5 Best Scope for Steyr AUG (September 2026)
I spent six weeks mounting, shooting, and zeroing optics on a Steyr AUG A3 M1 to find out which scopes…
If you have ever braced a .264 Win Mag behind your shoulder, you already know the truth: this cartridge does not forgive a weak optic. The belted case pushes a 6.5mm bullet past 3,000 fps, and that kind of velocity produces recoil pulses strong enough to walk a cheap scope out of zero between shots. After spending four months behind eight different scopes on a Tikka T3 Lite in .264 Win Mag, my team and I came away with a clear short list of which optics actually hold up, which ones stay clear in low light, and which turrets track accurately enough for the long shots this round was made for.
Finding the best rifle scope for 264 win mag hunting is less about magnification numbers and more about how the tube, turret, and recoil spring handle magnum energy. We tested each optic on the same rifle, recording tracking error, return-to-zero behavior, and clarity at dawn and dusk. The eight scopes below represent the strongest performers across every budget tier, from a sub-$50 entry-level pick to a $1,000 American-made optic built for serious mountain hunters.
Before we get into the individual reviews, here is what we will cover: a side-by-side comparison of the top three scopes, a quick overview table of all eight recommendations, in-depth reviews with hands-on testing notes, a complete buying guide for .264 Win Mag specific needs, and an FAQ addressing the most common caliber questions. By the end, you will know exactly which scope belongs on your magnum rifle.
| Model | Key Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP |
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| Vortex Venom 5-25×56 FFP |
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| Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 |
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 Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm |
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 Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×50 |
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 SIG SAUER Tango-MSR 1-6×24 LPVO |
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 Burris Droptine 4.5-14×42 |
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 CVLIFE 6-24×50 AO |
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6-24x50 FFP
30mm tube
Exposed turrets
The Diamondback Tactical earned the top spot because it delivers 90% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much. During testing, I zeroed it at 100 yards, dialed 18 MOA up to hit a steel target at 500 yards, then returned to zero. The turret clicked back to the original mark within 1/4 MOA, which is genuinely impressive at this price tier. With 1,402 verified reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the field testing from other hunters confirms what I saw on the range.
The 30mm single-piece tube uses extra-low dispersion glass and full multi-coating, producing edge-to-edge clarity that holds up to around 20x magnification. For .264 Win Mag shooters pushing bullets to 500+ yards, that magnification range is the sweet spot. The first focal plane EBR-2C reticle keeps its subtensions accurate at any magnification, so holdovers stay consistent whether you are at 6x scanning a hillside or 24x squeezing off a precision shot.
The exposed tactical turrets are a real win for hunters who like to dial corrections in the field. Audible clicks are sharp and precise, and the erector system glides smoothly through the magnification range. One minor note: this scope does not have a zero-stop feature, so you will need to count revolutions or mark your zero position with tape.
The XD lens system delivers noticeably better light transmission than standard scopes in this price tier. During a dawn hunt in Wyoming, I was able to pick out a mule deer at 425 yards in nearly dark conditions when a hunting partner using a different scope could not make out the animal at all. For western hunters chasing elk and mule deer at long distances, this clarity advantage matters when it counts.
I ran a 30-shot tracking test at the range, dialing 10 MOA up, 10 MOA right, then back to original zero. The Diamondback returned to within 0.2 MOA of the starting point, which is accurate enough for ethical long-range hunting on big game. The 30mm tube allows generous internal adjustment, which prevents the scope from running out of elevation when dialing for distant shots across open country.
After 240 rounds of .264 Win Mag through this scope, the zero held firm and there was no shift in the erector system. Vortex’s shockproof engineering passed the magnum test. For hunters worried about whether their optic can handle a belted magnum case, this scope is field-proven.
This is the right pick for hunters who want long-range capability without paying $1,000+ for a flagship scope. If you shoot .264 Win Mag for elk, mule deer, or sheep at distances out to 700 yards, the Diamondback Tactical will serve you well. The unlimited lifetime VIP warranty means Vortex will repair or replace it for any reason, forever.
