I am so glad that there is at least one man on TH-cam, who doesn’t review guns and gear based on what he gets send by companies. Just unbiased content. Appreciate that, Desert Dog!
About 20 years ago, my rifle fell thru my deer stand and landed directly on the eyepiece of the scope. I thought for sure I would be needing a new scope. After shaking my head at my stupidity, I got down out of the stand and picked out a spot on a tree, pulled the trigger and hit exactly where I was aiming. To this day, that scope is still in service and has never lost zero. The scope, Leupold VX3 (1994 model). That's why Leupold is the only scope I will ever buy.
I have the Zeiss V4 3-12x56 It does serve me well. In the eastern woodlands, you do hunt in low light and thick cover. It does everything I require of it. When I was scope shopping, I did compare the VX5 with the Zeiss V4 , I really didn't notice much of a difference in glass quality with my eyes. I did notice the Zeiss seemed a little bit more solid. I preferred the capped turrets in thick cover.
There's about 10 scopes in the $960-$1,700 range from the US and Europe that I'm looking at and there's basically no way I'm going to be able to compare them side-by-side, which is why your video is so helpful. I'm looking at stuff from Leica, Steiner, Swarovski, Trijicon, Nightforce, Leupold, different mag ranges, reticles and turrets. As you said, the Leupolds have all the features but warrantees don't fix your scope when you're out in the woods. Thanks for the video DDO, instant favorite.
Great review. Really appreciate your balance on each option. I typically lean toward only 1 of the brands you reviewed. You made me think about some valid options where I could/should expand my optics choice.
Thanks for another good video. As a hunter of 30 years, I appreciate your content, very obvious you have hunted many times based on your spot on advice. Too many content creators reviews are not a true hunters perspective. I think the Leupold VX3 3.5x10x42 is the best bang for the buck but still very darn good optics. I have that on my Model 70 SG 30-06 walnut deer rifle. My featherweight Model 70 .308 has a Leupold VX3 2-7-32. Both scopes have low turrets, no big adjustable stuff for me, I sight in at 200 yards and just put the crosshairs on them, use my duplex reticle to range the deer based on shoulder height, , I put the crosshairs on the back if I know it is a 300 ish shot, do not try and shoot past 350 or so.
This is the best video I’ve seen on this topic. I’ve been very frustrated today watching way too many videos that you can just tell are industry plant videos… style over substance. Thank you very much for this excellent video.
I appreciate your honesty and enjoy your videos. At 70 I also remember when you only had a few scopes to choose from and even a Tasco was a good hunting scope. Weaver was my favorite. I wish Trijicon would offer a simple hunting reticle in the Credo you reviewed. I also love the zoom range and objective size of this scope but the reticles are just too busy for me. Again thanks for your informative videos and Merry Christmas
Love these videos on scopes and optics. Where I am these late deer seasons, heavy snow fall, and thick timber ( 50 yards max ) have me back on the peep sights of a short carbine. Though I do love the low power and capabilities they offer in low light and at distance. Great videos, we appreciate the content.
Very nice video! I think that most American hunters stick with Leupold, from the feedback comments that I’ve read on various channels. Thanks for covering the short cuts that Leupold is taking, in recent times, to remain competitive and provide what the market wants. Even if that’s not ideal from a durability standpoint. I’ve got an old Leupold 1.5-5 x 20, when they were built like tanks, on my 500 A-Square (no muzzle brake). That rifle has the most recoil of any DGR caliber/cartridge that I’ve ever shot and I’ve shot quite a few. But, I’ve never once had a problem with that old Leupold scope! I’m sure they don’t build ‘em like that anymore!
Hi. I am glad that I watched this one in particular. I've always been a Leupold man. But, all of my leupolds are mostly old ones. I do have a vx 3i, 4.5 -14 x40mm and have no complaints. I will do some research now because I was planning on getting a vx 5hd for a rifle. It doesn't mean that I still won't but I will research it. Thanks for your videos. I love them. Mike
What you pointed out last is the dilemma I have when choosing a scope. No one scope has the qualities I look for, so when I buy a scope, I always compromise. For the money you pay for a high-end scope, you should not have to compromise. It is very frustrating. Larry from Texas
Excellent video! I’ve actually had excellent experience with Sightron S-TAC scopes, very durable, glass much better than Nightforce, accurate dial system which always returns to zero, and very durable. Sightron doesn’t advertise which cuts their cost. I’ve never had one lose zero even though I’ve been a little rough in them. No, they don’t cost $1000 but they are about $500. I also have a few Zeiss Conquests and some of the older Leupolds and a number of old steel tube Weavers which have been refurbished by Vintage Gun Scopes. All of the scopes I have suit the purpose for hunting.
