Depending on how deep your pockets are, I would go for a Vortex or NightForce
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Experiences With Sierra3BDX and/or Sierra6BDX Rifle Scopes
I've narrowed my rifle scope search down to the two models, Sierra3BDX and Sierra6BDX. I read about the few improvements made from the Sierra3BDX with the newer model Sierra6BDX.
One of the main improvements stated was "better optics" without any further explanation, without a picture of the view through the Sierra6BDX reticle, and without a video of the view through it. Thus, it is impossible to determine if "better optics" is truly beneficial for the price increase. BTW, there are many examples of the Sierra3BDX optics online and people seem happy with the Sierra3BDX.
To those that own either model or have used either model, could you comment on your experiences?
One of the main improvements stated was "better optics" without any further explanation, without a picture of the view through the Sierra6BDX reticle, and without a video of the view through it. Thus, it is impossible to determine if "better optics" is truly beneficial for the price increase. BTW, there are many examples of the Sierra3BDX optics online and people seem happy with the Sierra3BDX.
To those that own either model or have used either model, could you comment on your experiences?
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I recently got a SIERRA3BDX 3.5-10x 42mm for my Winchester Model 70 .30-06, but haven't yet gotten it mounted so I can't comment other than I am happy with my purchase. I just figured that with my type of hunting in northern Georgia that I didn't need to reach out too many yards, plus I could do without the auto hold-over to save the dollars. I choose the Sig Sauer BDX over the Vortex and NightForce again because I am not reaching out in yardage and also because I am a bit lazy and don't want to have to calculate which line to use on the reticle - just let the Sig scope and rangefinder do all of the work.
Did you buy your scope at an LGS where you could have compared the models? If so, did you see a noticeable difference in the glass quality?I recently got a SIERRA3BDX 3.5-10x 42mm for my Winchester Model 70 .30-06, but haven't yet gotten it mounted so I can't comment other than I am happy with my purchase. I just figured that with my type of hunting in northern Georgia that I didn't need to reach out too many yards, plus I could do without the auto hold-over to save the dollars. I choose the Sig Sauer BDX over the Vortex and NightForce again because I am not reaching out in yardage and also because I am a bit lazy and don't want to have to calculate which line to use on the reticle - just let the Sig scope and rangefinder do all of the work.
I'm looking at putting the scope on my 30-06 as well. I am considering the model you bought, SIERRA3BDX 3.5-10x 42mm, and the Sierra6BDX 2-12x 44mm. I found the Sierra3BDX model on sale at various places and when compared to the Sierra6BDX price, it is about half the cost of the Sieera6BDX. While I like the Sierra6BDX's R-2 reticle and the 2-12 magnification, at this point I cannot justify the price increase unless there are huge benefits with the glass optics being so much better.
As a side note, since my current rings on the 30-06 are Weaver rings with Weaver bases, I initially was going to install new Weaver rings that had Weaver's original cross-lock ring design in 30mm High Rings (Buy Four Hole Skeleton Rings 30MM and More | Weaver Optics). Those more than likely would require some lapping and would require me to buy lapping tools.
Now, I am leaning toward Burris Signature Zee Rings (Weaver Style) (Signature Rings™ | Burris Optics scroll down the page) that will not require lapping due to the inserts and would be cheaper overall since I would not need to buy extra tools.
Have you decided on scope rings?
I only went online for comparisons and didn't go to the gun stores. My assumption was that most gun stores have limited selections based on what they are selling the most of and I wanted to choose from many options. And since I won't be shooting too far - 500 yard max effective range with .30-06 - as long as I choose a quality manufacturer/brand the glass quality would be adequate. The range is also a big reason for choosing the Sierra3 over the Sierra6; as you mentioned, I couldn't justify the additional cost for the hold-over and the potentially better glass unless I was shooting long distances.Did you buy your scope at an LGS where you could have compared the models? If so, did you see a noticeable difference in the glass quality?
I'm looking at putting the scope on my 30-06 as well. I am considering the model you bought, SIERRA3BDX 3.5-10x 42mm, and the Sierra6BDX 2-12x 44mm. I found the Sierra3BDX model on sale at various places and when compared to the Sierra6BDX price, it is about half the cost of the Sieera6BDX. While I like the Sierra6BDX's R-2 reticle and the 2-12 magnification, at this point I cannot justify the price increase unless there are huge benefits with the glass optics being so much better.
As a side note, since my current rings on the 30-06 are Weaver rings with Weaver bases, I initially was going to install new Weaver rings that had Weaver's original cross-lock ring design in 30mm High Rings (Buy Four Hole Skeleton Rings 30MM and More | Weaver Optics). Those more than likely would require some lapping and would require me to buy lapping tools.
Now, I am leaning toward Burris Signature Zee Rings (Weaver Style) (Signature Rings™ | Burris Optics scroll down the page) that will not require lapping due to the inserts and would be cheaper overall since I would not need to buy extra tools.
Have you decided on scope rings?
For the rings, I haven't yet decided, which is why I haven't yet had the scope mounted. I am leaning toward the Conetrol bases and rings because they look so nice - somewhat minimalist which is what I prefer. I just don't like the bigger, more bulky types with the screws showing. Although I have read good reviews on the Weaver designs. Conetrols cost a good bit though.
OK guys, I have both the 3 in a 4.5-15 and the 6 in a 6-18. I was curious enough after using a Burris Eliminator on a PD shoot last year to see if I could up my game with the Sig BDX. I got a good deal on the Sierra3 on a close out at Sportsman Warehouse using points and gift cards… The Sierra6 came from a major dealer. I put both on varmint rifles and the 3 was nice, clear and easy to use. The status reticle are as thick as the Burris Eliminator but have plenty of LED aim points. The 6 is better glass but where it shines is the status reticle is about half as thick as the 3 and there are many more LED aim points which should define a closer poa / poi. Both scopes can be used on small varmints with the nod going to the 6. If you would be happy with 14X then the 3 will work fine. If you like more power and like to shoot small targets, the 6 is worth the difference although at a substantial increase in price. I would be happy to answer any particular questions but I am new here and not sure when PM will be available for me...
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