When it comes to upgrading your Savage Model 16 for target shooting, one of the most important decisions is selecting the right scope. For shooters on a budget, finding a high-quality yet affordable scope can seem daunting. Fortunately, there are several excellent budget-friendly scopes that will enhance your shooting accuracy without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll explore the best scopes that are perfect for your Savage Model 16, focusing on their affordability and performance for target shooting.
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 is a popular choice for budget-conscious target shooters. With its Dead-Hold BDC reticle, it allows for fast and easy adjustments, making it ideal for hunting or precision target shooting. The 3-9x magnification range provides versatility, ensuring you're well-equipped for a variety of distances.
Key Features:
Pros:
Very clear glass quality. Generous eye relief for safety. Cons:
Limited to 9x magnification, which may not be ideal for long-range shooting. Verdict: The Vortex Crossfire II is a fantastic all-around scope for shooters who want excellent performance without spending too much.
2. Athlon Optics Talos 6-24x50 Second Focal Plane
For shooters looking for a higher magnification range, the Athlon Optics Talos 6-24x50 Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope is a great choice. This scope provides excellent clarity and a wide magnification range, making it perfect for medium to long-range shooting.
Key Features:
Pros:
Ideal for long-range target shooting. Affordable price for its performance. Cons:
Slightly heavier, which may affect balance. Verdict: For target shooters looking to push their Savage Model 16 to longer distances, the Athlon Optics Talos is an excellent choice at an affordable price.
3. Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40
Burris is a trusted brand in the optics world, and the Fullfield II 3-9x40 offers a fantastic balance between price and performance. With the Ballistic Plex reticle, this scope helps shooters estimate holdovers for different ranges, making it perfect for those who want consistent, reliable performance for target shooting.
Key Features:
Pros:
Clear, crisp glass for the price. Lightweight and easy to mount. Ballistic reticle for accurate range estimation. Cons:
Limited to lower magnification, which might not suit long-range shots. Verdict: The Burris Fullfield II is perfect for shooters who want a simple, no-frills scope that delivers on performance without a hefty price tag.
4. Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40
The Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 is another excellent choice for shooters on a budget. It provides a solid 4-12x magnification range, making it versatile enough for both short and long-range shooting. The EBR-2C reticle offers precise holdovers, while the fully multi-coated lenses ensure excellent light transmission.
Key Features:
Pros:
Adjustable magnification range for various shooting distances. Cons:
The fixed parallax may not be ideal for precision at all ranges. Verdict: The Vortex Diamondback is perfect for shooters who want flexibility and reliability for both short and long-range target shooting.
5. Primary Arms SLx 3-18x50mm FFP
For those who want a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope at an affordable price, the Primary Arms SLx 3-18x50mm FFP is a great option. The ACSS reticle provides intuitive holdovers for precise shooting, and the 3-18x magnification range is perfect for those who want versatility without sacrificing optical quality.
Key Features:
Pros:
FFP reticle for consistent accuracy at all magnifications. ACSS HUD reticle helps with fast range estimation. Excellent tracking and clarity. Cons:
A bit heavier than other options. Verdict: The Primary Arms SLx offers professional-grade features at a very competitive price, making it ideal for target shooters who need both accuracy and versatility.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Savage Model 16 with a budget-friendly scope doesn't mean compromising on quality. Whether you're looking for a traditional 3-9x scope or a more powerful 6-24x model, there are plenty of great options available. The Vortex Optics Crossfire II, Athlon Optics Talos, Burris Fullfield II, Vortex Diamondback, and Primary Arms SLx all offer fantastic performance without breaking the bank. Choose the one that best suits your shooting style, and get ready to enjoy your target shooting experience to the fullest!