on my Winchester Model 70 280AI. (Love the B&C reticle & scope!) My first variable ever!
2-7 Leupold rimfire scope on my CZ .22 LR bolt action rifle.
10x25 Leica Ultravid for my binoculars. Love these also.
15-30x50mm Leupold Gold Ring spotting scope. Love this spotting scope.
Leupold Range Finder. Had a Leica before this and was an idiot and sold it. The Leupold works pretty well though.

Off the top of my head my son has the following.
20x Leupold fixed spotting scope. I gave him my first spotting scope after I upgraded to the 15-30.
10x32mm Leica binoculars.
4.5-14x40mm Leupold scope with the B&C reticle on his Ruger MKII 6mm Remington
3-10x42mm Zeiss Conquest with 600 yard B&C type reticle on his 300 WSM

 

[Teknys]

Great Conversation going.
My two Sako 85 Finnlights ( 300WSM & 243W ) both carry Swarovski Z5 3x18, light wt ,mtn hunting rifles.

I have 3 Ridglines in med/long range cartridges that have a Zeiss V6 and two V4s. The 6.5x284 w/ the V6 is my most carried rifle last 6 years.

Various other rifles with VX3 and Vortex Razors and Vipers.

Binoculars- 99% of the time are Vortex Razor 10x40

I’m in the shopping mode for a Spotter - I’m without at the moment.

Been using Leica rangefinder for years now.

 

[TNBillyEarl]

I too am enjoying this thread. Thinking through the OP's question, in the past decade I have only taken one animal with my scope higher than the minimal setting. All my deer sans one have been taken on 2, 3, or 4 power. (I took one during muzzy season a few years back on 9x b/c I was trying to count tines - that lease has a 4-on-one-side requirement.) My scopes: I have a Bushnell Elite 2.5-10 from way back, a VX-2 2-7, a VX Freedom 1.5-4, and a VX3HD 2.5-8. Binos and range finder are entry level Leupold and Bushnell respectively. I don't dial, I memorize hold over - but I'm not sure why when I hunt locally. When in the Midwest I tape the holdover to my stock.

-B

 

[grry10]

I'm with Bruce on my shooting ranges, and keep most of my shoots hunting under 350 yards. When it comes to scopes I am not brand loyal. I have a mix of Leupold, Vortex, Zeiss, and Bushnell, but they are all variables (2.5-8, 2-10, 4-12, etc) and are equipped with some form of duplex reticle. The only only exceptions are a Vortex 6-24, with a Christmas Tree type of reticle mounted on a Cooper 6.5-284 that only gets used to punch paper and ring steel and a fixed power Weaver T36 with fine crosshair and dot that gets used on occasion during load development. Since most of my rifles are setup with picatinny rails, it makes it easy to swap it on and off.

My binoculars are a pair of 8x42 German made Steiner Merlin, that I have used for many years.