Yesterday I bought a new Henry 45-70 for use on bears over bait.

I originally wanted a .405, but realized I would have a hard time finding one at the price I wanted, and also ammo was not very common.

The rifle I bought has a 16" barrel and is beautifully stocked in walnut.

Rather than side loading it uses a tube, like the ones that are so common on .22 semi-auto rifles.

Now I want to mount a scope on it for use in low light conditions. I don't really need much power, 3x would be plenty. Any recommendations?

Also as an aside, prior to buying the Henry, I went to Cabela's and in their Gun Library I found a used Marlin 1895 GBL.

It was just what I was looking for, the price was $899.00! I pointed out to the gun clerk, that I could buy a brand new one from Cabela's (online order) for $679.00.

He than asked if I would pay $679.00 for the used one! I told him "I can buy a brand new one for that price, why would I pay that for a used one. That would be insane."

Bottom line always check prices on-line before buying any used gun!.

BH63

I can think of two:
Leupold 1.5x5 or Nikon 1x4. My Henry wears the 1.5x5

If the used one was a real marlin with a barrel marked JM, that would account for the difference in price. Marlin rifles are currently manufactured by remingtom (serial numbers start mr) and the quality has been poor. So, a marlin rifle will cost more than a remlin, even though the marlin is used and the remlin new. Exactly like a used winchester pre 64 will cost more than a new one.

Contributors tell me that the Leupold FX-II 2.5x20 is the successor to the Compact model Atkinson loves for its toughness.

If you need even longer eye relief, the FX-II Scout 2.5x28 might be even better.

Yup Leupold FX-II 2.5 compact is a great scope. Been around a long time and known for toughness. Plus it doesn't destroy the nice handling qualities of a lever action.

I like the 3X Leupolds if you can find them..They show up around here every once in a while..I have a few of them..

I like the Leupold VX-HOG 1-4x20mm scope so much I've purchased three of them. The Pig-Plex reticle is really nice. They are light, compact, clear and bright, and reasonably priced..

quote:

I can think of two:Leupold 1.5x5 or Nikon 1x4. My Henry wears the 1.5x5

yes both well work great

I have a Leo 1.5-5 on my buffalo rifle (.416 REM MAG).

I wanted something with more light-gathering ability.

I finally bought a Leo VR2 2-7x33. (That's the nearest to what I wanted at Cabela's that day).

It seems to be fairly compact and the larger objective lens should bring in more light.

Thanks,

BH63