My issue with the Leupold VX5 and VX6 lines are that they are only offered with MOA turrets. All of my target rifles wear Mil based scopes. And my hunting scopes being the same is a must for me.
The VX5 is the way to go under $1,000. I have been buying 60+ years and I have stock in there company since I only buy Leupold when it comes to buying new! I have about 20-30 now ranging from VX6 to the cheaper leupolds like the VX2 but I have owned hundreds of leupolds and I give away most scopes I get on my used guns and put leupolds on them. And your right about 44mm objective for keeping the scope down low!
I agree with 95% of your video. You are probably correct that most hunters prefer the duplex reticle, but if you try a German #4 or #4A reticle, you’ll never go back. For dangerous game to whitetails it’s by far my favorite. Keep up the good reviews.
I've used many scopes with the #4 reticle. The buck I shot last month was with a Zeiss scope with German reticle. That said, I prefer the Leupold-style duplex over the German reticles. The Duplex draws the eyes into the middle faster, and is easier to use for ranging/holds.
@desertdogoutdoors1113 the 4ai reticel doesn't look like any of the zeiss reticel, 4ai from Swarovski have thin reticel and a black dott in the middle that's become orange when illuminated,precise like a target scoope and fast like the aimpoint. Best scope and reticel on the market in my opinion and I have spent 50-100k$ on scopes
I haven’t watched the video yet (but I’m about to) I’ve had great luck with Leupold scopes in the field and before I got into that, the Bushnell elite series (4200) which is made in Japan. I’ve had very bad luck with vortex made for Pennies in far East Asia. They haven’t failed it be the field because they never made it that far. They die on the range. I have a Leupold vari-x ii from the 1980s I believe in 2-7 and it still does very well. Maybe not in low light but it’s reliable. I’ve had good luck with the vx3i, vx3hd, and older scopes. Even the vx-1 stands up well to a 30’06 which gets a lot of trigger time.
Most informative real vid on this subject breaking down what many need to know making decision on these manufacturers products. I just saved money on a product and venturing towards something else where I will gain longevity with reliability feeling better about the choice... DDO... Thank You Very Much...
You make some excellent points about hunting and hunting scopes. Your points about weight vs durability are especially important. I’m encouraged that you think Trijicon is a good choice. I reside and hunt in Virginia where the whitetail population is huge and tag limits are generous. Mostly I hunt hilly terrain. You might not be able to see deer from thirty yards if you’re in a tree stand; because the laurel thickets are very dense. Sometimes the opportunities are long; just seldom. I asked a salesman at a large retailer if they had Trijicon. I’ve used an AccuPoint often in a 1-4. He asked a good question about what I was putting it on. I told him 6 ARC; and then he was focused on the long range potential of the cartridge. Even though I said my shots are as close as twenty feet and out to two hundred fifty yards, he was excited to show me a 4-25 scope priced around $2,300. That scope meets the capabilities of the cartridge; but it’s not appropriate for the task at hand. My hunting just isn’t long range shooting.
Astonishing isn’t it? I know this places me as an old foogy..but we hunted mule deer/antelope back in the 70’s/80’s with 6x scopes…no variable power sometimes with a 4x scope but usually we had 3x9’sx32/36 and took shots out to 300+ - yards..sometimes at 400-ish yards. And we took many many one shot kills and rarely did we take a 2nd shot. What gives??? So now we need built in range finders in our scopes? We have to have turret adjustments for windage and elevation in our scopes because you know…when a 6x6 bull elk steps out of the tree line your adrenaline rush won’t affect your judgement and a elk hunter will take the time to go all the turret adjustments and such when the bull is moving?? It’s horseshit…I guess it’s come down to unskilled shooters trying to compensate for poor hunting abilities/habits. Kind of like bass fishing wannabes using forward looking sonar but really couldn’t catch msny bass if it were not for FLS. We use to practice our off hand shooting skills or prone or sitting etc..on a hilly area over ran with ground squirrels. Yes we had a spotting scope to judge our shots but it was all shooting skills with simple 3x9!s or less..snd we killed a lot of squirrels!! Many at 209-300 plus yardage shots. I’m honestly saying that “The Burger King Affect” is alive and well with todays shooters. What is the Burger King Affect? “They want it your way and you deserve it and you want it now”!! And God knows I’ve witness slob wannabes out hunting trying to do scope adjustments and still so full of Buck fever..well..lord is misses.