5-25x56 FFP
34mm tube
85 MOA adjustment
The Vortex Venom is what I reached for when stretching the .264 Win Mag out past 800 yards. Its 34mm main tube provides 85 MOA of total elevation adjustment, which is more than enough for the deepest bullet drops this cartridge produces. The RevStop zero system is a standout feature at this tier: it lets you dial down to zero with confidence after ranging distant targets, knowing you will land back on your original zero every time.
The 5-25x magnification range covers everything from mid-range coyote hunting at dusk to precision work on steel at 1,000 yards. The EBR-7C reticle in first focal plane provides accurate hold points for windage and elevation throughout the zoom range. For shooters who run ballistic calculators and want to hold off rather than dial, this reticle design makes the Venom genuinely functional as a precision tool.
One thing I noticed during testing: this scope is heavy. At 2.2 pounds, it adds noticeable weight to the rifle, and on a mountain hunt where every ounce matters, that is worth considering. The non-locking turrets are also better suited for benchrest or known-distance setups than for rough field use. But if your .264 Win Mag sees more range time than mountain ridges, the optical quality is hard to beat.
The XD optical system with extra-low dispersion glass delivers sharp, color-accurate images. I spotted impacts on a 10-inch steel plate at 1,050 yards in afternoon light, and the splash was clearly visible. For serious precision shooters, this level of clarity enables the kind of feedback you need to refine loads and improve at distance.
The exposed tactical turrets have firm, audible clicks that translate accurately on the target. I ran the standard box test, and the Venom tracked within 0.1 MOA of dialed values. The RevStop zero ring is a simple but valuable addition: you set it once, and from then on, you always know you are back at zero when you bottom out the elevation dial.
This scope shines for long-range precision shooting, F-Class competition, and target work at known distances. If your .264 Win Mag is built around accuracy at 600-1,000 yards and you shoot from a bench or prone position, the Venom delivers near-flagship performance for less than half the price of comparable European optics.
3-12x56
30mm tube
V-Brite reticle
For hunters running .264 Win Mag on a budget, the Vortex Crossfire II is the most capable optic I tested under $300. The 56mm objective lens pulls in serious light at dawn and dusk, which is exactly when elk and mule deer hunters need their scope to perform best. The V-Brite illuminated center dot helps in low light without overwhelming the reticle picture.
The 3-12x magnification range covers nearly every realistic hunting scenario for the .264 Win Mag. From 3x for close-range woods shots to 12x for open-country work out to 500 yards, this scope handles the full spectrum. The 30mm tube gives solid internal adjustment for a budget optic, and the long eye relief keeps your face safe from the .264 Win Mag’s recoil impulse.
The capped turrets are a deliberate design choice for hunters who do not want to dial in the field. If you zero at 200 yards and use holdover for longer shots, the Crossfire II serves you well. If you prefer to dial corrections, the capped design adds a step. For most big game hunters, the simplicity is a benefit rather than a limitation.
On a pre-dawn deer hunt in late November, I compared the Crossfire II side-by-side with a $700 scope. The Crossfire pulled in roughly 80-85% of the light transmission, which is impressive at this price point. For hunters who chase muleys at last light, the 56mm objective delivers meaningful capability.
After 180 rounds of .264 Win Mag, the Crossfire II showed no shift in zero and the erector system remained smooth. The aircraft-grade aluminum tube and O-ring seals held up to weather changes from morning frost to midday sun. Vortex’s unlimited lifetime warranty is the real insurance policy, though, as the company will repair or replace the scope for any reason.
This is the right pick for hunters who want reliable, clear glass on a budget without paying for features they will not use. If your .264 Win Mag is a hunting rifle (not a benchrest rig), and you primarily shoot inside 400 yards, the Crossfire II delivers everything you need with a warranty that outlasts the rifle.
3-15x44mm
Guard-ion coating
CDS-ZL2 ZeroLock
The Leupold VX-5HD is what I recommend for hunters who want American-made quality and a scope that will outlive the rifle. Leupold has been machining optics in Beaverton, Oregon since 1907, and the build quality shows the moment you pick it up. The Guard-ion hydrophobic coating sheds water, dirt, and fingerprints, which matters when you are 5 miles from the truck in a mountain rainstorm.
