Scope Advice

[DD698]

I have a Stevens Model 200 bolt action in the 223 cal and wish to put a scope on it for varmint hunting at ranges between 100 and 300 yds max. I would like suggestions as to scope power and brand.The Stevens is a low cost rifle and Im looking for a low cost scope. The varmints include crows,fox,coyote, and chucks. Thanks Neil

[FirstFreedom]

This is what I have on MY varminter .223:

http://www.muelleroptics.com/products/MU852550IGR.html

And this one is on a varminter .243:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330020591678

But how low is "low cost", exactly?

Under $250, 225? 200? 175? 150? 125? 100?

On a real tight budget, I'd probably give a try to a Master Series Simmons - one of the "ProHunters":

http://www.simmonsoptics.com/Riflescopes_MS_PH.htm

[moredes]

Traditional wisdom says to 'spend an equal amount on the scope, to the value (not cost) of the rifle'.

If you ever intend to move up in rifle quality, I'd suggest you look at Leupolds or Burris Black Diamonds as a medium-quality scope. If not, or if you intend to always keep the rifle scoped, even if you dispose of it, then I'd probably go cheaper, but stay away from BSA, ATN, and Trashco.

For magnification, 3-9x will do fine; 10x is as big as I'd go in a fixed-power scope. At 300yd, there's not really a need for anything stronger (aim small, miss small).