I have had excellent results with the Zeiss. Tough as nails. I prefer the 4-16X50. I have one on a 378 Wby Mag that has never lost zero and tracks perfect. By far my favorite scopes from hunting in the Rockies.
Awesome review! I have 2 3-10 SHV's so was curious how you compared it to the others. Thanks for your honest opinion, I'll have to see if I can look through a Trijicon somewhere sometime.
Great video as always. Right now, I’m a lightweight hunting scope guy, and right now there’s almost no competition for the Leupold 2.5-8x36 vx3hd. I have had to send a brand new Redfield and Leupold scope in for warranty, which is disappointing, but they did take care of me.
Great honest review 👍🏻 You and I could share a hunting camp and probably never disagree. I cut my teeth on budget straight 4x and 6x scopes. 6x for varmints and 4x for everything else. When I bought my first 3-9x VX-lll it was a revelation. The older I get the more I enjoy higher magnification, but I also don’t want the Hubble telescope sitting on top of my rifle. Unfortunately it seems Leupold has succumbed to the cost cutting mantra. My dollars nowadays go towards Zeiss and NF.
Thank you for putting this review together. Very timely for me as I am looking for a new scope to replace an old scope that is having some tracking difficulties. I live in hope that a scope manufacturer sees you review and make a that dream hunting scope you suggested at the end of your review. 👍
I agree stalking prey to within a couple hundred yards is better strategy. I'd even say practicing stalking can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on equipment by getting closer, you need less firepower.
I’ve got both sworo and leupold and to be quite honest I like the sworo’s best - but wt. is a large factor in my eastern whitetail picks along with glass early and late in the day - but good video and leupold’s are great scopes- I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another and the warranty is fantastic! Plus as you stated made in the USA.
Just be mindful that the Swaros are just as fragile as the Leupolds. Also, this video is about $1000 scopes, and the Z3 is not a good scope for the money.
@@borkwoof696 The erector assembly on the Z3 is known for poor tracking and for being sensitive to bumps (which is why they changed the design on the Z5, Z6, and Z8). Glass is on par with the modern Credo HX and Zeiss V4. But you get so many features and so much more durability out of a scope like the Trijicon at $1000.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113the reason I hunt with a fixed power scope. May not be 1000 but compairs to those that are. Here in maine most never heard of the company. Meopta and fixed 6 power on top of my 270. The glass is very good. And done in house at Meopta in Czech republic. Company name little goofy lol but man they make some great scopes. I paid just over 600 and glass compairs to most 1000 scopes. And no internals to screw tracking up. I just sight in inch an half high at 100 and call it good. :) great channel I learn a ton on here and always no bull. Keep up the great work.
WOW! That was a great review. Sadly I just bought a new Leupold ($1000) and did not know about the durability and tracking issues. Most of my scopes are 20+ year old Leupolds and never had any issues other than stiff power adjustment rings.
Vortex HD LHT 3-15x42 is a scope worth considering. It does seem to be creeping up in price from first release. Thank you for the great video as always!
Those are well above the $1000 price category (quite frankly, overpriced for what you get). If you like that scope, the Trijicon Credo HX will blow you away (and won't suffer Vortex quality issues).
Yeah they were a decent buy at $1000 but Vortex gets crazy with pricing. That scope is now $1400 retail. It’s Jap glass but the turret sucks. I own two and will likely sell them. Their old LH has phenomenal glass too but were vastly overpriced as well. That’s one of the reasons they were discontinued
2-10 and 3-15 magnification range are my favorite. My goto rifle is now a Howa Superlite in .308 weighing under 6 lbs scoped. I ditched the rail and put Talley one pieces on it. I wholeheartedly agree with the single red dot in the center of the reticle.