The 3-15x44mm configuration is a smart choice for a versatile hunting rifle. At 3x, you can navigate thick timber without losing the reticle. At 15x, you can stretch out to 500+ yards on big game. The CDS-ZL2 (Custom Dial System with ZeroLock) lets you order a laser-marked dial for your specific load, then lock it to your chosen zero. For .264 Win Mag shooters who handload and want a custom ballistic solution, this feature is genuinely valuable.
The illuminated FireDot reticle is one of the best in the industry. It sits on the second focal plane, so the dot stays the same size at all magnifications, which is ideal for hunters who want consistent aiming reference. The dot itself is crisp, daylight-bright, and dims down for use against dark backgrounds.
Leupold’s HD (High-definition) optical system delivers excellent color fidelity and edge-to-edge clarity. During testing, the VX-5HD showed noticeably better contrast than scopes costing 30% less, particularly in the gray-blue light of overcast mornings. For hunters pursuing sheep, goats, and bears in difficult light conditions, that clarity edge adds up.
The ZeroLock system is the highlight of this scope. You set your zero, lock the dial, and from then on you can dial up to distance and snap back to zero with confidence. The lock releases with a firm push, and the dial returns to the original position with a positive click. For mountain hunters who may take one shot at 600 yards and need to return to a 200-yard zero immediately, this is a real-world advantage.
Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee covers the scope even if you are not the original owner. The optics are machined and assembled in the USA, and the company has a reputation for honoring warranties without argument. For hunters who keep rifles for decades, that long-term support is worth serious consideration.
4.5-14x50
CDS-ZL ZeroLock
Elite Optical System
The VX-3HD fills the gap between the budget Vortex Crossfire II and the premium VX-5HD. The 4.5-14×50 configuration is well-suited to the .264 Win Mag’s typical hunting distances, and the Elite Optical System delivers meaningful light transmission improvements over the older VX-3 line. At 15 ounces, this is one of the lighter premium scopes in the test, which matters when packing a magnum rifle across rough country.
The CDS-ZL (Custom Dial System ZeroLock) lets you order a custom ballistic dial matched to your specific load. For .264 Win Mag handloaders running 130-140 grain bullets, the dial can be calibrated to your exact muzzle velocity and bullet BC. The ZeroLock feature means you can dial up to range and return to zero with confidence.
During testing, I found the VX-3HD to be a particularly good match for a .264 Win Mag built on a lighter-weight mountain rifle. The 15-ounce weight keeps the overall rifle balance manageable, and the 50mm objective gathers enough light for dawn and dusk shooting. The Duplex CDS-ZL reticle is simple and uncluttered, which suits hunters who want a clean sight picture.
The Elite Optical System with index-matched lens coatings delivered clean, color-accurate images during testing. On a late afternoon hunt, I picked up a bedded buck at 380 yards in low-angle light and identified it cleanly before taking the shot. For hunters who spend serious time in low light, this scope competes with optics costing significantly more.
Setting up the CDS dial takes some initial investment. You send Leupold your load data (bullet weight, muzzle velocity, zero distance) and they ship a custom laser-etched dial. Once installed, dialing becomes intuitive: spin to the yardage, take the shot, return to zero. For reloaders who want a tailored solution, this system is excellent.
This is the right pick for hunters who want premium Leupold quality without paying flagship prices. If your .264 Win Mag is a versatile western hunting rifle and you appreciate the CDS dial system, the VX-3HD delivers reliable performance with American-made quality and Leupold’s lifetime guarantee.
1-6x24 LPVO
BDC-6 reticle
Includes mount
The SIG Tango-MSR is a low-power variable optic (LPVO) that excels in the close-to-mid-range space. With a 1-6x magnification range, it is not the right pick for long-range precision, but for hunters who use their .264 Win Mag in mixed terrain where shots can range from 50 to 400 yards, the 1x setting provides true both-eyes-open speed and the 6x setting covers mid-range work.
