Leupold Scopes: Which model is the best value?

[DaisyCutter]

I'm finally going to buy some decent glass for my hunting rifle, and I'm convinced that Leupold effectively sets the standard.

I'm looking at a typical 3-9X40mm matte finish scope, but don't know whether VXI, VXII, or VXIII is the best value. It's hard to think I'm skimping and only getting a bottom end VXI for $200. Then it's even tougher to get the middle of the road VXII for $300. What justifies buying a 3-9X40mm VXIII for $400+??

Which of these product levels is the best value (bang per buck)? Actual price is less of a consideration then actual value. However, I'd rather spend $200 then $400... and most of all, I want to be satisfied regardless of price. My most expensive scope to date has been a Bushnell Banner ~$75 scope, so this is a big step.

Is there really that much of a difference in glass quality? From what I can tell, the extra hundred dollars only gets a different coating and "click" adjusters??

FWIW, this scope is for a basic Savage .308 accutrigger rifle.

[Randall]

Always, Always, Always, spend as much money as you can, and buy the best glass you can afford. You won't be sorry you did. I've had my share of cheaper glass, and have learned that you get what you pay for. I can't speak for the VXI, but I can vouch of the Vari XII, VXII, Vari XIII, and VXIIIs. Might consider a VXI for a .22 LR, but wouldn't put one on a high powered gun. Not saying it wouldn't hold up, but why take the chance. An extra $100 will put you into better glass.

I've got a VXIII 3.5 x10 on my Savage FP-110 in 7mag. My only regret is that I didn't have the money for the Mark IV scope at the time.
Randy

[rcnpthfndr]

i have a Leupold M8 fixed 6x for my hunting rifle, got it off of SWFA sample list, saved some money that also. but for everything else i have MK4 LR/T scopes hard to beat them

[motosapien]

The 1.75 to 6 power is a wonderful scope. Nice big clear picture and non-critical eye relief.

[DaisyCutter]

Originally posted by rcnpthfndr
SWFA sample list, saved some money that also.

SWFA is where I've been looking. They are currently offering free shipping and free Leupold mounts and bases on scopes >$299.95.

[CHUCKE]

The best scope for the money is the mark4 tactical 3-9x40 duplex reticle. Its under $400 and quite nice, but has no rangefinding. I have one on my savage .308 tactical and is definately a step up from a super sniper for little more money. Be warned though, as the best glass bug will get you. I just put a sick IOR scope on layaway, cost me $1100.:eek: Ill put the mark 4 on a cetme or something.

[W.E.G.]

You will like the VX-II 3x9 just fine.

Plenty of scope for the money.

American made.

Always high quality.

No bullshit warranty.


Leupold - accept no subsitutes.

[Beckman]

The question of value is actually quite personal and the line between "want" and "need" is quite flexible. Here are some questions to help you define your actual needs:

- Will your hunting/shooting take place at dawn/dusk or always during periods of reasonably bright light? One advantage of the VXIII over the VXII and the VXII over VXI is the lens coatings, which help your see better during low light. Of course, the better lenses help during the day, too, just not as much. But do you need it?

- Will you be shooting at longer ranges where you will adjust the windage/elevation or will you use "Kentucky windage", if you need to, for long shots? If you will not use them, you don't need target knobs.

- How many rounds do you intend to put through the rifle/scope? All of the Leupold scopes you mention have a lifetime guarantee and I personally do not know whether there is a durability difference between the VXI and the VXIII. If you will not be shooting a real lot, it probably doesn't matter, anyway.

Since you asked for the best value, not the best scope, you need to consider the above, plus some other factors, and decide on your true needs based upon your planned use of the scope.

I've found that the Leupold Custom Shop has been very helpful in answering my questions about their products.

[Mike in Seattle]

I have been leaning towards their LPS 2 1/2 x 10 x 45


Is anyone familiar with that model?

My intended uses are for brush hunting and target shooting.

I would like the wider field of view for the brush & the 10x for old eyes.

Thoughts? comments? experiences?

Thanks;
Mike

[W.E.G.]

The whole concept of "brush hunting" is pretty vague. Are you going to be shooting at deer that suddenly jump up while you are stalking?

I'd venture to say that you will have great difficulty obtaining any sight picture with a telescope if you are trying to get the crosshairs on an erratic and fast-moving target. That applies whether the targets are in brush or in the middle of a freshly-cut cornfield. When pursuing such targets, the only sensible optical sight is a no-magnification red dot sight like an EOTECH.

The 2.5 magnification might be OK if the target is moving VERY slowly. Think of a deer eating acorns in a hardwood grove.

I'm sure you will be delighted with any 2.5 x 10 Leupold scope. But remember, it is a TELESCOPE. As such it will be very challenging to employ on any moving target.

[doc diel]

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