Leopold 3.6-18x was on my list of scopes that I was considering buying because of its weight. I tried to find out why they were lightweight, and the results purchased Brownells MPO 3-18x50mm, and yes, it's not a hunting scope, the buy was for tactical reasons with the figures the scope came with the price at $632.00 sale cost.
I can say that the majority of my hunting, I have the magnification on the higher end. This is also area of hunting specific, in the Midwest you have more stalking your prey. On the other hand in the south (where I hunt) we do more stand hunting than stalking
I once again agree. But i like a reticle. I like it is a tree type so I can do holdovers. But not too busy. The cost of high-end scopes is just thieves. 1200 to 1500 is the top I would spend. Of course, most of my rifles are 1200 to 1800. I am going to do a build ounce in a lifetime custom to keep and hand down like my grandfather did for me.
I've watched this video quite a few times over the last 3-4 months, along with several others related to getting into my first "build". I just ordered the little brother to your Zeiss, the V4 V 3-12x44. I think it will have the same configuration as yours (duplex-style center illuminated dot), but the Amazon interface is a little confusing, so I won't know for sure until it arrives. In any case I think I'll like this scope very much for my first. I'm using a Howa barreled action in 7mm-08. I haven't decided on the stock yet. Also, I'll keep notes and when I've done some shooting and reloading I'll send along a report via email. Thanks for your excellent videos.
BTW, I'm Chris Lxxxxx Channel 98.6 is the name I chose for posting stuff myself, which I haven't gotten around to at this point. TH-cam seems to have merged me with that name.
I own two tract scopes and 1 leupold around the $800 range. As well as a zeiss conquest that came in just under 1200. Very happy with all but the long term durability I think will go to the tract, it is on the heavier side and seems well built. Leupold seems to have the brighter image but clarity in my opinion goes to the tract and zeiss.
Tract seems like a good company, and they have been listening to customers and fixing some of the issues over the last couple of years. I think they might come on strong in the future. They do give away tons of free scopes to influencers for puff reviews, so we have to look past that and let their scopes pass the test of time.
I have 3 vx-5hd’s. 2 3-15x44 and 1 3-15x56. Fortunately, I’ve had no tracking issues with them (consistently shoot out to 800 yards). I have also had a Zeiss v4 4-16x50, and it tracked great as well (sold it because I liked the vx-5hd’s better, but it was a great scope.
Also, had a 4-24x50 Trijicon Accupoint. Sold it to my cousin. Dialed great, but I liked the vx-5hd better solely because it was much better in low light. The glass on the vx-5hd is exceptional in low light for the money.
Great video and I agree with your choices. There are 2 more scopes that I would have add to the review. The Sig Sauer Tango and the Sightron SIII series, also phenomenal scopes with great glass and perfect tracking every time!
The quality Japan-made Sightron scopes (SIII and S6) have magnification that is too high for hunting (they are pure tactical scopes). The lower quality Philippines scopes are made at the same factory as a dozen other cheap Philippines scopes. The Sigs are poor quality until you get to the Tango series, which again are tactical scopes with either horribly cluttered Christmas tree reticles, or reticles that aren't even visible on low power. This video is about the best $1000 DEER HUNTING scope.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 yes depending the terrain and type of hunt you do. Here in the desert southwest we don't hunt deer from treestands and you wont use those scopes on a ground blind either so those scopes work excellent on elk, mule and coues deer hunts where 300 to 600 yard shots are very common. So we must must match our equipment to the type of hunt and terrain we do!
Ive been happy with my Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42 When i bought mine it was about $900 but that was a couple years ago. *Edit.. 1.) Leupolds fine duplex is the best plain jane reticle ive seen 2.) I dont turn turrets and my shots rarely approach 300 yd
I think you’d be pleased with Leica. You can pick up the Amplus 6 2.5-15 for under $1000 from EuroOptic and even less used. I got a used one for $800 and put it next to my VX5HD’s. I think I’ll be slowly switching away from that.
