Need advice on scope for my first safari rifle

[grand veneur]

Recknagel - Accessories for Hunting Rifles - Catalog › Recknagel

All type of ERA scope mounts for hunting- and sporting rifles, incl. Picatinny Rails, accessories and spare parts. Special tools for the gunsmith.

www.recknagel.de

Scope mounts, Catalog 12
Page 28-33

 

[skydiver386]

Tina and I have probably 15 Leupold scopes with the Firedot, and have had zero problems. If I'm going to put the gun in the safe, and it's likely to sit there a year or more, I'll turn the battery around as others have said. If it's going to be used more frequently, I adjust it to its lowest power setting.

Also remember the Leupolds have an automatic shutdown after a few minutes, but will turn themselves on again when moved. I have a Leupold VXR on a SIG AR style rifle that is shot frequently and it's battery has lasted 3 years without replacement.

Others may disagree, but I think 1-5 power is plenty for nearly everything. Optical quality, light gathering, a clear and non cluttered reticle are more important a hunting rifle than magnification.

 

[grand veneur]

Pivot mounts • EAW

www.eaw.de

 

[ftrovato]

Personally I'm a fan of Open Sights for Buffalo & having as much as 9 power for Plains Game.

Quick Release Bases are a nice option. Then you have quick access to the open sightes and a reliable optic in hand at all times for plains game easily to 200 yards.

If you're not an open sight guy and don't have deep pockets for a 1-8 scope you can use two scopes. A 1-4 & 3-9 gets you two Leupolds' and with 4 quick release rings for $800 you cover every situation a 375 can handle.

Last it's always good to have an extra scope anyway. Hard to find one of them in the bush if you have a failure.

 

[deewayne2003]

Hi,

Long time reader, new to posting.

I am looking for some advice on scopes. I have a Winchester model 70 in 375 H&H on order. My future plan is to hunt a cape buffalo and some plains game and like the idea of a 1 rifle battery for the trip. In the mean time, i plan to occasionally use it for elk and bear in the Pacific NorthWest.

I am looking at a Leupold VX-5 1-5x24 firedot duplex. It seems to possess enough eye relief for the caliber.

I’ve never owned a leupold or a scope that uses a battery.

Can anyone provide some input on scopes?

Can anyone speak on the reliability/quality of the vx-5 scope? Battery corrosion? Failures? Anything?

I need an education.

Thank you all!

@661944 Like you I am in the process of deciding what scope to put on a .375H&H and after looking around and weighing several options I decided to ask @Mark Biggerstaff and I believe he suggested the perfect scope options.......

option 1 - Leupold VX5 2-10x42 FireDot Duplex.

option 2 - VX3 Twilight Hunter 3.5-10x40

I believe I will go with option 1, because the 2-10x42 with 30mm tube and fire dot will so versatile.

The 1.5-5x scopes are not for me, I don't like having the front sight in the field of view and the lower maximum magnification is a draw back as well.

A .375H&H with the VX5 2-10x42 would be about the most versatile rifle that I can think.

So for my .375 I'm going with the VX5 2-10x42 Firedot duplex mounted in Alaska Arms QD rings.

 

[Andrew62]

For several safaris I also used a Leupold in 1.5x5. When I would sometimes find myself trying to shoot 200-250 at a springbuck, I found the 5 power a little lacking. My .375H&H now sports a Leupold VX5 in 2x10. I love the ability to take longer shots should I decide to do so, which I will admit rarely happens, but limiting yourself to 5 power max may be shorting yourself a little bit.

 

[Rem700stw]

My 375 set up for Africa is Leupold QD base/rings and Swarovski Z8i. I am not a fan of big objectives or super high magnification. I have shot Springbok past 300 yards with this rifle and scope combo when my other rifle shot craps in the Karoo.

 

[dogcat1]

Buy and use what your "eye" likes. Use what you can see through and quickly acquire the target.
I prefer the Swarovski Z6i 2.4-10x42 in a plex i reticle. But that is what I like the best.
Leupold is a fine scope. The firedot is a nice feature. I have used the 2.5-8x36 on a few hunts and it is fine.
Again, go with name brand and what your eye likes.

