Scoping a .223??

GaBowman · 03-30-2003, 08:56 PM

I am thinking about buying a .223 varmint rifle and wondered what you guys think would be an adequate scope for this rifle. Coyote hunting I would guess the shots to be 100 yards or less, but have also considered sniping crows out to 200-250 yds. I had thought about a 6-24 varible (or in that range) but was wondering if that would be an overkill. Using my .300 mag with a 3 X 9 scope for deer I hardly ever set the power of the scope less than 6 power and close shots arent that hard to find an animal in the scpoe. Many a time I wished for a more powerful scope for that rifle for the long shots but just passed on the shots because the animal seemed so small in the scope causing a real possibility of making a bad hit.

Also, from all of you .223 shooters, could you tell me what the bullet drop would be at 200/250 yards if you zeroed the rifle dead on at 25 yards using the lowest profile scope mounts possible? (I know that different bullet weights change this, but I am thinking of your favorite varmint loads, whatever they may be.) This would give me a better understanding of the real range of this gun.

Thanks,

GB

noway · 03-31-2003, 08:51 AM

3 x 12 sounds like what you are looking for in a scope. Don' t need more that that on a .223.
3 is good for those close in shots on coyotes.

Dead on at 25 yards will be 2 1/2 or 3" high at 100 yards. Should put you back on zero at 250 or 275 yards.

Best sight in for .223 IMO is 1" high at 100 yards. Then learn your hold overs at 200+. Most shots will be inside 200 at small targets. Too much sight over will cause lots of misses at short ranges.

James B · 03-31-2003, 01:56 PM

I put a 4x12 Busnell Banner on my 22-250. I love this combo to death and its the last rifle and scope I would ever sell. The 4 power has a pretty wide view for up close shooting and the 12 power seem to be plenty for long range prairie dogs and crows.

thndrchiken · 03-31-2003, 02:01 PM

I have an Elite 3200 5x15x50 on varmint rig. Can' t beat the optics for the price.

James B · 03-31-2003, 07:58 PM

I just put one of those 3200 Elites on layaway at Walmart I really liked the clear sharp picture. I think they are a good buy as well. It did however cost over twice as much as my Banner.