Author Topic: Optics for 45/70 Encore  (Read 1040 times)

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Offline rebAL

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Optics for 45/70 Encore
« on: January 28, 2009, 07:24:14 AM »
I can't decide.  Currently I have a 3-9X that whacks me on the forehead so I know I need to make a change.  Since 45/70 is short range caliber I don't figure I need lots of magnification, and I know I need a lot of eye-relief whatever I get.  I was also thinking about red dot type optic or those large ghost ring type sights for quick target acquision.  I will be using the rifle for deer & bear mostly in deep woods.  Please offer pros & cons of my options.  Thanks.   

Offline teddy12b

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #1 on: January 28, 2009, 07:55:34 AM »
I'd give some consideration to the nikon omega bdc 250 series of muzzleloader scopes if you want some serious eye relief.  I put one on my rifle before last season and I was amazed at how well it did at the range.  They're meant for abuse and are very clear.  I have mine on an encore.

Offline hankster76

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #2 on: January 28, 2009, 08:23:32 AM »
I use a 1.75 - 4 power bushnell trophy shotgun scope on mine. Mine is a Katahdin carbine so th 4 is more that enough magnification and the 1.75 makes a great both eyes open quick accusition wide field of view option.

Offline readr1

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #3 on: February 02, 2009, 05:42:19 PM »
I just mounted and sighted in a Vortex StrikeFire red-dot on my 45-70.  I had no trouble ringing the 12" plate at around 140-150 yards. 

Offline surveyor47

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #4 on: February 04, 2009, 05:30:19 AM »
Why dont you try a Williams Foolproof Receiver Sight and a Williams Firesight Front Sight?  This is a really fun setup.

Offline Swampman

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #5 on: February 04, 2009, 05:32:44 AM »
The Nikon Prostaff 2-7X32 would be a good choice.  It has lots of eye relief.  I also really like the Bushnell 1.5-4.5X32.
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Offline Lone Star

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #6 on: February 04, 2009, 12:46:11 PM »
My .45-70 Contender carbine has a Leupold 2.5 power.  Mucho eye relief, light weight and small size, bright optics and enough magnification for any reasonable .45-70 application.  My longest .45-70 kill was 225 yards with a 3X scope - a 2.5 would be fine.


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Offline Tn Jim

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #7 on: February 08, 2009, 06:32:53 PM »
I use a Simmons 4X Pro Diamond shotgun scope. Plenty of eye relief and about half the size and weight of a 3-9 rifle scope.
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Offline rebAL

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #8 on: May 12, 2009, 06:55:48 AM »
Thanks for all the feedback.  I finally decided on a Bushnell banner 1.75-4X32 "Slug gun" circle-X scope with 6" eye relief.  I have it mounted on traditional Weaver base & medium height rings.  $74. + shipping from D&R.  I just sighted it in and I'm happy!

Offline Capt Gary

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #9 on: May 12, 2009, 01:26:03 PM »
Mounted a Leupold Vari X III 1.5 X 5 on my 45/70 Katahdin. Seems to work out fine. Have not shot it yet. Hope to hit the range next week.

Good luck.

Keep us posted on how it works out.

Offline troy_mclure

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #10 on: May 13, 2009, 05:12:45 AM »
i put on a Simmons trophy 2.5-5x40 shot gun scope, and a Talley 1 peice mount. its great, kinda weired seeing the bbl in the scope tho. lol

Offline Varmint Hunter

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Re: Optics for 45/70 Encore
« Reply #11 on: May 14, 2009, 02:23:00 PM »
I second the vote for a Leupold Vari X III 1.5 X 5. I use a 30mm tube with ill. reticle. The ill. reticle works GREAT on black bears where the traditional black crosshairs just diappear.