Thread: Scope recommendations and budget

Definitely consider 2nd hand scopes - there are some great deals on quality optics to be had. Typically prices for good condition (near new) 2nd hand will be 2/3rd or less from retail. 3-9x 40 or 42 will do the trick, but personally I’d go for more magnification, like 2 or 2.5 -10, or 3-12 or 3-15x. I guess it’s going to depend on budget. But focus on quality brands and optical performance. You can’t shoot what you can’t see. And often it’s that last 10min of light when the animals start to move from cover. A 44mm objective is worth considering as it gives you better low light performance, assuming quality of glass is what it should be. Leupy, Burris, Bushnell, Zeiss (HD5) all good brands without going to top end of Euro optics.