Inexpensive long range scopes

[encorehunter]

I have been playing with this idea for a few years now. I have had a Rem 700 .308 built, and now I picked up an Savage 12LRP rifle in .260 Remington. I have my vx7 3.5-14 on the .308, but now I am needing a scope for the .260.

As of right now, Nightforce is out of the question, unless I skip this season of shooting and wait for next year. I have looked up several scopes and done about as much reading as I can. It boils down to a few scopes, with average prices.

SWFA SS 10x or 12x $300
Leupold 10x (used) $400

Vortex 6.5-20x44 $300
Vortex HS LR 4-16x44 $400

I have been really leaning towards the vortex HS because of the reviews. I like the power range and it will work great on another rifle when I am able to replace it. Coming in at 21 0z, it won't take much shaving on my rifle to keep it under 12 lbs, which is what I am hoping for. I am trying to get set up for the sporting rifle match and the Pueblo prairie dog match. The 1K match will also be shot once in a while.

Max range I am looking at is 1000-1200, which it at the edge of capabilities of the .260. I may rebarrel another 700 to 6.5-06 later to push the 1500yd, but that is later.

I would rather spend a little now and get to play and learn. I hate the idea of putting it off another year. I know I have heard a couple people mention they have competed in this, so I would love to hear your thoughts.