So I’m doing my research on optics for a hunting AR set up…I’ve got shooting experience with different RDS and 1.5X optics…I’m looking to extend my range with a variable optic that will give me the 8X on the top end for some more precision, but not sacrifice too much on the close inside 25 yard shots that might present themselves.
I put this question up on another board that is more hunting focused…thought I would ask here who might be using a 2.5X minimum in a variable, and how close (range wise) can you go in shooting with good results?
I’m not looking for RDS fast, but some thoughts from those that have used a 2.5X in the field and taken good hunting shots or 3-gun shots inside of 25 yards with a variable optic on the 2.5X setting. What do ya think of it?
Lots of variables here such as species of game you’ll be hunting (deer, hogs, coyotes), method of hunting (from a blind or stand - undisturbed animals; stalking - from undisturbed to quick jump shots; group hunts utilizing drives - deer potentially moving close to lightspeed), type of cover, etc.
I harvested a buck a few years back in a thicket that was so dense I couldn’t have made the shot without a magnified optic. The range was 20-25 yards and I had to line up 3 holes in the brush ahead of the buck and squeeze off just as he stepped into my crosshairs. I was using a fixed-power 4x Redfield Widefield on my Marlin 30-30.
I wouldn’t hesitate to use a 2.5x at distances less than 25 yards. Sounds to me like you’ll have a really nice setup for close-in shots and the ability to reach out when you need to if you go with the 2.5-8x. And with a 36mm objective, you’ll still have an exit pupil at 8x of 4.5 which is pretty good, considering the human eye has an exit pupil of from 5 to 7.
I have an MRT Leupold ITMR (same specs as you mention, so I’m assuming that’s the optic in question)
I have no problem shooting with 2.5x at 7 yards - it’s nowhere near as fast as an RDS, but on my longer SPR it runs just fine. With the illuminated TMR reticle, it runs a bit like an occluded eye sight, but not the greatest.
It wouldn’t be my choice for shooting in brush, really up close, or at night, but otherwise it’s GTG. For the applications this won’t work on, a 1-4x Day/Night optic would be my choice.
Thanks guys, I appreciate the experiences and opinions.
Yep, looking at the Leupold…not sure on the illuminated reticle or not yet. My concern on the close end is for the stalking shots on hog/deer inside of 25 yards…mostly hog inside of 25. I really like the idea of the 8X magnification to help with accuracy, and the flexibility to dial down to 2.5X.
Like everyone…looking for the 1X - 100X that is not too big, heavy, or costs as much as a truck…and lets you shoot anything and everything. I’m thinking this 2.5X - 8X might be my best compromise all the way around.
Swaro’s Z6i might be worth looking into - only 6x at the top end, but it would perform pretty well from contact to 200m. The only thing I wish it had as a BDC reticle, but it might be a better fit for your uses.
The smaller MR/T’s at 1.5-6x would also be an option, but the smaller objective lens would be a bit of a limitation in low light.
I’m thinking this 2.5X - 8X might be my best compromise all the way around.