Help me choose a scope

[Shrek]

Thanks for the continued input. On the new coil spring system, it sure sounds nice but I can't say that I read reports about Z3's losing zero with their conventional leaf spring system either.

I've had two Z3's so far and they both have held zero and tracked well. I'm going to buy another one soon so I obviously have confidence in the leaf spring system.

 

[HuntHarder]

Does the z5 have a side adjustable parallax, and the z3 does not? If so, I would take the AO over a fixed parallax. As far as power goes, 500 yards is not that far, and 12 power is plenty sufficient for 500 yards. I actually prefer to shoot on 12-14 power up to 700 yards. My scope is 6.5-20, and I rarely use 20 power, except for 700+.

 

[Bearhunter]

I love my Z5, it is nice and noticeable to have that extra 6x over the 12x Z3. Also the Swarovski ballistic Turret scopes have a zero stop just like the Night Force. The extra weight of the night force doesn't make sense for me on a light weight build.... You will have a hard time finding all the functions that the Z5 offers from another brand of scope in such a light weight durable package. With the coil suspension system you can use the scope on the biggest of magnums if you choose to... If you buy the Z3 take it from me you will be second guessing your decision for years and be pissed you settled... Just my cents... Enjoy whatever you go with and post some pics! James

 

[Bughalli]

This is what I referenced as different turrets or engraving options. The second photo shows the variations depending on how much detail you want on your turret. I was never a fan of the three ring setup, so custom is the way to go.
http://www.swarovskioptik.com/caccia/blog/PBC_personalized_ballistic_cam_order_process

 

[colonel00]

Ah, gotcha. Yeah, I plan to probably go with a custom turret at some point. I will probably roll with the rings for a bit though as I need to settle in on a factory load.

 

[colonel00]

Back from the dipper and just waiting on a scope. 6lbs 3oz sure makes that Z3 look good to keep it under 7lbs. Then again, the Z5 is only another ounce and who are we kidding, with bullets and perhaps a sling, this rifle is over 7lbs anyway

 

[Laelkhunter]

Does the z5 have a side adjustable parallax, and the z3 does not? If so, I would take the AO over a fixed parallax. As far as power goes, 500 yards is not that far, and 12 power is plenty sufficient for 500 yards. I actually prefer to shoot on 12-14 power up to 700 yards. My scope is 6.5-20, and I rarely use 20 power, except for 700+.

The Z3 does not have a parallax adjustment where the Z5 does.
I have replaced the scope on my Weatherby .340. It used to have a Zeiss Conquest 4.5-14X44, but I replaced it with a Swaro Z5 3.5-18X44 with the BRH reticle.
The Zeiss was decent, but is nowhere close to the Swaro in clarity, etc (and price too). I think you can't go wrong with either the Z3 or Z5, but if you are going to be using the BT, and constantly making adjustments in the field, I would personally feel more confident in the Z5 with the coil spring erector assembly. Although, I have never heard of any problems with the Z3 holding it's zero or tracking.
I also found the parallax adjustment in the Z5 a nice option.