The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\nTest Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n \n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\nTest Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n
Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\nTest Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
Determine the intended use for your AR<\/a> and what ranges you will encounter. The definition of \u201clong-range\u201d depends on your area and rifle configuration. If 500 yards is the farthest you\u2019ll shoot, there is no need for a 25X riflescope; 16X and similar scopes offer plenty of magnification and often cost much less. If you are heading towards 1,000 yards, 25X magnification is fine, but you can get much higher. Just remember that mirage makes super-high-power scopes useless, so know your area. They are also a pain to mount. Get what you need, maybe a bit more, but don\u2019t go overboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"180516\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Determine the intended use for your AR<\/a> and what ranges you will encounter. The definition of \u201clong-range\u201d depends on your area and rifle configuration. If 500 yards is the farthest you\u2019ll shoot, there is no need for a 25X riflescope; 16X and similar scopes offer plenty of magnification and often cost much less. If you are heading towards 1,000 yards, 25X magnification is fine, but you can get much higher. Just remember that mirage makes super-high-power scopes useless, so know your area. They are also a pain to mount. Get what you need, maybe a bit more, but don\u2019t go overboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"180516\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Determine the intended use for your AR<\/a> and what ranges you will encounter. The definition of \u201clong-range\u201d depends on your area and rifle configuration. If 500 yards is the farthest you\u2019ll shoot, there is no need for a 25X riflescope; 16X and similar scopes offer plenty of magnification and often cost much less. If you are heading towards 1,000 yards, 25X magnification is fine, but you can get much higher. Just remember that mirage makes super-high-power scopes useless, so know your area. They are also a pain to mount. Get what you need, maybe a bit more, but don\u2019t go overboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"180516\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Determine the intended use for your AR<\/a> and what ranges you will encounter. The definition of \u201clong-range\u201d depends on your area and rifle configuration. If 500 yards is the farthest you\u2019ll shoot, there is no need for a 25X riflescope; 16X and similar scopes offer plenty of magnification and often cost much less. If you are heading towards 1,000 yards, 25X magnification is fine, but you can get much higher. Just remember that mirage makes super-high-power scopes useless, so know your area. They are also a pain to mount. Get what you need, maybe a bit more, but don\u2019t go overboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"180516\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Determine the intended use for your AR<\/a> and what ranges you will encounter. The definition of \u201clong-range\u201d depends on your area and rifle configuration. If 500 yards is the farthest you\u2019ll shoot, there is no need for a 25X riflescope; 16X and similar scopes offer plenty of magnification and often cost much less. If you are heading towards 1,000 yards, 25X magnification is fine, but you can get much higher. Just remember that mirage makes super-high-power scopes useless, so know your area. They are also a pain to mount. Get what you need, maybe a bit more, but don\u2019t go overboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"180516\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Determine the intended use for your AR<\/a> and what ranges you will encounter. The definition of \u201clong-range\u201d depends on your area and rifle configuration. If 500 yards is the farthest you\u2019ll shoot, there is no need for a 25X riflescope; 16X and similar scopes offer plenty of magnification and often cost much less. If you are heading towards 1,000 yards, 25X magnification is fine, but you can get much higher. Just remember that mirage makes super-high-power scopes useless, so know your area. They are also a pain to mount. Get what you need, maybe a bit more, but don\u2019t go overboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"180516\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n Determine the intended use for your AR<\/a> and what ranges you will encounter. The definition of \u201clong-range\u201d depends on your area and rifle configuration. If 500 yards is the farthest you\u2019ll shoot, there is no need for a 25X riflescope; 16X and similar scopes offer plenty of magnification and often cost much less. If you are heading towards 1,000 yards, 25X magnification is fine, but you can get much higher. Just remember that mirage makes super-high-power scopes useless, so know your area. They are also a pain to mount. Get what you need, maybe a bit more, but don\u2019t go overboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"180516\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t mount a $300 riflescope on a $3,000 precision rifle. Lenses cost money; the better the lens, the higher the cost. Generally, the greater the magnification, the more the scope will cost. Precision requires attention to detail during the build and high-quality construction. Knobs must hold up under constant use and