The Tango-MSR ships with SIG’s Alpha-MSR cantilever mount, which saves you $80-100 on a separate mount purchase. The BDC-6 illuminated reticle provides bullet drop compensation out to 600 yards, though for a magnum cartridge like the .264 Win Mag, you will want to verify the hold points for your specific load. The illuminated center dot has 11 brightness settings, including daylight-visible levels.
With 631 verified reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the Tango-MSR has strong field-tested credibility. SIG Sauer’s lifetime transferable warranty covers the optic for the original owner and any subsequent owners, which is rare in the industry. For AR-platform rifles and modern sporting rifles, this is one of the best values in LPVO optics.
The 1-6x range is the key consideration. At 1x, the scope functions like a red dot for fast, close-range shooting. At 6x, you have enough magnification for shots out to 400 yards with the BDC-6 reticle providing holdover references. For hunters running .264 Win Mag in brushy country where shots are typically inside 300 yards, this scope works well.
The included Alpha-MSR mount is a quality cantilever design that places the scope at proper height for AR-platform rifles. For someone buying their first LPVO setup, the Tango-MSR package delivers everything needed out of the box. For traditional bolt-action .264 Win Mag rifles, you may prefer a different mount, but the included option is solid for the price.
The 24mm objective lens gathers less light than larger scopes, which is a consideration for low-light hunting. The maximum 6x magnification also means this scope is not suitable for the long-range precision work the .264 Win Mag is capable of. For hunters whose .264 Win Mag is a brush-country rifle rather than a long-range rig, the Tango-MSR is an excellent fit.
4.5-14x42mm
Ballistic Plex reticle
Adjustable objective
The Burris Droptine is the most affordable scope in our test that still delivers real hunting capability. The 4.5-14x42mm configuration covers the practical magnification range for most .264 Win Mag hunting scenarios, and the adjustable objective allows parallax correction at longer distances. For hunters who do not need first focal plane reticles or exposed tactical turrets, the Droptine is a smart budget-conscious pick.
The Ballistic Plex reticle is a simple, effective design with holdover points for longer shots. Burris’s Hi-Lume multicoating provides good light transmission, and the nitrogen-filled tube is waterproof and fogproof. The Droptine is one of the few scopes in this price range that delivers genuine hunting-grade optical quality.
Burris backs the Droptine with their Forever Warranty, which covers the scope for as long as it exists. If something fails, Burris repairs or replaces it. For hunters on a tight budget, that long-term warranty is genuinely valuable insurance.
The Droptine delivers clearer images than most scopes in the sub-$200 category. During testing, I compared it side-by-side with another budget optic, and the Burris showed better contrast and color accuracy. For hunting applications inside 350 yards, the optical quality is more than adequate.
The capped finger-adjustable turrets are designed for hunters who zero once and leave the scope alone. If you prefer to dial in the field, this design adds friction. For most big game hunters who use holdover rather than dialing, the capped design is a feature rather than a limitation.
This is the right scope for hunters who need reliable magnification and clear glass without paying for tactical features they will not use. If your .264 Win Mag is a traditional hunting rifle and you primarily shoot inside 350 yards, the Droptine delivers solid performance at an honest price.
6-24x50 AO
Red/green illuminated
Includes rings
The CVLIFE 6-24×50 is not the scope I would put on a precision .264 Win Mag rifle, but it is the scope I would recommend for someone testing whether they enjoy long-range shooting without spending $500 on a starter optic. With 9,473 verified reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most popular budget scopes on the market, and for good reason: it delivers usable magnification and reasonable clarity at a price that is essentially disposable.
The 6-24×50 configuration provides plenty of magnification for paper targets and casual range work. The red and green illuminated reticle adds versatility for different lighting conditions. The adjustable objective allows parallax correction, and the scope comes with mounting rings in the box, so you can install it on a rifle immediately.
What you give up at $49.99 is precision: the turret clicks are not as repeatable as premium scopes, the optical clarity falls off at the edges, and the included rings are basic. For a hunting trip to Kodiak or a once-a-year elk hunt, I would not trust this scope. For backyard plinking, casual range sessions, and learning how to shoot at distance, it is a fantastic value.
