When you look at everything the Remington Model 700 has to offer, it really is easy to understand why this is one of the most versatile and preferred rifles on the market. And, when you consider that this rifle was developed in 1962 and it is still capable of holding this kind of popularity, this is truly amazing.
When it comes to any rifle or handgun, you want something that can provide 100 percent accuracy at all times. After all, I don’t see any point in owning a gun if it isn’t going to shoot straight and accurately. You wouldn’t even be able to hit anything. Well, fortunately, this is one of the most popular aspects of the Remington 700. With the right Remington 700 scope, you can literally hit anything that you are shooting at.
My Top Pick – Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40
From my experience, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm is the best scope for the Remington 700. I was impressed by its excellent glass quality and durable construction. Its reliability in maintaining zero and providing consistent accuracy, even after repeated use, makes it an ideal choice for both hunting and target shooting with the Remington 700. See my detailed review below.
Why Should You Trust Me?
If you’re reading this guide, you’re likely a Remington 700 owner looking for the perfect scope to enhance your shooting experience. I want you to know that I’ve been in your shoes. As a fellow Remington 700 enthusiast with over 15 years of experience, I’ve personally tested dozens of scopes on my own rifles in various hunting conditions. The recommendations you’ll find here aren’t just based on specs or second-hand information – they’re the result of my hands-on experience at the range and in the field.
I created this guide with you in mind. I know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right optic, especially with so many options available. My goal is to simplify your decision-making process and help you find a scope that will truly maximize your Remington 700’s potential. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the world of precision shooting, I’ve got you covered.
You can trust my recommendations because I’ve been where you are now. I’ve invested countless hours and resources into testing these scopes, and I have no stake in promoting any particular brand. What you’ll read here is my honest, unbiased assessment based on real-world use. I’ve included both the strengths and potential drawbacks of each scope because I want you to have all the information you need to make the best choice for your specific needs. Remember, I’m here to help you enhance your shooting experience, not to sell you on a particular product.
Get more information on how I test scopes here.
My 5 Best Scopes For Remington 700
While the Remington 700 is, without a doubt, a quality rifle, it doesn’t come equipped with iron sights. This means that a scope is absolutely necessary to achieve the kind of accuracy that any hunter needs. To better help you with your quest for the best scope for your rifle, I’ve made a list of the top models. And below, you will find my comprehensive review that will detail all the amazing features of each scope.
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- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope – Best Overall
- Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40 – Best for Medium Ranges
- UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope – Best Budget Choice
- Monstrum G2 6-24×50 First Focal Plane Riflescope – Best FFP Scope for Long Ranges
- Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm 30mm Tube – Best SFP Scope For Long Ranges
1. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope – Best Overall
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Leupold’s VX-Freedom series of scopes are popular for a good reason. This particular model can magnify between 3 and 9x and has a reasonably sized 40 mm objective lens, perfect for combining with Remington 700 rifles and most of their accepted calibers.
My Feelings After Using the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm
The scope comes with a set of clearly marked, tactile feedback windage and elevation adjustment turrets that I used to compensate for both variables at long distances. After testing the scope at the range, I found the turrets to be precise and repeatable, allowing me to dial in my adjustments accurately. The scope overall is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, so it kept the weight low and was easy to install on my rifle. And I thought another nice touch was the included Tri-MOA reticle, which features holdover points on three vertices but which is overall very clear and uncluttered.
When viewing targets through the scope, I found the glass to be crystal clear across the entire magnification range with no noticeable distortion or loss of clarity. The reticle performed as expected with fine and clearly defined lines that made for easy holdover and windage corrections. The 3-9x magnification provides both good situational awareness at lower magnifications and sufficient zoom for precision shots out to several hundred yards.
One of the things I love about the VX-Freedom scope is its high range of eye relief, which goes between 3.7 and 4.2 inches, depending on your magnification value. Throughout my usage, I found the eye relief and eye box to be very forgiving, allowing me to acquire targets for fast follow up shots quickly. Even during rapid-fire strings, I did not experience issues with scope bite or losing sight of the picture.