return to zero\u2014this all adds up. So get the most glass that you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s astounding how many expensive scopes I see in dime store rings. The riflescope is only as steady as the mount. If it comes loose or shifts, you will never shoot consistently at range. Do you need a $600 mount? Probably not; there are super-strong and solid rings at a third that cost, maybe less. Just don\u2019t drop your high-dollar scope into $25 rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modern reticles using holds and \u201ctrees\u201d for adjustments are great if you are actually using them for wind and elevation holds. If your riflescope is just for aiming, however, keep it simple. You need something to determine your hits or splashes off target, but the reticle can be pretty rudimentary. Just because it is the latest in tactical reticles doesn\u2019t mean it is of any value to you. Pick one that suits your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n[in_content post=\"186703\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\n\n\n\n Depending on your caliber and how far out you want to go, you are going to want some built-in elevation in your rail or mount. Fast, flat-shooting calibers may not need it out to 1,500 yards or so. Bigger, slower calibers may need 20 MOA at least. In most cases, 20 MOA or less is not an issue, even 30 MOA, but some of the 40-MOA bases out there just won\u2019t let you zero your scope at 100 yards. If 1,000 yards is your limit, a flat rail may be all that you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The farther you shoot, the more important your riflescope's level. If your mount does not have a level, get a good one. If you only use your reticle, then make sure it is level. If you dial, the erector (what\u2019s under the knob) is what matters. Your reticle may be off, but if it is level, your adjustments will be precise. Off just a little at 800-plus yards means a clear miss on most targets, so have a way to make certain your scope is level when breaking the shot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n","post_title":"6 Tips to Get the Most Out of an AR Riflescope","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"6-riflescope-tips-tricks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-28 12:09:31","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-28 16:09:31","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/20\/6-riflescope-tips-tricks\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":132848,"post_author":"579","post_date":"2017-12-12 09:00:10","post_date_gmt":"2017-12-12 14:00:10","post_content":"\r\n\r\nThe previous Leupold Mark 8\u00a03.5-25x56mm M5B2 riflescope has been a workhorse for me for a few years. Built like a tank, it offers plenty of elevation and crystal-clear glass. I initially used this scope<\/a> with a TMR reticle, but the last year or so, it has seen use with a David Tubb Dynamic Targeting Reticle (DTR).\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"189371\" alignment=\"align-left\" \/]\r\n\r\nI\u2019ve used the Leupold Mark 8 on a number of guns in various calibers, and it has proven precise, consistent and capable. It\u2019s just heavy, and the lighted reticle knob severely limits your mounting space. Mine uses \u201cpinch and turn\u201d knobs, a favorite, but they add weight and are pretty tall. The newer M5C2 knobs are flatter with a more user-friendly zero stop. I also needed a reticle less dependent on ballistics that can be used on multiple platforms. My experience with the Horus T3 is extensive, and this reticle\u2019s availability in the new Mark 8 made it a solid choice for me.\r\n\r\nThe latest Leupold Mark 8, the 3.5-25x56mm M5C2, lost a couple things, including some weight (over 5 ounces) and the illuminated reticle. The weight savings is immediately noticeable. No, 5 ounces isn\u2019t a ton, but you can feel it on an AR. Illuminated reticles have their place, but you don\u2019t need them all the time, especially if you use night-vision or thermal devices. Removing this capability and its corresponding knob produced a sleeker design that allows for more mounting space. It also cuts the production cost. You can still get the illuminated version, but at a retail price that is almost $1,500 more.\r\n\r\nThe new markings on the Mark 8 M5C2 knobs are larger and brighter, making them visible without my glasses. The zero stops are solid and easily adjusted, and the scope offers 26 mils or 93 MOA of elevation, which is excellent for a high-power model. With a 35mm tube, the scope has a 56mm objective and an overall length of 18 inches. It weighs 32.5 ounces, which is comparable to most larger scopes.\r\n\r\nI was able to zero this new scope using a 20-MOA mount on a 20-MOA rail, something that isn\u2019t always possible. Having 3.5X magnification at the low end is huge for police snipers and those working in tactical environments, as it provides a wide field of view so you can see your team. At the same time, 25X nets you the detail necessary at close range and magnification for longer distances. The glass is very crisp and clear, even on targets close to a mile away.\r\n2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
![\"leupold](\"https:\/\/cdn.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/Riflescope-7.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Get All The Glass You Need<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
![\"leupold](\"https:\/\/cdn.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/Riflescope-6.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Get All The Glass You Need<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
