Kpatte

Take a look about 5 threads below this one for comments about sighting systems. I have copied and pasted my post in that thread below.

I went from open sights to a low-power scope on my 835. I usedthe Tru-glo fiber optic sights for one season but got rid of them (personal preference) because I felt they were too big and obscured too much of the target. I also (personal opinion) didn't think much of their construction. They seemed (again, personal opinion) flimsy and cheap. My father had an identical sight and the rear sight broke and came off the third time out (and I know it was mounted correctly because Imountedit).

If I desired to stick with open sights I would use a good set of Williams sights. They are steel, more durable, and mount more securely.

My low power scope is a Bushnell Trophy 1.75 X 4 mounted in a set of Traditions rings and Leupold bases. It is a decent scope, nothing special. It has performed perfectly intwo seasons of use (6 turkeys, several shots to get it sighted in). I added the Butler Creek flip off scope covers. Total cost wasapprox $140.00 - 160.00. The scope was on special at BSP I got the bases and rings off ebay.

I would strongly advice you to avoid "see through" mounts if you go with a scope. These mounts place you head in the wrong position (way too high) off the gun stock. Go with one sighting system and stick with it would be my advice. Personably, I think agoodscope mounted correctly in good mounts is far more durable than cheap open sights, which catch every limb and vine as you walk through the woods. In 30+ years of deer hunting with scoped rifles I've never once had an issue with a scope.

From the other thread:
I eventually went with a low power scope, Bushnell Trophy 1.75 X 4 with the circle X reticle. This isn't an expensive scope but it has held up fine thus far. I would have prefered a Nikon Monarch or Leupold but didn't have the Jack at the time to buy one.

After two complete seasons of use I have really enjoyed the scope. I leave it on 1.75 or 2 X, but it is nice to be able to dial it up to 4X occasionally to look at a turkey if I don't want to drop the gun and grab the binos. One needs to be careful not to underestimate the range even at the lowest settings, as the bird will appear closer than he is. Since I am left eye dominant that isn't a problem for me because I have to shut my left eye anyway to look through the scope. I simply open my left eye and slowly move my head slightly to the left to see the turkey with both eyes and range him.

The scope works in any light during hunting situations. Turkeys are called and shot after it gets plenty bright enough to see and they fly up to roost well before dark.

I don't have to worry about batteries running out of power or electrical gizmo malfunctions.

Using the butler creek snap open scope covers the glass stays dry, clearand free of mud.

A goodscope with quality mounts seems more durable to me than the red dots that I handled. That is a subjective observation on my part.