Drop test aside, what compares to Leupold?

[Jim813]

I understand the drop test failures along with the wandering zero are both well documented on Leupold scopes. My question is, with both of those aside, what compares to the:
- glass quality (including low light)
- simplicity of reticles
- fire-dot or illuminated option
- weight
- warranty

I am looking for a 3-15, 3-18, or 4-20/24 type range of scope for hunting specifically from 100-700 yards. I've had a couple Leupolds I've been very happy with, but would like to consider more reliable options with how common the issues seem to be. I'm looking for something comparable to the VX6 in low light glass quality, clarity, simplicity, and function but more reliable when using the turret or the accidental drop.

Thanks in advance for the recommendations.

 

[grfox92]

Trijicon.

 

[SDHNTR]

There isn’t one. Something is gonna have to give. Either a few ounces, or your idea of a simple reticle, or glass quality.

 

[Q_Sertorius]

What do you mean by simplicity of reticle? What kind of reticle do you want for shooting at 700 yards?

What weight range?

 

[dårlig jeger]

Leupold makes a helluva scope to handle and look through in the store.

 

[RockAndSage]

I understand the drop test failures along with the wandering zero are both well documented on Leupold scopes. My question is, with both of those aside, what compares to the:
- glass quality (including low light)
- simplicity of reticles
- fire-dot or illuminated option
- weight
- warranty

I am looking for a 3-15, 3-18, or 4-20/24 type range of scope for hunting specifically from 100-700 yards. I've had a couple Leupolds I've been very happy with, but would like to consider more reliable options with how common the issues seem to be. I'm looking for something comparable to the VX6 in low light glass quality, clarity, simplicity, and function but more reliable when using the turret or the accidental drop.

Thanks in advance for the recommendations.

Swarovski and Schmidt & Bender, on all counts save the warranty. And S&B's the only one I'd bet a hunt on at this point. I've owned and used both, as well as Leupold.

Warranty is not what I'd judge a scope's value by - it's mostly a sucker's game, from companies who know their products are crap. The absolute best gear usually comes with qualified warranties of some kind, and needs it the least.

 

[IdahoJoe29]

Take a look at the zeiss conquest series. I switched from a vx6 and I’ve been super happy with my v4

 

[Yaremkiv]

The swarovski offerings?

 

[nm.otter]

What's your budget?

 

[Chris in TN]

Drop test aside​

"Other than that, how was the play, Mrs. Lincoln?"

 

[Snowhunter11]

I would say the maven rs1.2 would compare to a vx5/6 for features, warranty, close clarity, etc. I have used both and would take the Maven every time.

 

[bnsafe]

i agree with trijicon accupoint

 

[Bubblehide]

Considering it sounds like you're looking for Leupold's known reliability and durability, with a warranty you plan on using, go with Vortex.

 

[Blake C]

Go look in your trash can

 

[IdahoJoe29]

 

[nobody]

View attachment 1063204

As a staunch believer in the drop test, it’s funny how accurate this feels at times on here

OP, the Maven RS1.2 really does check the boxes you’re looking for and compares handsomely against the VX5 and VX6.

2.5-15x magnification
Illumination at the center of reticle
great glass quality
Great warranty backed by good people
Solid reticle options
Provision for custom turrets if you’re into that sort of thing.

 

[KenLee]

A Chinese Burris

 

[Meanderthal]

There really aren't options that check all the same boxes as Leupold while adding durability and reliability. Trijicon gets my vote for best alternative.

 

[Bubblehide]

View attachment 1063204

Naw, I was actually laughing. But @nobody did provide a reliable, durable option with the glass quality the OP prioritizes over everything actually important.

 

[Jim813]

I appreciate the constructive comments so far. Some funny ones as well.

"My idea" of a simple reticle is one that a 10 year old new hunter, an adult who enjoys hunting but has minimal enthusiasm for shooting, and an enthusiast can all be successful with. Attached is an example that has fit the bill so far. For my situation, something too complex for this would be the NX8 mil-xt.

I've looked through several scopes from the Leupold line, vortex line, and Nightforce NX8 with the mil-xt reticle. To my eye the Vx6 had a crisper image and better low light transmission than those I've looked through so far. In my situations that last 5-15 minutes of light can be the difference.

My intent in the point of this post is to figure out if there is a comparable viewing experience with better durability/reliability. It sounds like some think there is and some agree there is a compromise. Is it worth it to give up a little on the glass for better reliability? That's what I'm trying to figure out.

Weight wise, I don't think 8 extra oz will be a deal breaker but its worth noting.

Warranty, no one intends to use but I don't want a product that their company doesn't stand behind if there is an issue.