Quote Originally Posted by Single Six
Nice! How much difference would you say optics make?
Depends on what kind of shooting you will be doing. Lots of cheap scopes can hold zero just fine, especially with the low recoil of a .223. With price comes clarity. If you are going to be shooting with in 100 yards during the day at a range a low end scope will be fine. If you are looking to shoot long range, you will want more magnification and better clarity. If you will be hunting and want to take advantage of low light conditions, clarity and the scopes ability to gather light will be a big advantage.

For quality scopes, look into Redfield and Vortex Diamondback scopes. At right around $150 - $200 you get a great scope that will compete with many "high end" scopes. Leupold is a good line of scopes (Redfield is made by Leupold).

When researching scopes, pay attention to the warranty. Quality manufacturers will offer a lifetime, no questions asked, warranty.