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randy wrote:How necessary is a scope for say, one in .357 Mag to be used as a companion piece to a S&W Model 19 for plinking/fun and occasional truck gun for self defense use in areas with "assault weapon" legal issues?
i.e. not a hunting piece (except in SHTF type situations).
Honestly, I wouldn't put a scope on a lever gun. When The Boss had a Marlin .357, she took the scope off of it, saying that it got in the way. Says she doesn't feel like she's handicapped without it.
Granted, she's engaging targets that are within pistol range, anyway. Guess it really depends on how far you want to push the envelope.
But there ain't many troubles that a man caint fix, with seven hundred dollars and a thirty ought six." Lindy Cooper Wisdom
I won't go into specific brands for the hardware, since that is up to you as far as test driving and finding what is comfortable for you. As for caliber, I say .357M. With ammo getting so scarce and expensive, I've even thought lately about downsizing to one "grown up" caliber (besides 12 gauge and .22LR) and making it .357M. Then, getting set up for reloading. My one exception would be the CCW piece, which is now a Springfield XDS. I already have plenty of .45acp, though, so that is no worry.
EDIT: +1 on no scope. Personal preference. Never liked them, probably never will.
There must be an end to this intimidation by those who come to this great country, but reject its culture.
I love me some peep sights. Levers are a bit harder to keep a stock weld on, for obvious reasons, so a blade/notch system works well. Get high vis for the front if you plan on hunting.