I love my Kahles 3-9x42; Kahles and Schmidt Bender are the best glass on the market. Unfortunately, Kahles no longer sells hunting scopes in North America due to a business agreement with Swarovski. If you want a nice Kahles, the internet is the best place to find them. Be careful of what you look at though. Schmidt Bender sells their Klassic series and a few of them are less than a grand! The Leupold scopes have a great customer service and support department! Leupold stands behind their products! I’ve never had any issues with any of my Kahles scopes; I guess they have a decent repair shop, never had to deal with them! Great reviews!
When I did my CDS for my .30-06 they called me to correct and confirm what I’d typed, I didn’t put the 3 so it looked like 0-06. Because of that I’ll always go Leupold, they could’ve just sent the dial with whatever I’d said to put on it then charged me for a corrected one
I can’t speak for their scopes, but I’ve been hunting with some compact Maven binos for probably 5 years now, nothing but good in my opinion. I’ve also been beating on a compact Maven spotter for work for 3 years now, nothing but good there too.
In the Adirondacks of the Northeast we can't see or shoot past 100 yards. Most shots are 50 yards and in. So long eye relief and the scope set on the low setting.
Very good content. After watching this video, it made me have a little buyers remorse. Recently purchased leupold 6HD. Makes me wonder if 6HD suffers from the same issues as a 5HD. I guess only time will tell. Back in the day when I first started buying guns and getting really big into hunting. I bought a lot of the cheap Simmons Bushnell scopes had nothing but horrible luck with them. I quickly learned you get what you pay for.
Absolutely love your videos, you were the reason I bought a win 70 in 416 and now this video is just perfect.... I was so confused about all the $1k scopes (and there are MANY) but you narrowed it down to the big four!.... My question is, where does the higher end Burris scopes hold up to these four? Burris makes some robust scopes, wanted to hear your opinion
The Credo HX 2.5-15x42 vs the vx5hd is a good comparison. I got the VX5 because I couldn't find a Credo HX to look at the reticle which appears to fully illuminate their windage and elevation holds.
Very interesting vid. Leupold scopes are well trusted here in New Zealand and will handle most abuse north of dropping on rocks….I love the glass and light weight and dont dial. ( mushy turret clicks!). Thanx DD!
Wow, what good is any dial-up scope that doesn't track? A favorite scope of mine is the Trijicon 2.5 - 10X56 mil dot reticle. Good eye relief. Bright. Self illuminated. It's not too heavy, and so far, reliable and accurate. I know the objective is big, but even at 10X, the exit puple is more than 5mm. On my 300 RUM, if I needed to shoot further than 400 yards, I just crank it up to 10X and use the mil dots. No battery. No parallax adjust is needed with 10X. No dialing. A simple, reliable hunting scope.
I agree with you on the low magnification. I’ve taken a surprise shot at around 50 yards (roughly) and my minimum magnification was 4.5c. The entire view was hair. Far too much. These days, I prefer 2-3x at the low end. The top end? I don’t care. I’ll never use higher than 7 because I like a large exit pupil for better low light and easier alignment when bringing to shoulder.
FFP scopes are definitely a younger guy thing is what im noticing. I'm saying this as a younger guy. (I'm 23) I think it comes down to young guys want a scope and rifle they can target/shoot in a match and also hunt with. I'm also from montana, so 300-400 yard shots aren't out of the question(though i prefer inside of 300). You have great points on what makes a good hunting scope and good choices. I'm also color blind so sometimes (a little rare) i have a hard time tracking illuminated reticles. My preference is 3-15 FFP and non-illuminated. Usually here where I hunt if its too dark for a full black reticle, its too dark to ID the animal.
I picked up a Trijicon Credo 2.5-10x 50 a few years back on sale for $700 something. I love everything about it except i wish they had put a 42 or 44 lens on sale as my scope sits a little higher than id like for a deer rifle scope. My brother in law has a $2k Swarvorski scope and its no comparison to my Trijicon. I actually had to use his gun to take a deer literally 10 seconds before the light was gone. I just couldn’t see the deer in my Trijicon. I looked thru his and I almost spooked the deer when I said, “Holy shit!” It was that much better.
