Scope question?

RedRiverHntr · 10-26-2004, 05:41 PM

Would a 3x12 be overkill for elk hunting with a 338UM? I was thinking that with a gun capable of shooting further than my '06, which I have a 3x9 on, that I would want a scope that would reach out and touch them too. The gun came with a Cabela's Alaskan Guide Model on it, 3x12 with a 52mm obj. Scope is okay but the eye relief makes me feel like if I was to pucker my lips I could kiss the action!!!!

ELKampMaster · 10-26-2004, 05:57 PM

IMHO, there is nothing wrong with a 3x12 for elk hunting. I have a Lupy 4x12 on my 375 H&H.

The rifle sounds "short" for you. Your mentioning being able to almost smooch the action (along with eye relief considerations) are all part of the "having some one who knows bigger bores" get the rig set up for you. We are NOT necessarily talking expensive stuff here, but it is stuff one can tend to "get away with" on rifles chambered for lesser cartridges, whereas with "friskier" rifles it can sneak up on ya.

EKM

RedRiverHntr · 10-26-2004, 06:22 PM

Actually, the stock and gun fit nicely. I was referring to the fact that in order to look through the scope properly, I had to move my head much further toward the scope than is my custom. The Cabelas scope has a couple inches less eye relief than my Leupold. That is my reason for a different scope. But I do like the extra magnification!!!

AlaskaMagnum · 10-26-2004, 10:01 PM

I would be real careful about moving your head real close to your scope on a .338 RUM. Ask me how I know this.......

handloader1 · 10-27-2004, 12:06 AM

Eye relief on that scope is 3.1". I have a .340 Wby. Mag. with a Pentax Lightseeker II 4x-16x-44 with a 3.5"-4.0" eye relief, and I haven't been hit yet. If at all possible, use all 3.1" to your advantage. Good luck.