 

[Rafiki]

Should work well. Main problem I see with battery powered scopes is they get left on and die!

I make a point when I’m done with the rifle to unscrew the battery and flip it over so it can’t get turned on. When I grab it to go out I flip it on, and always have a spare

The Leupold turns itself off.

 

[Moody808]

I just ordered a set EAW mounts for my 375h&h. It will go with a Leica Amplus 2.5 to 10. This isn't really intended for DG though, it's my all purpose hunting rifle. For DG I hage a 450-400NE, with a red dot. But both rifles have the optic mounted on quick release pivot mounts so I can switch to iron sights in a hurry should I need to.

If you are interested in a quick release pivot mounts a strongly recommend NECG.

Gunmaking, Gunsmithing, Firearm Restoration, Optics | New England Custom Gun Service, Ltd.

 

[wildwilderness]

But, you have had no issues of scope failure, just dead battery's?

No. I have a 2-10x Leupold on my 375 Ruger and has been great. Very versatile that way, have shot antelope past 200 with it.

I also reload and always like to shoot tight groups at 100yds to nit pick which load best. Hard to shoot sub MOA at that far with out higher magnification

 

[Raven]

If you are going to use the scope not only on safari, but also want a Leupold, then take the VX-6 2-12x42. It will be enough for you for any hunting.

 

[coreydb]

A 2x-9x with a red dot will be more than enough. All my plains game animals were taken with that power scope out to 300 yds. I used the same scope on my 375 HH to harvest the sable in my profile pic and my cape buffalo. The only thing missing was the red/fire dot. About a third of my pg animals were taken just prior to dusk and getting an accurate bead on them was next to impossible. Fire dot all the way.

 

[Cotton King]

I had similar questions about a year ago and after watching Philip’s video, purchased the Leupold VX6 2-12x42 for my Winchester Model 70 Safari Express in 375 HH. I spoke with Mark Biggerstaff and he had the best price on that scope. It would be worth a call to visit with Mark.

 

[Fatback]

I have VX5s, 2-10s on my 375 H&H and 416 Rem and have been very pleased. I did have the 1-5 version on my 458 Win before selling it. That scope is now on my 404Jeffery. I love the firedot feature for sure. I also agree to reach out to @Mark Biggerstaff if you are thinking about Leupold optics. He has helped me with getting quite a few scopes for my rifles. Great guy to deal with.

 

[Velo Dog]

Greetings 661944,

I’m the nut bar that prefers relatively low powered, non variable power scopes, with plain cross wire reticule and no batteries.
I have settled on the above from having lived in Alaska 42 years now plus, I’ve hunted more than a few other places, including Africa seven times.
And so far, I have never needed or even wanted a variable power scope, neither have I ever felt the urge to use a battery powered one, for any reason.

More than once, I have seen a hunter get busy messing around with a variable powered scope when instead, he should’ve been quickly settled onto the sticks and firing a shot.
Most African animals in my experience do not stand around and stare at us while we are fidgeting with our accessories.
Likewise, I have seen a variable scope accidentally left on too high of power some time before entering a thicket.
Then, when a desireable critter suddenly appeared at very close range and thereby a shot opportunity was lost into the thick foliage.

My preference is a simple and sturdy 4x scope, in best quality rings, mounted as low over the bore as possible.
Admittedly, it is not the variable power scope’s fault but instead it’s the hunter’s fault.
Also, it is worth mentioning that today’s variable power scopes are much better than they were many years ago, when I began hunting hoofed critters (1960’s).
(And if I were not so scatterbrained and forgetful, perhaps I’d favor those.
Perhaps not, I don’t know).
Anyway, if a Hunter has the wherewithal to leave their scope be at lower power while walking, and instead just quickly shoot straight, a variable power scope works as well as any.

Here in Alaska where I live, I’ve seen tiny batteries in scopes freeze and quit.
So, if you decide to have one for whatever reason with a battery in it, choose one that still works like a regular scope when said battery fails.
I get the impression that battery powered scopes have also come a long way for reliability in recent years.
Again, I’ve never needed one but, if a Hunter wants a battery powered one, then they should get one and practice mightily with it.