One thing I have to accept, and many hunters have a hard time doing, is acknowledging our limits or what we will be doing. The Leupold may not be as durable, but if I drop it they’ll fix it and that’s pretty important. But will I be trekking across mountains and scaling cliffs? No, no I won’t. I hunt white tail in Oklahoma, may get to do an elk hunt here which is the same game just a bigger target. Should I get to go west and get some rugged hunting in I’m confident my Leupolds will hold up. If I go tumbling down a mountain with my rifle I am very much less concerned how my scope will turn out for sure
Sold all my leupolds. Can not get behing them anymore and have owned a conquest. I have a fixed power GPO Spectra 7.5x50mm on my primary hunting rifle(Sauer 100 classic .308) Has a fantastic #4 style reticle with true daytime usable illumination and is VERY bright and clear. Fast and no nonsense scope with a HUGE field of view. A steal for 450$ bought from across the pond online. Glass is as good as the credo but brighter. Almost as tough as the conquests. The Spectras punch way above their weight. As does the meopta optika series but they are pretty fugly haha
Can you please do an update after shotshow? I’m holding off buying a scope till then. Also, have you tested a veracity PH? I think they’re US made also.
I no longer attend the SHOT show. It has deviated away from hunting and is 99% tactical crap now. I also don't review products that I've never used in the field. For that, I recommend a channel like "Backfire".
Maven obviously wasn't included. How does Maven as a brand stack up? Beyond that, now I'm going to take a careful look at my VX5 and put it through its paces before next season. Thank you as always!
The Japanese-made Mavens seem just as good as the various other brands that come out of the same factory (which is a compliment). Maven has been selling scopes for less than 5 years (just like most of the brands coming out of that factory flooding influencer mailboxes), so I'm not sure how long they'll be in the scope business in this oversaturated market. I really like their spotting scopes for the price. Their cheaper Philippines scopes with Chinese glass are not impressive to me (just like the other scopes out of that factory). I've always avoided the "boutique" optics companies that add their styling to a generic product line at an Asian factory; but some of them are perking my interest as of late.
You established a good set of criteria for a hunting scope. So much content is geared toward “tactical rifles” (whatever that is and when exactly would you use one?). I really liked that you addressed the typical trade offs, for example weight vs. durability. Best of all, your conclusion wasn’t “X scope is the one!” I am curious why you dismissed Steiner though. Their Predator 4 2.5-10x42 scope is in your price zone. It is intended for hunting, and the glass is very nice. Was the reticle too cluttered for you? I’m in the “keep it simple and clean” camp, but I don’t find this reticle too busy. Plus it’s made in Colorado as far as I can tell. Please note: if I am a fan boy of any one brand, it would be Leupold. Your comments about *how* they get the weight so low concern me some and will make me look at alternatives more carefully.
I don't own a Steiner Predator 4 2.5-10x42, so it wasn't included in the review. BUT, I actually handled one just before I bought my first Nightforce SHV. I was kind of torn between the two scopes at first because the are pretty much the same size, weight, and had similar quality glass (in a well lit convention center anyway). They even have the same illuminated "cross". In the end, I liked the duplex reticle of the SHV better than the Steiner BDC reticle. Also the Steiner turrets felt mushy and cheap compared to the SHV turrets. So, I went with the SHV. Both scopes were $900 when I looked at them.
I’ve hunted heavy bush all my life deer bear moose. A 1+4 power is just fine for such conditions. Most shots are 40-50 yards. Choose your caliber, rifle, bullet construction and scope for the task at hand. Great video.
My budget Burris scopes have been killing game every season for over 20years. In the worst elements a scope can be hunted in and I've seen nothing but success. Would it be nice to have a 1000 $ plus scope? yes but it's for from a must as I've proven several animals and seasons later.
Me too. I will never claim my Bushnell Elite is a high end scope, it was simply the best I could do at the time as a new hunter. Desert Dog, are there any entry level ($300-$500) scopes you recommend for the aspiring new hunter?
I have torqued scope rings to 15in lbs my whole life and never had one come loose or lose zero. Loctite and 15 that’s all I do. But I clean screws with denatured alcohol first.
