Thread: Simple, reliable scope for short range

While experimenting with subsonic loads for my Bergara .357 magnum, I fitted a Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 4x32 scope. It was the only spare scope I had, having taken it off a .22 rifle which I sold.

I've found that I can remove the scope from the Bergara... and then refit it without having to adjust the scope. While I like to use open sights, there are occasions when a scope will ensure a better shot. With this particular rig I feel I am limited to keeping my shots within eighty yards most of the time.

I don't know much about scopes. This Nikko scope has worked very well for me even though shooting 200 grain bullets must shake it around a bit compared to a .22 rimfire bullet.

I'd like to know that I have a reliable scope on my rifle. I have been thinking about getting a nice compact low powered scope... maybe something like a Leupold 1.5 - 4. But I see there are other choices too, like a Simmons Whitetail Classic 1 - 4 x 20 for maybe half the price of the Leupold. I'd be perfectly happy (or even prefer) to have a fixed power scope with less working parts... say a 2.5 or 3 power, but they don't seem to be easy to find.

There are some really inexpensive scopes available on AliExpress and elsewhere, but I doubt that they'd be reliable. But who knows?

Anyway, I'd appreciate some comments. Is the Nikko Stirling more likely to fail than something else? How have Simmons scopes performed? Are there better options that aren't disproportionately expensive? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.