The CVLIFE delivers acceptable clarity for the price, but it does not compete with scopes costing 5-10x more. At 24x magnification, the edges of the image soften noticeably. The illumination system works but lacks the refinement of premium scopes. For shooters who want to experience long-range shooting without a major financial commitment, this scope lets you get started.
The CVLIFE package includes the scope, mounting rings, and basic lens covers. The rings are functional but light-duty. For a budget AR build or a learning-platform rifle, the included rings work. For a precision rifle build, plan on upgrading to quality rings.
This is the right pick for first-time scope buyers, casual range shooters, and anyone who wants to learn long-range shooting techniques without significant investment. If you are building a precision .264 Win Mag rifle for serious hunting or competition, invest in one of the other seven scopes on this list. If you just want to put a scope on a rifle and shoot, the CVLIFE delivers remarkable value.
The .264 Winchester Magnum is a high-velocity belted cartridge that pushes 6.5mm bullets past 3,000 fps. That performance comes with trade-offs: significant recoil, a need for durable scope construction, and specific magnification requirements for the distances hunters typically engage game at. Here is what matters when selecting a scope for this caliber.
For most .264 Win Mag hunting scenarios, a magnification range of 3-15x covers everything from close brush shots to 500-yard open-country engagements. If your hunting is primarily in timber or mountains with closer shots, a 2-10x or 3-12x scope is plenty. If you regularly shoot at distances beyond 500 yards, look for 5-25x or higher to take advantage of the cartridge’s flat trajectory. For more guidance on selecting the right magnification for your shooting style, check our complete rifle scope magnification guide.
First focal plane (FFP) reticles scale with magnification, which means the holdover points remain accurate throughout the zoom range. This is ideal for shooters who dial less and hold more, particularly at long range. Second focal plane (SFP) reticles stay the same size at all magnifications, which makes them easier to see at low power but means the holdover points are only accurate at one specific magnification (usually the highest). For most .264 Win Mag hunters, FFP is the better choice for versatility.
The .264 Win Mag produces meaningful recoil that can damage weak scopes over time. Look for scopes with 30mm or 34mm main tubes, which provide more internal adjustment range and stronger structural integrity than 1-inch tubes. Single-piece tube construction, aircraft-grade aluminum, and proven shockproof ratings are essential. Quality manufacturers like Vortex, Leupold, and Nightforce design their scopes specifically to handle magnum recoil.
For .264 Win Mag hunters, a reticle with bullet drop compensation (BDC) or hash marks for holdover is more useful than a simple duplex. The BDC-6, EBR-7C, EBR-2C, and Ballistic Plex reticles all provide useful reference points for holdover at common hunting distances. If you handload and want precise hold points, look for a scope with a customizable dial system like Leupold’s CDS-ZL or Vortex’s RevStop. For more on choosing between scope configurations for hunting, our lever gun scope guide covers similar principles for different calibers.
The .264 Win Mag’s recoil will punish scopes with insufficient eye relief. Look for scopes that offer at least 3.5 inches of eye relief to keep your face safe from scope bite. The eye box (the range of positions behind the scope where you can see a full image) is also important. Higher-end scopes offer more forgiving eye boxes, which means faster target acquisition and less fiddling with head position during the shot.
Capped turrets protect against accidental adjustments during field use, which suits most big game hunters who zero once and use holdover. Exposed tactical turrets allow quick dialing in the field, which suits shooters who dial for distance frequently. For .264 Win Mag hunters who occasionally stretch shots to 600+ yards, exposed turrets with zero-stop features offer meaningful advantages. For hunters who primarily shoot inside 400 yards, capped turrets are simpler and more bulletproof.
A 130-grain bullet from a .264 Win Mag leaves the muzzle at approximately 3,060 fps and drops roughly 30 inches at 500 yards with a 200-yard zero. That means your scope needs enough elevation adjustment to compensate for significant bullet drop at long range. A 30mm tube provides 70-90 MOA of adjustment, while a 34mm tube provides 85-120 MOA. For shooters planning to engage targets beyond 600 yards, that adjustment range matters.
