Scope for a Muzzle Loader

statjunk · 03-08-2005, 02:18 PM

I am looking for a scope for a Muzzle loader, it is a disc rifle if that matters. I want to spend the least amount of money possible. I won't be using it all that often so I am looking for dirt cheap.

What do you guys think of those cheap scopes that they sell at bass pro that come in the plastic bubble for $40?

Thanks
Tom

vc1111 · 03-08-2005, 07:29 PM

Here's a good rule of thumb:

Figure out which scope is the best one you can afford. Then buy the next (better) one up from there.

A good scope is a joy to use.

handloader1 · 03-09-2005, 12:23 AM

Save a couple hundred dollars, and go with a Burris 3-9x40 Fullfield II. Good luck.

statjunk · 03-09-2005, 07:00 AM

Ok let me make the question more simple. Do muzzle loaders require top grade optics? Sort of how magnum rifles require top grade optics because of the recoil.

I want to spend under $100 for the scope. I won't be using it very often and I don't want to spend a lot.

Thanks
Tom

03-09-2005, 07:05 AM

I had a pine ridge on one for while. But it wouldn't hold POI for somereason. After shooting and getting zero'd, I would clean with boiling hot water, and all that cleaning knocked it out. I now got a Leupold Vari X III 1.5-5 and never have problems.

If your shots are under 75 yards and you don't care about 2MOA changes, go with the cheapy Pine ridges.

Rebel Hog · 03-09-2005, 08:48 AM

Bass Pro.....shotgun/muzzle loader scope......3-9x40-matte......$79.99

skeeter 7MM · 03-09-2005, 08:54 AM

Well I believe in outfitting my hunting rifles and MLs with as much optics as i can reasonably afford b/c hunting is my passion and even if it sees limited duty I want to know I can depend on my optics. I understand the need to justify so if you only have a set amount I would do either of the following;
A) buy a fixed power scope - as cheaper price will get you more in the new market and less to go wrong. You could also look for a good quality used fixed to fit into your budget as they don't bring the $$'s in todays market.
B) Detachable rings/bases and switch out scopes from one of your other scopes (if of decent optical quality). Yes it requires a bit of sighting in and playing but IMO would be a better option than a cheap scope that may or may not perform/hold zero.

Of the cheaper variables I have heard some good on the Bushnell Banner from ML shooters but personally have never owned or evaluated one so this is strictly hersay. I personally have used a number of Elites on my ML's with no problems, so would consider a scope in this caliber/range if your considering a good value/decent optical return in a variable scope.

Rebel Hog · 03-09-2005, 09:53 AM

Quote:

ORIGINAL: skeeter 7MM

Well I believe in outfitting my hunting rifles and MLs with as much optics as i can reasonably afford b/c hunting is my passion and even if it sees limited duty I want to know I can depend on my optics. I understand the need to justify so if you only have a set amount I would do either of the following;
A) buy a fixed power scope - as cheaper price will get you more in the new market and less to go wrong. You could also look for a good quality used fixed to fit into your budget as they don't bring the $$'s in todays market.
B) Detachable rings/bases and switch out scopes from one of your other scopes (if of decent optical quality). Yes it requires a bit of sighting in and playing but IMO would be a better option than a cheap scope that may or may not perform/hold zero.

Of the cheaper variables I have heard some good on the Bushnell Banner from ML shooters but personally have never owned or evaluated one so this is strictly hersay. I personally have used a number of Elites on my ML's with no problems, so would consider a scope in this caliber/range if your considering a good value/decent optical return in a variable scope.

Skeeter.....My toughts as well, but the Poster was asking.....dirt cheap and under $100
My rifle's are equipted with Zeiss scopes.

Superpig · 03-10-2005, 10:39 AM

Look on ebay and you may find a midpriced decent scope for $100. You get what you pay for and most muzzleloaders have enough recoil they can destroy a cheapie. You may get lucky and buy a cheapie and it last forever or you may have a failure such as fogging when you arrive for a morning hunt. Look to Bushnell for a scope in the 69-99 dollar range if you go the cheap way.

WriterBob · 03-10-2005, 11:33 AM

I'm not sure they would hold up on a muzzle loader. The recoil process of a muzzleloader can be very hard on scopes.
I have a disc elite and have it topped with a 3x9 Bushnell elite. A lower power such as a four power fixed would work well too. But if you are serious about your hunting and don't want to blow that shot of a lifetime go with a quality scope.
The general rule of comparison is that the scope equal about as much $$ as your gun. I know that sounds high, but what you see is what you get and the scope does that important function for you.
If you are young and have good eyes before buying a cheapie go with quality open sights before getting a scope that is going to let you down.
Just my two cents/ and experience