Scope question
 

I bought a used M1A several years ago in very good shape. The scope is a Springfield Sporter model 3x9x56 made in Japan with integral range finder to 1000 (meters/yards?).

I can get holes to touch at 100 yards using 168 grain Federal match. My question to my shame is this, how does one use the bullet drop compensator on this scope and is the correct bullet weight 168 or 174 grain?

I'm sure I have more rifle than I have skill but I was hoping someone could help me with my ignorance concerning the scope. Thanks.

Re: Scope question
 

A bullet drop compensater is not made for a specific caliber, specific bullet weight, specific powder charge or specific barrel length so they are pretty rough estimates. You have to go out there and shoot it at several distances and take notes about which type of ammo does what.
I've never owned a 308 but I want one. my undertanding is the most accurate long range bullet weight for that caliber is 165 to 169 grains in boat tail configuration. Unfortunately bulk ammo is usually 150 grain.

I'm looking at a new Ruger bolt M77 VT heavy barrel in .308 for $529

Re: Scope question
 

Thanks Hoarder. Would you happen to know if you have to be full power on the scope to properly use the range finder or does it matter?

I've read a little about those Shepard scopes and it appeared they were caliber and bullet weight specific. I just assumed this one was kind of similar since it was on a military caliber weapon (M21?). That's what I get for assuming.

One more question if I may. Let's say your target is 500 yards out and you use the integral range finder to confirm. Would you then make a predetermined amount of clicks from the 100 yard zero or do you use the built in sight kind of like holding over? Sorry for all the questions. I'm not sure where to go to educate myself, if that's even possible:D .

I'll check back later, I've got some errands. Thanks.

Re: Scope question
 

On some scopes the range finder will only work at a certain power.

The best place to learn about this stuff is to join this forum:

http://www.opticstalk.com/

On BDC and similar reticles use those extra reference points as hold over. Not all BDC scopes have BDC reticles, I'm not familiar with yours. Some BDC scopes have a BDC dial with yardage increments.

Re: Scope question
 

:coolbeer: Ahh, thanks for the link.

Re: Scope question
 

For anyone who may be interested. I sent an email to Springfield Armory sales concerning my scope. I was sent a pdf attachment giving instructions on the use of their rangefinding scopes. I also got an 800 number to call if I had further questions. Since the scopes in the attachment were for 4-14x56 and mine was 3x9x56 I called. "Jon" told me my scope would work like the following since the reticles and level bubble were the same.

4-14x56 1st 2nd 3rd gen gov mod 7.62mm . The 3rd Gen has illuminating capabilties.

Springfield Gov. Model scopes are calibrated for .308 caliber 7.62mm cartridges with a 168 grain match bullet at 2550 fps. Also " The rangefinding characteristics are the same,no matter what the power setting." Each reticle has a corresponding number beside it, which represents the total meters in hundreds for that particular reticle-e.g. #3 is 300 meters.

So if you know the approximate measurement of your target you match it to the ranging reticle that fits, then use the corresponding cross hair and you are supposed to be on target. They also say "since some rifles will shoot the same round at varying velocities(up to +/_ 100fps than others), you should first become very familiar with your rifle by experimenting with all range settings so you know preciselywhat point of impact to expect at any range."

Oh yea, the main reticle is to be sighted at 200 meters there is no 100 meter reticle like I said in my earlier post.

They also had a 4-14x40 Tactical Government Model 5.56 This one has integral range finding reticles to 700 meter for .223 cartridge 69 grain match bullet at 3000 fps.