Last but not least, many fellow Americans tend to rely on unnecessarily powerful, if not awkwardly large, heavy scopes with huge front lenses.
They also too often think highest velocity is best for all species at all distances, including close in.
Both are mistakes for the vast majority of Africa’s hunting conditions and the vast majority of Alaska’s hunting conditions as well.

Best Regards,
Velo Dog.

 

[Doug Hamilton]

Hi,

Long time reader, new to posting.

I am looking for some advice on scopes. I have a Winchester model 70 in 375 H&H on order. My future plan is to hunt a cape buffalo and some plains game and like the idea of a 1 rifle battery for the trip. In the mean time, i plan to occasionally use it for elk and bear in the Pacific NorthWest.

I am looking at a Leupold VX-5 1-5x24 firedot duplex. It seems to possess enough eye relief for the caliber.

I’ve never owned a leupold or a scope that uses a battery.

Can anyone provide some input on scopes?

Can anyone speak on the reliability/quality of the vx-5 scope? Battery corrosion? Failures? Anything?

I need an education.

Thank you all!

I do not have a .375 H&H, but I have taken buffalo and plains game in Africa, and have hunted elk and bears in the Pacific Northwest, as I.live in Washington. It seems to.me that a scope that tops out a 5 may be a little low powered for your stated desires. Elk especially tend to be further out, but I have also taken PG out to about 300 yards. I use a .458 WM with a low power scope (1.5-5) for buffalo and a .300 WM with a 3.5- 10 Leupold for everything else. It seems to me that a Leupold 2-7 might suit your needs a little better. I wouldn't go above 2 power on the low end. If you M 70 comes with iron sights, I would mount the scope with a QD system. That's how I mounted the scope on my .458 though I haven't felt a need to remove it on either of the two bulls that I've taken.

Best of luck on your upcoming hunts.

Doug

 

[JG26Irish_2]

I have been in your shoes. I have two 375HH rifles and was prepping to go on 1st Safari a couple of years ago. I put a Leupold 1.5-4x LPVO on my first rifle but it lacked the fire dot reticle that you are looking at. The scope was nice and I liked it. I decided to take it on my annual trek to WV to deer hunt that first year to get some field time with the rifle. Time at the range is good but field time in the woods is priceless.

I killed a deer that year with it but it highlighted the value of an illuminated reticle. Also, a true 1x optic allows you to shoot with both eyes open like it is a reddot for up close fast footwork. So, long story short, I swapped the Leupold for a Swarovski Z6i. I actually bought the Swaro and a Kahles K16i at the same time. I liked the Kahles better but the Swaro fit that rifle better. It has nice features such as high and low light switch for the red dot and the battery saver feature is so well thought out. I also like the Z6i reticle better than the Z8i. With that combo, I took a world class Blue Wildebeest last year.

Points to ponder:

1. Take two rifles. I took a 308 and the 375 and learned that a 308, 30-06, 7mm Mag or 300WM will kill any non DG animal in Africa.
2. Lighted reticle is a must.
3. You DO NOT need a high magnification optic to hunt in Africa or North America. 1-6x, 1-8x, 2.5-8x is more than enough.
4. In fact a high powered optic is a handicap for hunters unless you are only hunting wide open spaces where long prone or supported shots are the norm (i.e. Texas Beanfields)

After my 1st safari, I bought a 2nd 375HH. It is more accurate and the Kahles 1-6x optic fit on it well. I like both but the Kahles is just a little better. Kahles and Swarovski are owned by the same company but are mfg in two different locations. I cannot tell a difference in the glass but liked the Kahles Mil-Dot reticle better.

