SmallCaliberCentral

I can't seem to make up my mind on a scope for my Les Baer AR in.223. (Don't worry, A 204 upper is on the top of my looong want list.) I did look at the 8.5-25x50 Leupold Mark 4. I really like the Tactical Milling Reticle on the M4. BUT, For a few more $$$ ,I could get a NightForce NXS. I really didn't want to spend that much I did not get to see Nikon's tactical selection in person. Anybody have one??? One thing I do know is I want side focus, Some kind of milling reticle, 20-25 max power, and all black. Anybody have any suggestions

Mike:
I'm not into black rifles any more, having had my fill long ago, but still think they are very cool now, especially all the neat variants out today. That said, I'd opine that if you don't want to spend the NXS bucks, but want a variable (which rules out the Leu MK-4 line), I'd consider their tacticals with the milling reticles as you mentioned.

Our SOCOM, USMC, Army Spec Ops, SEALS, all use both the NF and Leupold tacticals, and that should tell you about the short list. You can spend alot less, and as a result, GET a lot less. If you only intend yours for fox and Ole Wiley, you really don't need a 25X scope, and would be well served with a 4.5-14X, and save some weight and bulk in the process.

If PD's or squirrels are on the list of victims, well then, you'll have to pony up for more power and spend more. There is also Leupold's new line of MK-2 scopes out now; have you checked them out yet? They are also intended for both bolt sniper guns and the M16/AR15 platform.

I think I have to bite the bullet and get a 8.5-25x50 Mark 4 LR/T. I plan on using this rifle in our clubs 300 yard belly match. I don't know about you guys ,but when it comes to scopes, I like "POWER" UGH UGH UGH. I'm not a fan of the running shot on game so 8.5 -25 should do just fine. Besides ,I have my 204 Predator with a 3-9 for them yotes

Just a thought.....but maybe test drive a used one...

http://www.samplelist.com/default.aspx? ... sold=False

Just to offer a couple of other suggestions that won't break the bank and still provide great warranty service in case a problem should ever arise, Give a look at Sightron and Vortex.

Both in the $500 range and offer great clarity and brightness.

I have a 4-16x Sightron Mil-Dot on my .204 AR and love it. I had a chance to inspect the Vortex at the NRA meeting and was very impressed with them as well. I think they both offer a decent selection of reticles.

http://www.vortexoptics.com/riflescopes ... Igod2E_IxA

http://www.sightron.com/index.php?actio ... 1044399343