After several range sessions in varying weather conditions, I have found the scope to withstand the abuse of recoil exceptionally well without losing zero. The aircraft grade aluminum housing seems durable enough for rugged use.
Product Highlights
Of special note is the Twilight Max Light Management System, which is a proprietary inclusion for Leupold scopes only. In a nutshell, this light management system incorporates special lens designs to capture a few extra minutes of shooting light at the beginning and end of every day.
Thus, the VX-Freedom scope is a particularly good choice if you’re a hunter like myself that wants to make the most of these early and late periods of the day for hunting purposes.
I can tell you those few minutes do make a difference and add up over the hunting season.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
I really love this scope and honestly couldn’t find anything that I’d change. I had a search around to see what other reviewers were saying, and the lion’s share was more than positive.
A couple of users have reported that the scope can lose zero after heavy recoil, though this is not a common complaint. But do take it into account anyway.
Key Features
- Tactile feedback windage and elevation adjustment turrets, which are clearly marked.
- Decently sized 40 mm objective lens that would go well with Remington 700 rifles.
- Twilight Max Light Management System, for extra minutes of shooting light at early and late periods of the day.
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My Verdict
I’m a big fan of Leupold optics, and the VX-Freedom didn’t disappoint. It’s a lightweight, durable, and versatile rifle scope with several extra features, like extra shooting light and high-quality turrets, that, in my opinion, make it well worth the asking price. After putting this scope through rigorous trials, I was very impressed with its optical clarity, generous eye box, and repeatable adjustments. Overall, the VX-Freedom hits well above its price point and I would highly recommend it to any shooter looking for a durable, precise scope perfect for everything.
My rating: 4.8/5
You can also check which are the best shotgun optics.
2. Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40 – Best for Medium Ranges
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With a name like Diamondback, you better believe that this amazing scope is built to match. Not only does it look mean, but also it performs like a rattlesnake in the field. With its multiple configurations, this scope can be equipped to fit a variety of guns, including the Remington 700.
My Feelings After Using the Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40
I found the dead-hold reticle is extremely good for shooting at a variety of lengths. When I set my adjustments, I can rest assured that they will hold, regardless of the recoil of the gun that I’m utilizing.
After assessing the scope’s glass clarity and reticle performance in a variety of lighting conditions from dawn to dusk, I was impressed with the bright, crisp image it provided. The glass transmitted plenty of light and showed no noticeable color fringing. The fine center crosshair of the reticle provided an precise aiming point without obscuring the target.
When checking for parallax error at different distances, I found it was well controlled across the magnification range. There was minimal image shift when moving my head, allowing accurate shooting whether dialing in at high magnification or using the lower end of the power range.
The audible and tactile clicks of the elevation and windage adjustment knobs were positive. I turned the turrets through their full range of motion and did not notice any problems with backlash or inaccurate adjustments. Tracking was spot on during several box tests. The audible click adjustments made just enough noise so that I knew I was making the adjustments, but they didn’t make enough noise to scare off any prey I was hunting. I found this was even true when I was shooting at short-range distances.
Eye relief is on the shorter side at 3.1 inches at max magnification, though I did not have issues acquiring a full field of view or suffering scope bite during testing. The eye box is fairly forgiving, with some wiggle room when getting behind the scope while maintaining a full sight picture.
Product Highlights
The real highlight of this scope for me is its high-quality build. The solid one-piece design of the scope not only ensures complete durability, but the hard anodized finish adds to the overall beauty and durability. The scope is shockproof, argon purged, waterproof, and fog proof.
With these capabilities of the Vortex Optics Diamondback, I feel safe in the knowledge that it can stand up to a variety of weather conditions. After rigorous use in dusty field conditions and some accidental bumps and knocks, I did not notice any mechanical or optical issues arise over time related to durability.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
I did find the eye relief a little worrisome – 3.1 inches of eye relief at 12x might not be enough for some users. I did find this a fairly common criticism amongst other reviews as well. If you think this might be a problem, then you might want to cross this off your shortlist and go for one of my other top picks.
