Scope power?

[Protocol]

After many hours of research I have in the market for a Vortex Viper BDC - Dead on scope, my question is I plan on using is to shoot targets and deer from 100 to 200 yards. My question is what power scope should I buy? I had my eye on the 4-12X40. It fits into my budget well.

[JCalhoun]

Sounds like a good choice for a double duty scope.

[Protocol]

thanks JCalhoun, I appreciate your incite

[olddav]

Can't speak to the scope your asking about but I have a Nikon in 4-12x40 and the 4-12 is nice when compared to 3-9. Nope sure if this is in any way clear.

[Protocol]

olddav, I understand exactly, thanks

[Protocol]

to shoot 100 to 200 yards would a 0moa be the proper mount?

[JTCrl]

Yes, it would.

[D.ID]

If You plan on (some day) reaching out past 500 and using scope turrets to do it: get the 20moa base to start with, it will not hurt a thing and you'll have it if the day comes you need it. Chances are with a 65moa scope you could go 1000 yards even without a canted base.......... Depending on caliber, load and conditions.
If you have no intension of going long range: there is no need for a canted base and the 0moa would be the choice.

[Protocol]

Thanks, that's great advice and exactly what I needed to learn

[Maxxwell86]

Remember to shoot the recommended loads from the scope manual or the BDC markings will not match the range you are actually shooting at. If you shoot recommended loads the BDC will easily go beyond the ranges you mentioned for that occasional long shot.

[savman]

Look at Vortex's website. They have a ballistics calculator that can be used for all the reticles they offer. I have the Viper HS 4x16-44 and their numbers are real close.

[john800]

check midway they had some vortex optics on sale