Comparing Leupold Optics

[MG5150]

Hello Everyone

I've put a deposit on a new Lithgow 223 and the permit should clear this week some time!

I've already got a Leupold VX3 3.5-10x50mm (firedot) on my 30-06 and I'm very happy with it. I'm doing my research on scopes and hoping to pick up either a Leupold or Zeiss scope but need a 50mm scope so that I can use a thermal clip-on without needing to get a second attachment piece.

I was wondering how big the difference in quality is between the VX 1/Freedom models and the VX3 models?

I understand that you get what you pay for, and have often heard that you should spend as much on glass as you do on the rifle - but would also assume that the entry-level stuff from top brand can still be good quality.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!"

[Die Judicii]

Hello Everyone

I've put a deposit on a new Lithgow 223 and the permit should clear this week some time!

I've already got a Leupold VX3 3.5-10x50mm (firedot) on my 30-06 and I'm very happy with it. I'm doing my research on scopes and hoping to pick up either a Leupold or Zeiss scope but need a 50mm scope so that I can use a thermal clip-on without needing to get a second attachment piece.

I was wondering how big the difference in quality is between the VX 1/Freedom models and the VX3 models?

I understand that you get what you pay for, and have often heard that you should spend as much on glass as you do on the rifle - but would also assume that the entry-level stuff from top brand can still be good quality.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!"

Hi M8,
Seeing as you mentioned Zeiss I'll make my comments for you.
I have posted my findings on these scopes quite a few times in the past,,,,, the most recent is under a thread called "Clipon Thermal" back on 5th June 2023.
In particular the Zeiss Duralyts both illuminated and non illuminated,,,, and the Zeiss Conquests.

When combined with my Pulsar model thermal clipons they are a match made in heaven.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating.

[deye243]

I have had 7 leupolds in the vx3 and vx3i and now I only have one it's on a 22lr and will not buy any more .
These days it's opika 6 element optics ziess and night force for me .

[Total_immortal]

Agreed with deye243, I have 2 leupolds and 2 meopta's, the meopta's were cheaper and are much better. Leupold have a better warranty and are lighter weight but that's about it

[Wapiti]

To answer your question, the VX3i and HD has better glass than the VX Freedom models. But not in any way less to make any difference in whether you will get the shot off any quicker or not.

Comparing VX3HD to VX Freedom in image quality, not much in it if anything to most people's eyes except in very low light. With a clip-on, between the brands it makes no difference because you are looking at a screen, not a natural image.

The difference is apparent in the higher power models in how easy the eyebox is to use, but not to any scope up to 10x anyway. Same applies to any brand though. Magnification goes up, useability when hunting goes down.