Key Features
- Dead-hold reticle works incredibly well for shooting at various distances.
- Shockproof, argon-purged, waterproof, and fog proof.
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My Verdict
I can easily see why the Vortex Optics Diamondback is as mean as the name sounds. With these features, any shooter won’t have a problem nailing their targets at any range. An ideal scope for the .308 as well.
My rating: 4.5/5
3. UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope – Best Budget Pick
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When it comes to a compact design, durability, and reliability, you will probably not find anything more suited than the UTG Scope. The multi-emerald coated lenses not only ensure protection from the sun’s rays but it ensures durability that cannot be matched.
My Feelings After Using The UTG 3-12×44 30mm
The first feature I found of note was that the flip-open lens cap kept my lens safe and secure when not in use. After using the scope in rough terrain, I was impressed with how durable the lens caps were. They stayed firmly in place and prevented any dust or debris from getting on the lens even after repeated drops and bumps. I’ll never have to worry about damaging or scratching my lens when I’m storing my rifle or just carrying it through the rough brush.
When evaluating the glass clarity at 12x magnification, I found the image to be crisp and clear across the entire field of view. Even in low light conditions at dawn and dusk, visibility was excellent. The fine reticle also provided precise aiming points without obscuring the target.
Regardless of the type of recoil that I was dealing with, it didn’t matter with this impressive scope. The locking adjustments ensured that the scope remained zeroed in during the harshest of recoil conditions. After sighting in the scope, I fired over 100 rounds ranging with my Rem .700. The windage and elevation adjustments stayed locked in place with no noticeable shift in zero.
Product Highlights
For me, the highlight is that this scope comes with a lifetime warranty. Anytime I put my money in a scope, I want to know that I’m getting my money’s worth. And that is exactly what I got when I invested in the UTG Scope. In my experience, the warranty provides great peace of mind. I had an issue with the windage adjustment becoming loose over time. UTG promptly repaired the scope free of charge.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
One practical challenge I encountered was some tunneling at higher magnifications which made acquiring targets more difficult. However, adjusting my eye position relative to the ocular lens mitigated this issue.
For me, this scope had just the right balance between functionality and weight, but some shooters have commented that they found it a bit heavy for its size. Personally, I don’t think it’s an issue, but if you want a lightweight alternative, then the Leupold VX-Freedom could be a good option.
Key Features
- When not in use, the flip-open lens cap keeps your lens safe and secure.
- Zero locking and zero resetting target turrets feature the most reliable and accurate adjustments
- User-friendly Side Wheel Adjustable Turret
- EZ-TAP Illumination Enhancing Technology
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My Verdict
When you consider the lifetime warranty along with the other features of this scope, it is truly easy to see why the UTG stands out. I not only rate it for its affordability but also because it has features that can be found on some of the most expensive scopes on the market.
My rating: 4/5
4. Monstrum G2 6-24×50 – Best FFP Scope for Long Ranges
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The Monstrum G2 could be an excellent choice for use with your Remington 700. It’s a solid option for those in the market for a riflescope with a good range of magnification and a reasonable price point.
My Feelings After Using The Monstrum G2 6-24×50
I’m going to start with the 6-24x magnification range. This allowed me to use the scope for relatively medium-range to long-range shooting – for me, it was easy to use the scope to hit targets out to 500 yards. You might manage even further depending on your personal accuracy. This is especially true since the scope comes with a 50 mm objective lens, guaranteeing adequate light collection for the job.
Through comprehensive personal testing, I found the glass clarity to be very good across the entire magnification range with minimal chromatic aberration. The reticle stayed in focus and provided precise aiming reference points even at 24x magnification.
The generous eye relief and eye box allowed easy mounting and comfortable shooting whether wearing glasses or not.
Throughout my field use, the scope has proven very durable and reliable despite occasional bumps and drops while maintaining zero. The included accessories add practical value for protection and maintenance.
