Leupold 2.5-8x36 still worth it?

three5x5s

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I really dig the lower end magnification on scopes, I just don’t care for Leupold reticles.

Please, list reticles you perfer on lower magnification scopes. And why. I have a 22 Hornet that needs a scope but has to be 1 inch tub and the Leupold 2.5X8 is a candidate.
 
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Please, list reticles you perfer on lower magnification scopes. And why. I have a 22 Hornet that needs a scope but has to be 1 inch tub and the Leupold 2.5X8 is a candidate.
My choice is with nightforce, I really like their NXS line of low power scopes, 1-4x and 2.5-10. I’m a fan of their MOA reticles, but they don’t make those scopes anymore unfortunately. With that, I’ve moved to the NX8 line and have become acquainted with the 1-8x and 2.5-10x in this series.
 
OP
Newtosavage
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I got one recently but haven't had a chance to give it any field use yet. I want to compare it to the VX3HD 3.5-10X40 (just over 13 oz) so I just bought one recently. Will likely compare it to the Vortex Razor 1.5-8 (just over 13 oz) as well. I'll report back on my thoughts.

OP, I realize this doesn't answer you question about the Leupold 2.5-8. I don't have any experience with this scope.

Another alternative to look at is the SWFA ultralite. I think that is like 9 or 10 ounces and less than $400 if I'm not mistaken.
Had the Ultralite. Wasn't impressed with the optics above 8x.
 

philos

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I believe the Leupold 2.5 x 8 is still an awfully good scope for the money but it is getting up there in price. I have owned a few of them and have never had any issues.
 

thinhorn_AK

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I have a few of the vx3i models that I really like. I’ve never had an issue with them but I had a vx1 and a vx compact that had to get sent back.
 

Shraggs

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I’ve moved on from luepy too, had a bunch. My 2.5x8 went back 3 times for losing zero. That was in a kimber 84m in 308. Kicked a lot so there’s that. Sane with my slug gun whuch kicks even more - then my MZ wore the same optic that went back 2 times. They check a lot of boxes on paper tho.

My 3-9 trijicon accupoint is also light weight non dailing scope in my mind. Once I put those on the guns above never lost zero. But there pushing a grand.

If I’m looking for no frills, reliable and economy it’s swfa 6 fixed.
 

ETtikka

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Here you go newtosavage,,

 

BHunter

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Absolutely worth it. I listened to a Newberg podcast where he had one of the Leupold managers on. The manager said and I quote - " The Product Manager guys are gonna kill me for sayin this, but the 2.5-8 has the best light transmission of any scope we make".
 

KenLee

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Absolutely worth it. I listened to a Newberg podcast where he had one of the Leupold managers on. The manager said and I quote - " The Product Manager guys are gonna kill me for sayin this, but the 2.5-8 has the best light transmission of any scope we make".
He's insane. Typical ignorant Leupy talking head
 

Macintosh

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Feb 17, 2018
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This was my last leupold scope. Like the rest, it came back from warranty service for a wandering zero and adjustments not working, and was sold as refurbed. Fantastic scope to look through, not as fantastic to shoot with.
This was the last I had, after having the exact same problems with several others in the past. Out of four, only one never had a problem. Never again, at least not until there is a demonstrated record of better reliability.
Its not perfect, but so far the credo 3-9 that replaced this one has been noticeably better in the adjusting and holding zero department, glass is just as good to my eyes, cost is within a few $ the same, and while it is a few oz heavier its still plenty light for me.
IMG_2425.jpeg
 
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Another vote for the Maven 2-10x38. I can’t believe those scopes don’t get more love than they do. I’d rank mine above both my vxiii 2.5-8 and vx3 2.5-10. I’ve been told they have a short eye relief, but has not been an issue for me.
 
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I've had two of the vx3hd 2.5-8x36. They're my favorite scope to get a quick sight picture on a deer that jumps up and runs for brush.

However they both failed to hold zero. For real.
 
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