Lightweight Rifle Project (Part 7 of 10)

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posted on October 4, 2011
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Lightweight Optics: Part 7 of 10

Choosing a scope for this rifle was a bit agonizing (in a good way, like deciding between the Porterhouse and the Filet). I like the simplicity and durability of fixed-power models like the Leupold FX-11 6x36mm but, at 10 ounces, we could do a bit better when it came down to weight.

Leupold’s Ultralight line is designed for precisely this purpose, maximum performance with minimal weight. The VX-II 3-9x33mm ultralight gives us a great deal of versatility due to its magnification range and weighs in at only 8.8 ounces.

One of today’s debates is: Which is better for taking longer shots, dials or reticles? My opinion is that dials are more precise yet reticles are faster. The good news is that you can have both: I opted for the LR Duplex reticle and the addition of a CDS dial added by Leupold’s Custom Shop. The bad news is the the CDS dial & it’s mechanism added a few tenths of an ounce, a fair trade for no holdover out to 600 yards.

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