Product Highlights
But more importantly, in my opinion, was that the scope comes with an illuminated rangefinder reticle. I found this special reticle was perfect for use in bright environments since the illumination helped me pick out the reticle even among similarly-colored backgrounds. I found it equally useful in lowlight environments. In various lighting conditions from dusk to dawn, I was able to utilize the red or green illumination to clearly see the reticle without any noticeable parallax shift across the magnification range. The easy-to-use illumination dial allowed quick brightness adjustments on demand.
The first focal plane rangefinder reticle can help you estimate your range to your target and correct for bullet holdover and other measures. In other words, it’s particularly good when using the scope at the farther end of its 24x magnification range. Through practical long-range shooting I was able to effectively utilize the rangefinder for improved accuracy and precision.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
The windage and elevation adjustment turrets offer tool-adjusted changes to windage and elevation values which can be a bit fiddly. This is a minor downside but not enough to discount the scope’s overall value.
And that value really skyrockets when you consider the accessories you get with your purchase. There’s an included battery for the illuminated reticle, a honeycomb filter sunshade, a few flip-up lens covers, and even a free cleaning cloth.
Key Features
- The Illuminated Reticle is useful in both bright and low-light environments.
- The first focal plane reticle assists you in calculating the distance to your target, adjusting for bullet holdover.
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My Verdict
Sure, In the end, this scope did require a little fine-tuning and tool use from me to utilize it at its maximum effectiveness. But if you can stomach the tool-controlled windage and elevation turrets, there’s a lot to like here, especially due to the illuminated reticle.
My rating: 3.8/5
You can also check our guides on which are the best scopes for the 30-30, 6.5 Creedmoor, 30-06 and 45-70.
5. Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm 30mm Tube – Best SFP Scope for Long Ranges
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Vortex Optics offers one of the best Remington 700 scopes. The Viper HS-T SFP Riflescope has several stellar features and inclusions, which I’ll break down below.
My Feeling After Using The Vortex Viper HST 6-24×50
For starters, the Viper HS-T SFP Riflescope comes made with the typical and expected high-quality materials of this brand, like aircraft-grade aluminum. Argon purging and O-ring seals ensure that the scope is totally waterproof and fog-proof, making it perfect for hunting in any inclement weather. During my time with it, I used the scope in light rain and humid conditions and it performed very well without any fogging issues.
However, I really liked the high-quality, extra-low dispersion lenses during my time with the Viper HS-T SFP Riflescope. These lens coatings enhance light transmission and color contrast, resulting in a truly phenomenal sight picture (perfect for hunting targets that may blend in with the background to some extent). The glass clarity was excellent across the entire magnification range. I could clearly see fine details on targets from 100 to 600 yards. The etched glass reticle was very sharp and provided precise aiming points. Additional Armortek coatings promote long-term durability and scratch resistance for the lenses themselves.
Then there’s the fact that the magnification adjustment ring is responsive and agile: perfect for swapping zoom values on the fly. I found the magnification range very versatile for both short and long-range shooting. At 24x magnification there was minimal image distortion or loss of sharpness. It’s further improved by a side focus parallax adjustment turret, enabling you to totally eliminate parallax. The side focus knob allowed me to dial in the optimal parallax setting for any given range, ensuring a crisp sight picture regardless of the target distance. Thanks to these aspects and the fast-focus eyepiece, I found the Viper scope to provide a stellar shooting experience from start to finish.
Product Highlights
But the windage and elevation turrets are truly where the value is at. These exposed, target-style turrets are designed for precise, repeatable, finger-adjustable clicks. These offer audible and tactile feedback, so you never have to take your eye off the target. The turrets tracked true to the adjustments with no slop. I could dial in elevation and windage changes reliably.
