I'm having a 26" 280 AI barrel being made for the encore rifle. I want to put a scope that would be suitable for hunting elk. What power/powers scope would be suggested for that task? I was thinking about a 4x12 & 2.5x10. If you wouldn't use either that I was thinking about, what would you use?
Rich Jake

Just an opinion but, a 2.5x10 should be plenty. Odds are you will need a spotting scope to get a good look at the far ones and binoculars for the rest. All you need to do is get close enough for an accurate, good placed shot and the 2.5x10 should give a good sight picture. Of course, there are always those who say more is better. Probably be better off looking at the different scopes and choosing one you like. I don't like the adjustable objective on the higher power scopes, but that is just me.

I avoid the astronomical observatory size scopes on rifles I have to drag around the mountains at elevations from 9,000 to 12,000 feet after elk! I think a Leupold 28mm obj 2X-7X is about ideal for a mountain rifle. Another option that is excellent for such uses is a plain 6X!

Thanks guys so I'll probably look in the 2.5x10 catagory. I guess that I could go to a 3x9 then. I do want to practice 200 Yards though so I might just stay in the 2.5x10 area.
Rich Jake

An elk is a big target even at 300yds. I like the Leup. VXIII 2.5x8. I have them on all of my deer/elk rifles except my little .280. It wears a Leup. 3-9 comp. for a light, nimble handling rifle. You don't need the bulk & wight of a 4-12 for elk.

Second the straignt 6x They are my favorite. If you want to go variable look into the Rainguard coatings on the Bushnell elite series. Seems like it really does work. Also purchase a set of bikini scope covers to keep your lenses dry.

One of the best ways to ruin the way a nice rifle handles is to put a rifle scope that rifals the size and weight of the Hubble.
For a rifle that will be hand carried in rough country or be used in a saddle scabbard a scope the size of the Leupold 2.5x8 or say the 1" Ziess 3x9 seem just right to me.