Low cost optics finds

[Fat Tony]

OK. We all know that normally you get what you pay for. Especially with optics. However, not everyone can put a VX-III on every one of their rfles, M/L and shotguns. Also, not everyone needs a scope that can put lead on a groundhog at 300 yards. Many just need a decent scope for woods hunting where the longest shot they may ever see is 75 yards. For these applications, I've found a couple of servicable scopes out there for not a bunch of $$. Interetsted if anyone else has.

I put a Bushnell Banner 4.5x on a 20 gauge 7 years ago and it has been a dream. Paid $65 for it at Dicks Sporting Goods (it was all I could afford at the time), I've beat the everlovin' heck out of it and it has killed a lot of deer. Have not needed to adjust the dang thing since I mounted it in 2001. Other cheapie that has been a real find, I needed a short eye relief scope for my son's NEF Handi-Rifle youth .243. Last X-Mas I found a small Bushnell high contrast 4x (not even sure of the model name) for $80 at Dicks. Thing is a beaut out to maybe 75 yards or so. Clear as my VX-II. Past that, 4x is not enough for these old eyes.

Forget reviews and ratings. I'm interested in real life application. Any other hidden gems out there for not a bunch of $$?

[duckslayer870]

Simmons Aetec for about 2 bills you can have a great variable power scope. Mine is a 2.8-12 and its as clear a bell and its as tough as they come. I also like the nikon buckmaster series for under 2 bills way better glass than the leupold rifleman. You can get a lot better deals on glass SWFA website than in stores. They are a direct seller. i would like to here opinions on binos as i am needing a decent pair with out taking out a loan.

[westkybanded]

If you know what you're looking for, some of the older Tasco "Euro Class" scopes from the late 80's and early 90's are absolue jems. You'll find them every now and then at gun shows for next to nothing.

[billyjimbob]

Go to wallmart they have nikons under 200 full size real deal

[CanisMajor]

Alpen also makes outstanding optics that are an excellent value.

[pentail]

Alpen also makes outstanding optics that are an excellent value.


every review of Alpen products I have ever read has been outstanding. In fact, Outdoor Life just voted the Alpen compact spotting scope the "best of the test" I believe the price on it was around 40 bucks, the second place finisher was around a 1000 bucks. I am going to check out Alpen binos and rifle scopes soon

[NonTyp]

Vortex has some great glass and a warranty second to none.

[Fat Tony]

I need to get out more! Never even heard of Alpen or Vortex. Been a couple of years since I was in the market.

[therron258]

i have a centerpoint scope, wal mart makes it, it was 70 bucks. i have the 4-16-40 model, really nice. reticle lights up either red or green, and can stay black as well. Also carries a lifetime warranty

[Fat Tony]

Good information here, fellas. With this economy, we may need to start a low cost/value hunting equiptment forum!

[trust me]

Good information here, fellas. With this economy, we may need to start a low cost/value hunting equiptment forum!

Good Point. If we find ourselves in a deep recession or even Depression, I'm sure we'll all find that we can get along famously with very little high-priced equipment.

With a shotgun, 22 rifle, and a bucket of traps, I think I could meet my kids' protein needs from now on.

[TRAILMASTER]

I have an older 3x12x 40 Tasco on my .270 for almost 10 years now and the scope is older than that, it has been a dandy. I also have a tasco 3x9x 32 on my marlin .22 and have a 3x9-32 golden antler tasco on my .50 cal CVA Optima. All work just fine have nothing bad to say about tasco.

[killer]

I just bought 2 new in the box nikon prostaff 3x9x40 scopes on ebay for 118.00 each, shipping was free.

[Scott7m]

I just bought 2 new in the box nikon prostaff 3x9x40 scopes on ebay for 118.00 each, shipping was free.

great move killer...... there an awesome scope for the money.

[Kaibaby]

Mueller APV 4.5-14x40 AO aprox $130. Haven't tried one yet personally but am sure of it. Have heard nothing but Praise about this scope for the $. muelleroptics.com, then click on rimfire. If'n Iwas going to a higher power on my squirrel rifle this would be my 1st pick! I can vouch for this one though. It's on my squirrel rifle and It's staying there! Weaver RV7 2.5-7x28, $119. Leupold has pretty much the same scope for not sure, but aprox $300? The Weaver is just as clear&dependable!