Leupold vx3i 4x14 questions

[Matt79]

Guys,

I am looking to replace a hd5 w a lightweight hunting scope that I can dial vs using reticles. Max range will be around 500 yrds and that would be on the top range. It will top a 6.5 tikka t3x, which is used for western hunting.

I have pretty much decided on a vx3i 4x14 with cds, more than likey w 1” tube with the windplex or standard duplex reticle, I don’t want to look at clutter.

There are models with and without the side focus in the 14x. For the users that have one or the other, or both, is the side focus needed or not?... if I it stays clear across all ranges, simpler is better in my eyes. If needed I have no problem spending the extra money, just looking for opinions from users.

I am considering heavily on the 50mm vs the 40mm offering also, again feedback if anyone has used both in lowlight hunting situations and if there is a real advantage?

After I get as much feedback as possible to make my final decision is there a vendor someone could recommend for best prices?..also I have read that leupold may offer a discount for law enforcement, which if is true I could have my wife buy me a nice present!

Any and all feedback on this scope will be greatly appreciated to help me make my decision.
Thanks guys!

 

[gr8fuldoug]

It would be my pleasure to discuss this with you and assist you with this purchase. Please feel free to give me or Neil a call, 516-217-1000
Have a great day
Doug

 

[Fatcamp]

Here is what it will look like. 40mm. I switched to SWFA 3-9 shortly after this picture was taken. No reason other than I can't leave anything alone.

 

[thinhorn_AK]

SWFA ha star vx5 on sale.

 

[bozeman]

I have the windplex model w/out side focus on my 6.5x284 (my all around rifle)......have shot out to 400 yds and just didn’t see need for the side focus. Just shoot ALOT and you will be good to go! Best of luck to you.

 

[Tradchef]

I have the standard plex in 40mm. I used it on my .308 this past season. No shots past 200 on game this year but it worked fantastic. 2 mule deer at 150 and 175 and a 5x5 bull at 100. I swapped it out and it’s on my 7 mag barrel now and my vx2 is on the .308. It’s a great scope for sure

 

[Forest]

I have the 4.5-14x40 without the sidefocus. Cds and standard duplex. I really like the clarity and seems to track very well for me. Killed my bull at 470 yards this year and was spot on. To do it over again I'd get the windplex and probably tge 50mm for even more light. Haven't really felt the need for the sidefocus, but it may be great?!?

Sent from my SM-G920R7 using Tapatalk

 

[Matt79]

Ttt

 

[Matt79]

Hey guys,

Can anyone else chime in regarding the side focus of this model?..so think I’m set on the vx3i 4x14x50 with the windplex reticle, but really torn on if I need the side focus or not? I would rather not have it to keep things more simplistic and one less thing to mess with but if it’s gonna cost clarity issues then I’d def go that route. Few guys replied that they didn’t think needed but trying to get as many opinions as possible to help me make up my mind.

Again, any users that can add there opinions or thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

 

[Blockcaver]

My info is dated as I do not have the latest version(s) but have 5 VXIII/VX3 scopes now, all 40 mm objectives. The only one I had issue with was extreme parallax problems with a VX3 4.5-14 without adjustable objective or side focus. I sold it after two trips to Leupold to correct the issue. I wouldn’t buy another of that type based on personal experience.

The 30mm scope with side parallax adj is superior optically to my eye versus the 1” scope with objective lens parallax adjustments.

Note that I use them on varmint rifles including a .204 R, .22BR, 22-6mm AI, ..17 FB and even a .22LR. Shot prairie dogs to 800+ yds with them and some small groups At the range.

Just as a comment, for a big game scope I’d buy a 3.5-10x40 (no parallax adjustment) 1” scope. Will do it for big game with no fuss. Easier scope to get behind (eye box is less critical). Mine resides on an accurate Cooper .17 HMR but is one of my favorite scopes. Good luck.

 

[Mr Drysdale]

I am in my third year with a Leupold 4.5 x 14 x 40 VX3i mounted on a Tikka T3 SL in 7RM. No side parallax. I have shot and killed game at 500+ yards with no problem. I have an older VXIII 8.5 x 25 x 50mm with target dot mounted on a Savage Model 12 BVSS in 22-250 that I shoot varments with that does have the side parallax and is needed sometimes when I dial up especially in hot weather.

 

[Outdoorsman12b]

I had the 3.5-10 cds in windplex and sold it. Had tracking issues plus I found the reticle was very hard to actually use for wind as the hash marks are to small and close. Add a bit of mirage into the picture and it was a real struggle.

If you do go that route I would just stick with the duplex and learn my wind hold offs. Th Boone and cricket reticle might be another option for you. As far as 40 vs 50 objective I find the Leupold glass stays pretty bright in that model at max mag in 40.

 

[ReddingArcher]

I’ve got 2 vx3i 4-14x40 with the wind plex reticle and side parallax adjustment and like both of them. I do use the parallax adjustment when shooting longer ranges. I’ve shot my 7-08 out to 500 yards without any issue. I killed my antelope this year at 362 or 382 I can’t remember which. I haven’t had any issues with the scope in low light. With either the 40 or 50 mm objective I’m sure you’d be happy.

 

[catorres1]

Up until recently, my son had the 4.5-14, 40mm, 30mm tube with side focus on his rifle. We use this rifle as his primary hunting rifle, but also for shooting out to 1400 yards. When using the higher powers and shooting way out there, or just trying to shoot tight groups at somewhat longer distances using the higher powers, you want the side focus. Also liked the 30 mm tube as it has alot of elevation. Not needed for 500 yard shooting, but if you decide to take shoot long for fun or practice, it's really nice to have.