Scopes: Leupold VX-III vs Zeiss Conquest vs Nikon Buckmaster

[BossHog]

Got some good feedback on mods to new rifles (trigger pull, bedding...), but a common response was high quality optics. General rule: "spend as much on your optics as you did on your rifle".

I have the Leupold VX-3 on my 7mmMag. Happy with it. Is there anything else out there that offers more bang for my buck? Doesn't seems like it, but I refer to the experts.

Ziess
Nikon
Bushnell
Leupold Mark 4

 

[smithstation]

I own several leupolds from VX-1 to a mk4 as well as a buckmaster and a 4.5x14 Zeiss Z-800. The glass in the zeiss is a bit more clear but not that much of a difference than the mk 4. If I had to do it over I would buy more leupolds and stick with them. Their customer service is the best I have ever seen and the scopes (even the cheap rifleman 3x9) hold up well. I like the zeiss but the leupolds win my vote. If you want a big step up the nightforce or US optics are really nice. I looked at a huskama but I liked my mk-4 better. I am going to have a set of turits built for my 6.5x20 leupold in the near future.

 

[BigSurArcher]

I only have experience with the Zeiss and the Leupold, and Leupold wins my vote due to the fact that they are more customizable. There are many more turret and reticle options available for them, and in the field the glass in my VX-III is equal (maybe better) to that of the Zeiss Conquest. Plus the Leupold's look better IMO. One thing to consider regarding the optical differences is this: You may have noticed that some high end optics have the slightest of a yellowish hue, while others have a very slight blue hue. The Zeiss has the blue, and the Leupold has the yellow. I like the yellow hue better for low light situations. It's so subtle that some people don't even notice it, so it might not make any difference for you. Good luck!

 

[bisonic]

I have a Leupold that I like and just ordered a Zeiss for my M70 (should be here tomorrow). I don't think you'll go wrong with either.

I currently have a Bushnell Elite 4200 on the M70 and do not like it as the eye relief isn't sufficient. The optics and overall quality are good, but it only takes one smack between the eyes to make you regret buying it. I'm going to put it on my AR instead.

 

[catchdog]

leupold VXIII

 

[jls456]

VXIII

 

[jdp080563]

Look at the Burris also.

 

[bisonic]

I just returned from the range after swapping my Bushnell 4200 for a Zeiss Conquest - wow, what a difference! Much more eye relief, better clarity and focus, overall a vast improvement. I'd likely favor the Zeiss over my Leupold, but they're close.