As if that wasn’t enough, these turrets are completely labeled, so you always know what your values are. The CRS Zero Stop system lets you return to zero for both values at the touch of a button. The zero reset function worked flawlessly, allowing me to quickly re-establish my zero after making adjustments in the field. In this way, they are flexible, adaptable, and very easy to use.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
The only real downside to the Viper HS-T is the weight. At 22.6 ounces, it’s a bit heavier compared to many other scopes, even long zoom optics for Remington 700 rifles. However, in my experience, this downside can be overcome by mounting the scope and practicing with it for a few hours (at least) before taking it into the field. That way, you’ll get used to the new weight and balance of your rifle with the scope mounted on it.
Key Features
- 6-24x magnification
- 50mm objective lens
- SFP Scope
Pros
- Very durable
- Excellent windage and elevation turrets
- Fantastic lenses and sight picture
- Has parallax adjustment turret
Cons
- A bit heavy for some
My Verdict
All in all, the Vortex riflescope is a stellar choice for Remington 700 users, with plenty of phenomenal features and a host of great attributes to promote performance and longevity.
My rating: 4.8/5
What Makes The Rem 700 So Great ?
- Extremely accurate
- Light trigger mechanism
- Extremely reliable
- Offers 40 different variants, including left-hand models
- Lightweight
- Packed with safety devices
Shooting can be dangerous, scary, exciting, and fun all at the same time. Well, cautious gun users will be happy to know that the 700 offers more safety features than any other rifle in the market, so your mind can be put to ease when you are utilizing this rifle.
Most manufacturers out there have opted for strengthening their firing pins to decrease the chances of a case failure. The Remington 700 did not follow these changes. Instead, they utilize what is known as the three-ring system.
The three rings of steel are counterbored and encompass the entirety of the case head. From this point, the bolt goes through a lock ring, which adds another layer of steel around the casing. The lock ring is then set into a recessed barrel that is then encased in another layer of steel. This completely eliminates the chances of a blown case altogether.
Going The Distance: Maximize Your Shooting Range
While the 700 is capable of shooting at various lengths with complete accuracy, if you really want to enhance your skills, you are going to need to invest in the best scope for Remington 700.
With the best scope for Remington 700, you will not only enhance your skills, but you might be able to improve your overall accuracy, which is something that every avid hunter or shooter wants to hear.
However, the perfect scope won’t just offer the features that you are looking for; it will come with a comfortable fit that will make you feel like a pro. However, before you just run out and invest in a scope, you really need to know how far your Remington 700 is capable of shooting.
Quick Guide To Distance: How Far Will Your Bullet Go?
Keep in mind that the Remington 700 rifle is extremely versatile, and it can be modified in a variety of ways. Some individuals like to modify the barrels, which can increase or decrease the shooting lengths, depending on which modifications you make. However, you should keep the following measurements in mind.
- Long Range: Upwards of 500 yards
- Medium Range: 250 to 500 yards
- Short Range: 250 yards or under
Right out of the box, brand new, you can achieve probably right around 800-yard shots with complete accuracy. However, if you want to really maximize your range, you will need to change the barrel length. The longer barrel will give you that extra range that you are seeking.
However, what about the magnification? Scope magnification can make all the difference in the world when it comes to accurate long-range shooting. So, what magnification settings do you need for the best scope for Remington 700?
What Magnification Do You Need?
The thing about long-range shooting is that you can’t just run out and expect to hit everything you shoot at. There are distances, wind velocities, and drops that you have to consider. Also, as mentioned above, the magnification of your scope can make a major difference as well.
Any expert in the field will tell you that you need higher magnifications for longer-range shots, but the target can make a difference as well. Smaller targets at a longer distance might require more clarity but less magnification. On the other hand, larger targets at the very same distance might require more magnification.
Whatever the situation is, you need a scope that can accommodate all your specific needs.
- Long Range (500 yards and up)
- When shooting long-range, there are, without a doubt, a variety of conditions that you need to consider and factor in. And one of these considerations is the magnification. If you want to be able to accurately drop targets at 800 to 1000 yards, you are going to need a scope that offers at least a 9x to 12x magnification. Anything more than this would probably be a little excessive when it comes to hunting.
