Best mid range scope under $500
 

When I talk about mid-range I mean something like a 1-4x or 2-6x magnification or something like that.

I am building an AR, and am considering getting into 3 gun over the course of the next few years. I already have an FN SLP and a Sig 226, so even though I don't have a competition set up, I should have enough to at least enter a competition.

priorities from highest to lowest:

-holds zero well
-illuminated reticle
-ballistic reticle (mil-dots, preferably)
-durable
-lightweight

Anyway, I'm torn between the following options:

Bushnell 1-4x-24 PCL
http://www.bushnell.com/all-products...throw-down-pcl

PA 1-6x ACSS
http://www.primaryarms.com/Primary-A.../pa1-6xrbd.htm

Leatherwood Hi Lux CMR4
http://www.opticsplanet.com/leatherw...g-reticle.html

Counter Sniper 1-4x-24mm
http://www.opticsplanet.com/dark-ops...ve-doh323.html


I'm leaning towards the Counter Sniper, since it has a nice, albeit cluttered, illuminated ballistic reticle. It is the most expensive out of all of them, but I haven't seen too many reviews on them and was hoping someone here or their friend has one or has used one.

Thanks for the help guys.

IMO, it is really hard to beat the value of Bushnell's new PCL... I have one waiting to mount on an MR1 (being Cerakoted)... I've played with it, but haven't shot with it yet - based on pro reviews, I'm sure it will meet my expectations (based on price, I'm sure it will exceed)..

Vortex Viper PST 1-4x24 is another good consideration - I've been using one for a year or so (previously on AR, then on MR1 and now on AR again... one outing on 308 AR as well) and it holds zero, with no issues...

As you have probably read - Primary Arms offerings get very favorable reviews - and at their price point, it's hard to ignore.

The PCL and a good mount will come in under your target price.

I was just debating pretty much the same scenario for my new AR and I decided on the Bushnell AR-223 1-4X with the PCL from SWFA.

http://swfa.com/Bushnell-1-4x24-AR-O...it-P61988.aspx

I was debating between a few similar ones in this lower price point and the Bushnell had the best features for me at a good price. Have fun with whatever you choose.

I'm in the same situation as you. I like to get into 3Gun and have the basics (Sig P226 EE, M2 26", Colt 6920MG). Given I just spent a chunk of change upgrading the M2, it was nice to find a scope, PA's 1-6x ASCC, that covered CQB to 700yds that was on the very affordable side (less than $500).

Good luck w whatever you decide, but I'm pretty happy w the ASCC....I should note, I've only been to the range w the scope. My first 3Gun match will be in Nov. Hopefully my opinions won't change.

Thanks for the help guys. Since I don't have the funds now, it definitely seems like it will be a game time decision.



And seriously K, let me know how that goes. I'd like to know how the scope held up in competition. And good luck, btw.

If you take function into consideration the ACSS reticle is far more effective.

Dimitri

I'm real happy with my Vortex Viper PST 1-4 X 24 on a QD P.E.P.R. mount.

Illumination washes out in bright sunlight, but the reticle is still very useable without it.

+1 on PA optics

Burris MTAC

I say the Leupold MK AR 1.25 - 4x with firedot at $399 and Aero Ultralight mount for $85. For $500 you get a scope and mount for only 12oz combined. You can't beat that in terms of weight.

havent owned one, but have heard really good things about the vortex.

my burris tac30 was really nice, but eventually sold it to pick up another trijicon tr-24. if you can save up for a little more, i can highly recommend the trijicon.

I have the Bushnell PCL and its a really good scope for the money. I would recommend it.

For a bit more $, Leupold VXR Patrol looks up to the task.

vortex viper hands down for the money ....

This, but I am itching to try the new PA.

A friend just got the PA 1-6x. I haven't fired with it, but it looks great. It will be replacing my PA 1-4x.

Love your sig bro.

OK, so you aren't really asking for what the best scope is. So, what is your budget.

I don't think a mil-dot reticle is what you want. You want a reticle like the PA has. That's not mil-dot.

I also don't believe you want a scope that starts at 2x because it will not be the most effective at CQB. That doesn't fit the "best" category.