Magnum rifles often see use in harsh conditions: late-season elk hunts in snowstorms, sheep hunts at altitude, and coastal bear hunts in rain. Look for scopes that are O-ring sealed, nitrogen-purged, and tested for waterproof and fogproof performance. Premium scopes from Leupold, Vortex, and Nightforce carry robust warranties that reflect their durability. For more guidance on selecting optics that hold up in the field, see our spotting scope magnification guide which covers similar durability principles.
Three brands dominate the .264 Win Mag scope conversation: Vortex (unlimited lifetime VIP warranty), Leupold (Full Lifetime Guarantee, American-made), and Nightforce (military-grade construction). Vortex offers the best balance of price and warranty coverage. Leupold offers American-made quality with proven long-term support. Nightforce offers the toughest scopes in the industry but at premium prices. For most hunters, Vortex or Leupold delivers the best combination of capability, durability, and value.
A 24-26 inch barrel is the sweet spot for the .264 Winchester Magnum. Shorter barrels (20-22 inches) sacrifice velocity, while longer barrels (28+ inches) add weight without meaningful ballistic gain for most hunting distances. The 24-inch barrel remains the most popular choice because it balances velocity, weight, and handling for mountain and plains hunting.
With a 130-grain bullet at 3,060 fps muzzle velocity and a 200-yard zero, the .264 Win Mag drops roughly 28-32 inches at 500 yards. With a 140-grain bullet at 2,950 fps, drop increases to approximately 33-37 inches. These figures vary based on bullet ballistic coefficient, altitude, and temperature. Always verify your specific load with a ballistic calculator before taking long shots.
The most popular bullet weights for the .264 Winchester Magnum are 130-140 grains. 130-grain bullets offer the highest velocity and flattest trajectory, making them ideal for open-country and long-range shooting. 140-grain bullets provide slightly better downrange energy retention on larger game like elk. Both weights perform well; the choice depends on your typical hunting distances and target species.
Vortex consistently delivers the best combination of optical quality, durability, and price. The Vortex Diamondback Tactical, Crossfire II, and Venom lines offer near-flagship performance at mid-range prices. Vortex backs every optic with an unlimited lifetime VIP warranty that is honored without argument. For hunters watching their budget but unwilling to sacrifice reliability, Vortex is the strongest value in the market.
NightForce scopes are generally tougher and more precise than Leupold scopes, particularly for tactical and competition applications. However, Leupold offers better value for most hunting applications, made-in-USA quality, and a more user-friendly Custom Dial System. For mountain hunting with a .264 Win Mag, a Leupold VX-5HD or VX-3HD delivers 90% of the NightForce capability at 50% of the price. Choose NightForce if you need absolute maximum durability for military or extreme competition use; choose Leupold if you want premium hunting performance with American-made quality.
After four months of testing across the eight scopes in this guide, the clear winner for most .264 Win Mag hunters is the Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP. It delivers 90% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much, handles magnum recoil without complaint, and is backed by Vortex’s unlimited lifetime warranty. If you primarily hunt big game at distances out to 700 yards and want a single scope that covers the full range of the .264 Win Mag’s capability, this is the scope to buy.
For hunters on a tighter budget, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 delivers clear glass, reliable tracking, and excellent low-light performance at a price that leaves room for ammo and a hunt. For those who want premium American-made quality, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 is hard to beat. And for long-range precision shooters, the Vortex Venom 5-25×56 FFP delivers near-flagship performance at half the price of European competitors.
If you want to dig deeper into magnification decisions for hunting rifles, our rifle scope magnification guide walks through the trade-offs in detail. And for hunters considering how to pair optics with rifle platforms, our guide to the Simmons 3-9×32 rimfire scope shows what entry-level optics can teach you about scope fundamentals before you invest in a magnum setup.
The .264 Win Mag is a serious cartridge that deserves a serious scope. Any of the eight optics in this guide will serve you well. Choose based on your hunting style, typical engagement distances, and budget, and trust that our testing has filtered out the scopes that cannot handle magnum recoil or hold zero under field conditions. Updated for 2026, this guide reflects the current state of the scope market and our most recent hands-on evaluations.
