Need some help,

Need optics of some kind for my new 45/70 encore it will be used for bear hunting over bait only. Not sure what to do do I buy a low power scope, red dot or do I buy a peep sight. I don't want to spend more than $200.00. From what I know about bear hunting over bait most bears hit the bait in the last hour of light.
Thanks in advance

I would get a quality low powered scope. The shots are close & the cover is thick. You need to be on stand and ready to the last minute of legal shooting time. With my current line-up I'd mount my vari-x-III 1.75-6 Leupold, but they are usually about $300+ used. How about a Burris FF 2-7, or Nikon Monarch of the same power? There is no reason to rush the shot over bait. Just be mindful of any breezes, set up accordingly & have the shot placement figured out ahead of time.

Thanks Muskrat30!

Do I need to worry about the objective or is a 32mm or 28 ok?

I don't remember the formula that covers useful objective size. I'd just try to get a mid to a little upper end quality lower powered scope for bears over bait.

You could spend $1,000 on a scope & it's not going to change the outcome of the hunt compared to a lower priced option. I like to talk gear as much as the next guy but you can end up 'all hat & no saddle', so to speak.

With a low power scope 28 is more than enough. I think the main reason companies offer large objectives is because so many shooters always think bigger is better. I've used 1-4X 20 MM objective scopes that were bright as could be, you don't need huge objectives to get a bright scope.

This scope is a smidgen over your budget at $209 but it is an excellent scope that will suit your needs very well


Bushnell Elite 2-7X

thanks guys!

You could look at a used VXII 2-7x33, as it would be around what you are looking to spend. You could also check into Weavers 1-3x20 or 2.5-7x32, both would be just under what you are looking to spend. These Weavers have the same glass as Bushnells 4200 line but at a little lower price. If you have to stay at $200 and didn't want to go used, Weaver would be where I would look first. I think I'm starting to sound like 2much here now, huh?

Two others that would be great, would be the VX3 1.75-6x32 or Sighrons Big Sky 1.25-5x20. But even used, both would be over your budget by $100, give or take some. Good luck!