RE: blown scope, lead sled to blame?
You are exactly right Chap. And I see no problem with using the lead sled. But using it properly - like you are, with only about 20 lb of weight.
That TV commercial is misleading using 100 lb of weight and shooting a 416 RM.
Using too much weight and using a firearm with some 'kick' is going to result in equipment failure sooner or later.