Now for the heresy comments. You do not need a $2-3k Euro-optik Wundar-Skopen to hunt DG in Africa. I have two Arken Optics EP-8 1-8x illuminated LPVO scopes. One is on my 7mm/08 and will travel to Africa with me for PG hunting this year. The other is on a lightweight Ruger M77 Hawkeye in 338 RCM. This rifle with scope weighs about 6.5lbs compared to my 375's at 9.5-10lbs. The 338 has a sharp recoil and the Arken has worked like a champ thru over 30rds of 225g Superformance ammo without a hiccup. The glass in this $300 optic is at least 80% as clear as the Euro's for 1/8th the price. The turrets are better and the lighted reticle is nice. It has a fine center dot for precise aiming when time allows and a big ghost ring for when time is of the essence. It is a fine scope that punches well above its weight class. If I covered up the name and told you it was a $2500 NightForce or a Vortex Razor most shooters would not know the difference. I am not affiliated with Arken but I am a fan of their fine optics.

Counter point. I also have a 7mm Mag that wears a nice 3.5-18x Swarovski. I thought the higher power scope would complement the long range capacity of the 7mm Mag. It did but when compared to the shorter, lighter, handier 7mm/08 with the little Arken, I found the smaller rifle with the lower powered scope to be a better option for my hunting and did not give up anything in accuracy out to 400y which is further than I plan to shoot on game animals. If all I did was shoot targets, I would take the higher power scope but for hunting you are better off with modest power and a great rifle that shoots 1/2" groups at 100y. That gives you all the confidence you need to hunt well.

 

[Jagerrand]

I have a model 70 375 H&H just got back from Africa. I had a Steiner 1-4 scope and it was fine. I have since moved that scope to my 404 J and purchased a VX 5 2-10x42 Leupold with firedot from Mark B. Mark was great to work with. The new scope will make the gun much more versatile.

 

[Rifleman97]

I've owned 3 leupold mark v's and none of them I really trusted. The first 2 would not hold a zero to save their life. 3rd one seemed to work okay but by then it's reputation and confidence in my rifle setup was gone. Sold the last one after 1 successful hunting season with it. Went nightforce and never looked back. That was not for a 1-5 however, that was a 5-25 I had issues with, went nightforce NXS 5.5-22 after that.

I would seriously check out Tract optics. Their LPVO is a 1-8x24 with a full honest 4 inches of eye relief, sub 1000 USD (even if barely) and it was designed by the guys who made the Nikon scopes back in the day. Theyre the first scopes I've seen come out recently that people have used as hammers, dunked completely in a bucket of water for 20+ minutes, and remounted with no change in zero.

My brother has their 2.5-15x44 and after using it a few times with him on his gun I will be ordering one of them with my next rifle purchase because I am so impressed with their quality.

I am a huge proponent of function over beauty, but have both when you can. Thats why I run nightforce on my elk gun, as it has the most chance of being banged around. But I think tract has earned my respect as right there with nightforce for hunting durability. I wish I could trust leupold, with that beautiful gold ring that just looks perfect on any hunting rifle with a wood stock. But my confidence in them was destroyed with how poorly they kept zero for me.

Tina and I have probably 15 Leupold scopes with the Firedot, and have had zero problems. If I'm going to put the gun in the safe, and it's likely to sit there a year or more, I'll turn the battery around as others have said. If it's going to be used more frequently, I adjust it to its lowest power setting.

Also remember the Leupolds have an automatic shutdown after a few minutes, but will turn themselves on again when moved. I have a Leupold VXR on a SIG AR style rifle that is shot frequently and it's battery has lasted 3 years without replacement.

Others may disagree, but I think 1-5 power is plenty for nearly everything. Optical quality, light gathering, a clear and non cluttered reticle are more important a hunting rifle than magnification.

A few years ago I successfully shot a buck deer at a hair over 300 yards with a 1-6x24 athlon Midas BTR. Trying to get closer would've been impossible as the buck was standing out in the middle of an empty plowed corn field with 0 cover and no hills to speak of. Worked just fine. IMO 1 power for every hundred yards you're shooting is good enough for anything antelope sized and up. More power lets you place your shot a little more precisely, but it's certainly not necessary for a clean kill. That was probably one of the easiest pack outs I've ever done, just drove right up to it with the side by side and lifted it in. Albeit lifting that huge buck in was far from easy. Typing from my computer now but I'll post a pic from my phone of it in the next message