Leupold 2.5-8x36 still worth it?

[Sinistram]

Are the new ones worth it? I would say "no" only because the used market for older scopes is so robust. Personally, I've had good success with used Leupolds and never have a fear of buying one because of the warranty. They all get a good range testing for a while before it's prime time. My older Vari-XIII in that configuration has lived a happy life on a 7mm Wby mag. It's actually on the rifle in my profile pic.

Personally, I'm not a fan of the mandatory CDS ZL on the new VX3HD line and would much rather have regular turrets. When I can buy a used one for around $300 and the new ones are pushing $450, the choice is clear.

As for the scope configuration as a whole - it might very well be the best hunting scope ever made. For all practical hunting scenarios, you'd never be short-changed with one on top your rifle.

 

[pacoalcracker]

I remember just recently where a well known african hunter was on safari and he dropped his rifle off the truck and the Trijicon scope lost zero by 4 feet.....the best part...it was a Trijicon sponsored hunting show.....how embarrassing! Yeah it did not pass that drop test. I have been using Leupolds for 40 years, both hunting with them and shooting at the range with the same scopes.....never had a single one lose a zero or any failures. Heck, I must own at least 25. What you get for the weight, the optical excellence, the cost, the appearance and a well founded reputation just cannot be beat. Far better than any crappo Vortex scope for the same money. Everything is a trade off. You can get better for more money, more weight or both.

 

[Chris_in_Idaho]

I have been using Leupolds for 40 years, both hunting with them and shooting at the range with the same scopes.....never had a single one lose a zero or any failures. Heck, I must own at least 25. What you get for the weight, the optical excellence, the cost, the appearance and a well founded reputation just cannot be beat.

Just so I make sure I understand, are you saying that in 40 years, when you check zero before each hunt, you've never had to make an adjustment? Or are you just saying you haven't had a bad shot on an animal due to the scope losing zero?

I definitely agree about the form factor and price. Nothing touches them for being light and bright at a good price point.