Hey guys looking into a rifle optic for my new ruger american predator gen ll chambered in 6.5 creedmore. I know nothing about optics just know I’m trying to stay under 400$ for my first “hunting beginner “ rifle. Been trying to do some research online. Did some deer hunting this past deer season for the first time and never got a chance to try out my old scope and rifle in the wild. Looking into targeting deer, coyote, and some hogs if I can ever locate them. Have seen a couple vortex but not sure if this one is a good route to go. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44. Or something like this Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope. All help is greatly appreciated open to all suggestions. Thanks in advance.

vortex diiamondback tacticals suk! look at an Arken optics 4x16
https://www.arkenopticsusa.com/sh-4-...top-34mm-tube/

I'm going to offer a differing view. I think a lot of folks figure that you have to have a high power range scope to make accurate shots. That higher power scope limits your rifle's usefulness in close range situations. It really narrows down your field of view while not providing a significant advantage at longer hunting ranges. If you can't hit a deer or hog at 8x at the hunting ranges you will most likely be experiencing, you won't hit it at 14x. Now if you are going to focus exclusively on long range activities, that's a different story. But you might want to rethink your power range if you hunt an area where your shots will be just as apt to be 30 yd as 300. All in all a 3x9 would be a good choice. I think a better one would be 2x8. Vortex makes good optics.

have wasted money buying a few vortex, my conclusion is if you want a quality piece of glass, and it has to be a vortex,, buy a viper or razor. The crossfires, the sidewinders, and even the venom are pretty poor for the money you pay. the sidewinder tacticals are almost unusable for tactical shooting. they are not. at all clear, do not track. but its your money.

I would look at the Sightron STAC 4-20x50 in duplex. Only real negative is the turrets are LARGE but capped. They have one in 3-16x42 also but i find it a little finicky above 14 power. Should be able to get them at Cameraland for under $400. Good rugged scope that holds zero well and the turrets are pretty decent.

[QUOTE=Quailman86;4423473]
swarovski habicht had mine for 32 years they come with a lifetime guarantee
zeiss 4x hunting scope when you get tired of it trade it on the above scope
bushnell banner at 1time this was bushnell best scope.

I started in a similar spot with my 6.5 CM and totally get the budget part—been there. Between the two Vortex options you mentioned, the Crossfire II is decent for beginners, especially if you’re sticking to under 300 yards. If you ever consider something a bit more versatile down the road, I’ve seen some solid feedback on the Gunnr Odin 1-8x24 LPVO—nice clarity and doesn’t break the bank. Good luck out there, and enjoy the hunt!

Welcome to the hunting world! For your 6.5 Creedmoor Ruger, skip the tactical scope. The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 is the perfect beginner hunting optic. If you're open to other brands, Sig Sauer makes great scopes. Also, while browsing, you might see their popular red dots like the Sig Sauer Romeo 5 for rifles or the Sig Sauer P365 Fuse for pistols, but for your hunting rifle, stick with a traditional variable-power scope.