![\"leupold](\"https:\/\/cdn.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/Riflescope-9.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Get All The Glass You Need<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
![\"leupold](\"https:\/\/cdn.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/Riflescope-4.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Get All The Glass You Need<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
![\"leupold](\"https:\/\/cdn.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/Riflescope-3.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Get All The Glass You Need<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published in \"AR Rifleman\" 2018. To order a copy, visit outdoorgroupstore.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong>","post_title":"On Target: The Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm M5C2","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"leupold-mark-8-riflescope","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-31 16:24:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/2017\/12\/12\/leupold-mark-8-riflescope\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":4},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"jnews_block_23"};
BROWSE BY BRAND
![\"leupold](\"https:\/\/cdn.dev.athlonoutdoors.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/Riflescope-5.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Get All The Glass You Need<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. By Once, Cry Once<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Use A Good Riflescope Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4.<\/strong> Use The Correct Reticle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5.<\/strong> Know<\/strong> Your<\/strong> Elevation\/Cant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Stay level<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Test Platform<\/b><\/h3>\r\nI tested the new Leupold Mark 8 M5C2\u00a0on a .260 Remington rifle I built on a Mega Arms<\/a> receiver set with a 22-inch Proof Research<\/a> CAMGAS barrel. Dedicated to competition, it sports an APA<\/a> Little Bastard muzzle brake, a LaRue Tactical<\/a> two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS stock<\/a>. To install the scope, I used a Spuhr ISMS<\/a> mount. It mounts low on a flat rail (AR or otherwise), with 20 MOA of elevation and a level built-in. Finally, I added an EOTech MRDS reflex sight on top of the scope, in an offset position, to spot small targets at distance.\r\n\r\n[in_content post=\"186616\" alignment=\"align-right\" \/]\r\n\r\nThe optics package was set up and zeroed using Hornady<\/a>\u2019s 130-grain ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match ammunition, then trued at 1,172 yards along with three other loads. And once the shooting started with the Mark 8, groups in the 10-inch range on a 12-by-16-inch steel target were the norm. It was a hot day, but the mirage was manageable from 15X to 25X.\r\n\r\nOne of the greatest advantages of an AR is rapid fire once a target is acquired. Using the T3 reticle, you can range, hold and get solid hits on 12-inch targets out to 700 yards pretty easily without touching your scope\u2019s knobs. You simply find your target, range it, hold for elevation and wind, and press the trigger. Doing so on steel from 100 to 600 yards, the Leupold Mark 8 was dead on and consistent. Holding at 500 yards, I was able to center 10 rounds on the steel target about as fast as I could pull the trigger.\r\n\r\nThen I turned the knobs and confirmed the adjustments at the same ranges using a Kestrel 4500 Applied Ballistics<\/a> meter. Each range saw five rounds on steel. Turning the knob back to zero, the reticle saw the same results. Running a couple of PRS-style courses, the adjustments proved equally effective either holding over or dialing the scope in. Once complete, the knob was returned to zero and checked; there was no change at 100 yards. The reticle subtends accurately, and the knobs were precise and accurate.\r\n\r\nI also performed three cold-bore shots over three days. Day one was on a 12-by-16-inch target at 1,000 yards. The Kestrel provided the hold for the day\u2019s conditions. The solution was dialed in and fired, resulting in a first-round hit followed by three more shots on target in a moderate wind. On the second day, the range was 500 yards on a 12-inch target. Holding left, there was another first-round hit. Finally, I targeted a 1,300-yard IPSC steel target on a windy day with gusts in the 20 mph range. The elevation was dead on, but it took me three rounds to get on the steel with the wind, before three more shots consistently hit the target. I\u2019m just not sure it gets any better for a scope in real-world conditions.\r\n
Elite Leupold Mark 8<\/b><\/h3>\r\nThe Leupold Mark 8 M5C2 is a top-tier scope that would make a great choice if you\u2019re going to really stretch out and go the distance. If you don\u2019t need as much magnification, Leupold\u2019s Mark 6 scopes are likely a better choice. But this particular model was a pleasure to use. It has many of the features I look for in an optic.\r\n\r\nIf there is an issue for some, it will be the 35mm tube, which limits your ring choices. Most ring manufacturers make 35mm sets, but they cost more. Then again, putting this scope in anything but the best set of rings is ridiculous, so it comes with the territory. Ring choice is critical, but it\u2019s just one of a few important choices.\r\n\r\nFor more on this high-quality riflescope, visit leupold.com<\/a>.\r\n\r\n
