Scope for an XLR Marlin

[rollmyown]

I'm in the process of buying an XLR 30 30 marlin. I plan to scope it and use it for roo, deer and a general plinker. I'm thinking of a leupold VX11 2-7 x 33. Any suggestions on mounts? Any thoughts or suggestions on choice of scope? Most game will be ranging from 60 to 120 yards, but not usually over 150.

How good are these optics for dusk/dawn low light performance? Most game shooting will be in fading light.

rollmyown

[Heavy lead]

At those ranges it would be a fine scope as would the 1-4 power. I would suggest the heavy duplex reticle, much easier to pick up in dusk/dawn situations.

[45r]

I have a leupold 3x9 on my XLR and put it on 3x when hunting and turn it up if possible before a shot.I like the larger lenses when it gets dark.The 2x7 does look better and lighter.Can't go wrong with a leupold.I usually use burris signature rings to avoid scratching and twisting the scope from not having perfect ring alignment,holds better also.

[6pt-sika]

When I purchased a 336XLR in 30-30 they had just come out and Leupold had just released the new designations VX1 etc . So i purchased a Leupold VX1 3-9 for that rifle and it worked well !
Another fellow I know purchased one of the rifles and a Leupold VX1 in 2-7 and he was more then satisfied with his as well !

[6pt-sika]

The new Refield line put out by Leupold isn't a bad choice for the money !

I purchased a Redfield 3-9 about 2 months ago and have it on a 444 Marlin that I shoot 400 grain hot loads in and so far I've not had a bit of trouble .

A new Leupold VX1 3-9 is about $229 here and the Redfield in the same configuration is about $159 .

[Larry Gibson]

The 2x7 Leupold isn't a bad choice but at the ranges you mention I'd go with (already have actually) the 1.5x5 Leupold, especially for the ranges mentioned. I've a straight 2.5X on my 30-30 M94 AE Black Shadow with 24' barrel and am quite pleased with it across 300 yards.

Larry Gibson

[rollmyown]

I also looked at a nikon "shotgun scope". It is roughly the same design as the leupold 2 - 7, ie the same dimensions, magnification, reticle, weight and finnish (matte). It is half the cost. kind of makes it one to consider also. Never had any experience with this brand, but I understand it's got a good reputation. Nice outfit Larry.

I wish we had prices like the US. On many of our things prices are considerably more!

[btroj]

I really like my vx3 1.75-6 on my 1895 . Being able to go to 1.75 for close up work is nice and 6 is plenty for the range and working up loads.

[rollmyown]

Anyone using a Vortex Viper, or better still got a pic of one on their levergun? I've only read good stuff about this brand, as far as value for money goes.