I'm low on money and saving up for my own firearms, and I was wondering if it would be acceptable to use a single scope for both a shotgun (Benelli Supernova) and a bolt-action rifle. I'm thinking a Leupold VX-I 2-7x so I could use the 2x power when it's on the slug gun and adjust to a higher power for longer-range rifle shooting.

I think you can get away with that.

I've been interested in this as well but I've heard that slug guns can "place a beating" on scopes. Anybody got any input on that?

Your idea can work although you will have to adjust the scope for POI when mounting it on the rifle and switching to shotgun. You will get good recoil with your shotgun so eye relief is important. Good luck...

Maybe try to get2 Nikon Pro Staff
2-7x32 and a 3-9x40
I understand the money tight situation and it will workbut I think you would be glad you spent the extra 50-75 bucks.
My opinion.

Yeah, I know I'll have to adjust the scope when I switch it between weapons but hopefully I'll be able to put a zero mark on the scope for each gun with some sort of removeable paint and when I switch I will just be able to dial it to that setting. Even if this doesn't work, though, it shouldn't take too long to zero it back in! Baleful Scout, I'll take a look at the Nikon scopes and see what I think about 'em.

Oh hey, those scopes cost less than the Leupold ones. I didn't look at these before. I guess you are saying to get one of each magnification range? The reviews for this scope on the Cabela's website are for the most part stellar, and the price looks nice. I'll look into getting one of these; thanks for the recommendation man!

I agree with Baleful Scout. Take a look at the Nikon Prostaff in 2x7 power. I bought one a couple of days ago for $130. Nothing wrong with interchanging scopes to different fireamrs, as long as you keep eye relief in mind.

I don't think putting marks on the turrets is going to help you much. Every time you switch the scope from gun to gun you will probably have to completely re-sight it because of small errors in the mounting. I few inches of torque difference in the mounting screws could throw it off.

If you do go this route try getting some quick detachable mounts and put a set on each gun. This should help limit the amount of errors when swapping scopes. I have a set of the Cabela's ones on my 17HMR and they seem to work fairly well.

I think it would be much easier to go with slightly cheaper scopes and get one for each gun.

As far as recoil, the leupold will handle anything you can dish out to it, or they will replace it. I have seen 50 dollar bushnells on slug guns though that held up fine. Not suggesting you go with something like that, but for the most part they work.

I would look to spend about $150 per scope for a simple 3-9x40 or something simular. This is plenty enough money to get you a good scope. Now if you are talking higher powered varmint type scopes I would spend more.

Paul

Pickerel,

I have the VXI 2-7 on a .243 and a VXI 2-7 on a 12 gauge and have had no problem with either. You certainly could do it, but I find mounting scopes to be a big pain, so would try to go with 2 scopes. I found the heavy reticle (sold as the VXI shotgun model) to be much easier on my eyes. I would at least try to get ahold of both versions to see what you like best if you go this route.

KEJ