[Sockfoot]

I'm saying all this to give you some context. I wouldn't skimp on bipods- it's Harris or bust for me (9-13 swivel with notches). I've never regretted going with simple, reliable glass & putting money into high quality components for the rest of the build. And for $300, you'll have a hard time finding a more reliable scope than the SWFA fixed powers. You can always bounce the scope onto another project later & upgrade the scope for this rifle, but you're likely to regret not going with Harris now.

Just my 2 cents…

Thanks for the advice! Could you elaborate on what makes them a cut above the rest? I see a lot of people say Harris is the end-all and also a lot of people saying *some* of the clones are quite nice, just  don't find much on the WHY.

[Sockfoot]

Bit of an update, have narrowed down the scope choice to either the SWFA SS 3-9x42mm FFP mil/mil or the Burris Veracity 2-10x42mm FFP MOA/MOA. Both seem to have nice quality, good turrets, and decent glass (good given the price). I think I am leaning towards the SS.

Read that 20MOA rails are more for the 800+ range, so I don't think I will be needing one of those. Both tubes are 30mm with plenty of play, so I think I should be fine.

Looking at either TMS or Shooter's Ridge for a bipod (Harris clones). Cost ~40-50 and allow me to spend a bit more on the glass. Wish I could ensure I would always be able to use a bench/rest, but I don't think that will really be the case so perhaps dropping the coin on those in the future, but for now the utility of the bipod wins out.

[Sockfoot]

Hi great rifle I have a .223 St/st varmint, I don't know if you can get Hawk scopes where you are but there a good scope for your budget

Will do some research, thanks!

I've been thinking about buying one of these myself.  I've got a 22-250 varmint model that I really like. 

A $500 scope is tough.  You might take a look at the Burris MTAC with the gen 2 mil-dot reticle.  I've got one of those on an AR that seems to work nicely. 

Do you have a bipod to prop the front end?  Those are nice to have. 

I don't have one picked out yet, not sure how that slipped my mind. Will do some research, any suggestions?