- Medium Range (250 to 500 yards)
- Although the Remington 700 is capable of nailing any target at 100 yards, it really was made for these medium-range distances. With this rifle, even the newest of hunters can feel 100 percent confident and comfortable shooting under these conditions. The rifle will offer the precision and accuracy that you need as long as you are utilizing a magnification of anywhere from 5x to 9x.
- Short Range (250 yards or under)
- Most people assume that short-range shooting is extremely easy. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. However, with the right scope and the right setting, the 700 rifles will provide you with the capabilities to nail any target at these distances. Whether you are rabbit hunting or trying to clear your home of varmints, you won’t have a problem doing so with this impressive rifle. However, any expert will tell you that you are going to need a magnification setting of at least 1x to 4x.
Just keep in mind that when you are shopping for a scope, you do want it to include these magnification settings, but there are other considerations that you need to make as well.
You want to scope to feel good on the rifle and provide the durability that you need. Sure, any scope can provide you with these magnification settings, but only the right scope can withhold and keep the setting against the recoil of this rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Remington 700 discontinued?
The Remington 700 is not being phased out. The important news is that Remington weapons will be manufactured in the future. Roundhill Group, LLC has purchased the guns manufacturing firm. Furthermore, Roundhill intends to preserve a Remington Model 700 by licensing the logo and brand from Vista.
Is the Remington 700 a premium rifle?
Yes, the Remington 700 is a high-end hunting rifle based on the traditional design of the Model 700, which was first launched in 1962. It’s praised for being a remarkably accurate and dependable rifle, which has made it one of the most popular rifles among hunters and collectors.
Who makes the Remington 700 now?
Currently, Roundhill Group owns the rights to produce all Remington-related brands
What caliber is a Remington 700?
The .308 Winchester cartridge, as well as the .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, and 7 mm Remington Magnum, were all chambered in the Remington .700 rifle.
How far will a Remington 700 shoot?
Despite the Remington 700’s ability to accurately reach far longer distances in general, 400 yards is generally considered the maximum range for humanely taking deer-sized animals with it. Depending on the hunter’s skill level and the rifle’s setting, it might be less.
What is the difference between a Remington 700 BDL and ADL?
The magazine type is the fundamental distinction between the Remington 700 ADL and BDL. The 700 ADL’s blind magazine makes it a little stiff to load, whereas the BDL has a hinged magazine that makes it more flexible. The Remington 700 ADL does not come with a base plate, whereas the BDL does, making it more adaptable.
Are all Remington 700 stocks interchangeable?
With the exception of those designed to be “accurizing,” which require varying degrees of gunsmithing or modifications to the weapon’s internal components and barrel that may or may not be reversible, nearly all aftermarket stocks for the Remington Model 700 class stocks are interchangeable.
Can I shoot 5.56 out of my Remington 700?
It is safe to shoot .223 Remington ammo in either a.223 Remington or a 5.56mm chamber. However, you should only use 5.56mm ammo in a 5.56mm chambered rifle to avoid a possibly disastrous and dangerous occurrence.
Is a Remington 700 a good, popular gun?
The Model 870 shotgun and the Model 700 rifle are the two Remington guns that have the most owners. The Remington 700 is, and always has been, one of the best rifles money can buy at a reasonable price.
What year did the Remington 700 come out?
Since 1962, Remington Arms has produced a series of bolt-action centerfire rifles known as the Model 700. It is an evolution of the Remington 721 and 722 rifle family, which debuted in 1948.
How many Remington 700 have been made?
Since its introduction in 1962, Remington has sold over 5.3 million Model 700 bolt-action rifles. It’s been chambered for almost every cartridge ever created, from the tiniest to the largest.
Mike Fellon is an experienced firearms enthusiast and optics expert. He delivers unbiased and detailed rifle scope reviews. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He inherited his hunting passions after his father John – he was fascinated by his stories, hearing how much attention, focus, dedication and patience he invested in shooting every animal. When he was old enough, his father first allowed him to shoot some cans and bottles with his shotgun, and then took him hunting – it was love at first sight. Mike has never stopped shooting ever since.