[JTJ]

I like a fixed 2.5X or the lower power variables, 1.5X up to 6X. That gives you close range and longer range capability. The higher magnifications are good if you are doing precision paper punching. Some of the scopes meant for shotguns have very fast acquisition reticles combined with finer cross hairs for precision. Konus has a diamond reticle that is nice and Bushnell has a circle x that works well too. The reticle JonM recommended is a very good one.

[lehill66]

After a boatload of research the past few days, I upped my budget (this always seems to happen to me) and am pretty sure I'll be going with the Nikon M-223 2-8x32 BDC 600.

Nikon 2-8x32 Matte Nikoplex / BDC M-223 Riflescopes 8486 8487 FREE S&H 8486, 8487, NI-RS-M223-1-8487-KIT. Nikon M-223 Riflescopes, Nikon Riflescopes.

Seems to be exactly what I'm looking for...Not too long at 11". Low power at 2x with ability for 8x. The BDC seems like a good feature, esp since it's calibrated specifically for .223. All the reviews I've read on it have been amazing. No one really has anything bad to say about it. Only downfall is, with mounts it comes to $390....so I busted the budget by about $140. But...in the end I think it will be worth it.

If anyone's experienced this scope or has heard anything about it, please do share

[CHLChris]

I went with the Nikon 223 series, also. You missed the great Nikon sale, though, that they ran in May. If you bought any Nikon 223 scope, they were giving their Nikon mount ($99) away for free.

After finding an Optics Planet coupon code online, I bought my 1-4x with point blank reticle for $264 including an awesome mount. It is on its way as we speak via FedEx.

I think upping your budget will be a decision you will NOT regret! Even if you missed a better deal.

[lonyaeger]

Originally Posted by lehill66

After a boatload of research the past few days, I upped my budget (this always seems to happen to me) and am pretty sure I'll be going with the Nikon M-223 2-8x32 BDC 600.



If anyone's experienced this scope or has heard anything about it, please do share

I have one and like it alot. Based on your criteria, that's why I recommended it. Glad I could help!

[lehill66]

Ahh i didn't even know you recommended that Lon. I guess that was the post you deleted. Well, good to know though. I think I'll be happy w/ my decision! And I'll look around for some sales on it, maybe I'll get lucky. Thanks everyone for the advice and recommendations

[lonyaeger]

Originally Posted by lehill66

Ahh i didn't even know you recommended that Lon. I guess that was the post you deleted. Well, good to know though. I think I'll be happy w/ my decision! And I'll look around for some sales on it, maybe I'll get lucky. Thanks everyone for the advice and recommendations

Check The Sample List. Good prices on "pre-owned," demos, or reconditioned scopes, and really good service.

I think this is the one you've decided upon:

http://www.samplelist.com/Nikon-2-8x32-M223-Rifle-Scope-DEMO-A-P2471.aspx

I've bought several scopes from The Sample List and I'm very happy with them.

[cpttango30]

See Lon no need to delete posts. He ended up with what you posted the first time. Even after that nice long laundry list of scopes I gave him.

I don't think you will be unhappy with that Nikon.

[JTJ]

Sales, Specials, Closeouts - Save on Closeout Telescopes Binoculars Flashlights Riflescopes Microscopes

$20 off on orders of $150+ and 5% off on orders processed through Amazon.

[lehill66]

Just wanted to post an update to this thread as I've had my scope for a solid 8 months or so now. I went with the Nikon M-223 2-8x BDC 600. The scope is..well....AWESOME. Clarity is amazing in any type of light, or lack of. The eye relief is perfect for the AR platform. It holds its zero. The BDC feature is nice, but I found that I don't use it as much as I thought I would. The model with the Rapid Turrets, as opposed to the BDC, is probably a better option. But nonetheless, the BDC does work and I don't mind having it on there at all. It is all around just such a solid scope. Love it.

I started with the Nikon 223 scope mount specifically designed for this scope. But when I'm at the range, I like to switch it up between my scope and my iron sights a lot, just to get practice at both. Also, the scope doesn't fit in my case when mounted. So I ended up getting a Burris Quick Detach scope mount. That mount is rock solid and truly holds its zero when taking on and off.

All in, the scope was about $330 and the Burris mount $90, so $420ish. That's not a bad price for just a recreational shooter like myself. I definitely upped my budget but I will echo what EVERYONE says about scopes, do not cheap out.

Cheers