Z-5 with ballistic Turret, Nikon Monarch 5, or if you can find them, the Nikon ATB 8X42. I have both, both are GREAT. Although I gave my Daughter the Nikons and I bought a pair of Leupolds new McKinnley 10X42 binos. I wanted more power for long range stand hunting and they have great eye relief for my stupid glasses.
Just my 2cents. I'm kinda in JG Raiders camp. I tell everyone to get the BEST you can afford and then buy a little better. You will only cry once. It's like buying a top line stereo, get great compnents and even GREATER speakers, same applie tp optics.
I'm in your camp with the 280AI
Look forward to seeing what you end up with.
PS, I bought my rifle (Sako 85) and ZS BT from Europtics and the Bino's from Cameralandny. Both great people to deal with.
