RE: simmons scope
I bought a Ruger 77 MK II rifle in 30-06 from a friend that was topped with a Simmons 44 Mag. That scope has served me well over the last five years and I have no complaints. Have been considering upgrading however for a bit more light gathering.
I have a Simmons 4X on my .22 and it has been deadly on squirrels. And I have a Simmons 2X prodiamond on my turkey gun (Mossberg 835 which gives that scope plenty of abuse) and absolutely love it.
I have read horror stories on this forum about how lousy Simmons scopes are---but so far I have had no complaints. I'm sure I could do better spending some more bucks---and when some of those bucks come my way---perhaps I will---but I am a happy camper right now.