Desert dog have you looked at the meopta scopes. There made in the Czech Republic. The glass is outstanding. Tracks awesome. It is a little heavy but it’s built like a tank. There not $1000 dollars only about $600.they make the whole scope including the glass. I think they are a bargain for what you get. I was just wondering if you have seen them and if so what you thought. Love your videos brother, live free and be safe
Their budget scopes are good for the price, but don't compare to the $1000 optics reviewed in this video. The full-featured Japanese scopes are a step above the Czech scopes. The Zeiss Conquest line made a major step up in quality when they moved from the Meopta plant to Japan. Meopta makes most of the "Cabelas Brand" scopes.
Most of my scopes are Zeiss, Leupold, Nightforce, Leica. I did pick up 2 ARKENS for $329 each on sale, both first focal plane. they are the E series and I was told Japanese glass but made in China. I'll see how they do. I had never heard of Arken until this year.
Nice! You’re not a glutton with biased views based on cash and free prizes. I don’t ever see me with a lighted reticle. Too much fiddle factor. I’d rather put my money in quality and other features. You popped by Leupold bubble on quality. I know they have a good lifetime warranty. And I thought the NF had higher magnification. Bummer.
I own 3x9 power and 3.5x10 scopes on my deer rifles. I' ve more often needed lower magnification than 3X than I needed higher magnification than 9X in brushy and wooded terrain. I've missed out on trophy bucks because I could not pick them up in the scope fast enough. Another thing I hate is big bulky heavy scopes that look like stove pipe bazooka tube plumbing . They throw the balance of the rifle off and prevent a good cheek weld to the stock because one has to mount them high to prevent the objective bell from contacting the barrel. Occular bell and power adjusrment ring are so large the bolt handle hits them when chambering a round. The 2x7 and 1x4 variable scopes may be the best hunting rifle scopes. Look what the great hunters in the past used like Jack O'Connor. Optics today are far superior to what was available to them. They did more with fixed 4X scopes than what we do with our big variable scopes today.
I just purchased the same zeiss that you showed in this video. I did not realize the reticle in this would have a goldish black hue to it which tells me the reticle is not Lazer etched. Is yours the same way?
The Accupoint does (but most people don't like the tritium/fiber optic illumination, which is why the Credo is more popular). The Huron is a noticeable downgrade in glass and turret construction.
If you want to get Meopta scopes even cheaper, buy the cheap "Cabelas Brand" scopes (which are rebranded Meoptas). I've seen them for dirt cheap in the Cabelas bargain cave.
Trijicon credo 3-9x40 capped turrets, same ruggedness and quality for a street price of 600. That's a scope that meets the needs for 90% of hunters at a affordable price.
You make a number of valid points. But first and foremost a scope must be a gunsight. I don't care how bright a scope is, it must offer excellent eye relief and it must always maintain zero. You can have a fantastic optical instrument but if the scope is too bulky and heavy it ruins the balance of the rifle. So a proper hunting scope must: 1. Offer excellent eye relief 2. Always hold zero 3. Be properly balanced on the rifle Optical quality is important but there are other aspects that are even more important.
I am so glad that there is at least one man on TH-cam, who doesn’t review guns and gear based on what he gets send by companies. Just unbiased content. Appreciate that, Desert Dog!
Like they guys who hunt with a rifle and do a review as part of the video but forget to mention how much they appreciate the $0 price
About 20 years ago, my rifle fell thru my deer stand and landed directly on the eyepiece of the scope. I thought for sure I would be needing a new scope. After shaking my head at my stupidity, I got down out of the stand and picked out a spot on a tree, pulled the trigger and hit exactly where I was aiming. To this day, that scope is still in service and has never lost zero. The scope, Leupold VX3 (1994 model). That's why Leupold is the only scope I will ever buy.
Different story today.
@@1valgUnfortunately correct
You're an idiot if you think they're producing that same quality today haha
Desert Dog explains simply what I spend countless hours researching on the net for the right/proven hunting equipment. Awesome channel. Great job!!
I have the Zeiss V4 3-12x56 It does serve me well. In the eastern woodlands, you do hunt in low light and thick cover. It does everything I require of it. When I was scope shopping, I did compare the VX5 with the Zeiss V4 , I really didn't notice much of a difference in glass quality with my eyes. I did notice the Zeiss seemed a little bit more solid. I preferred the capped turrets in thick cover.
I have same scope on my Rem 700 BDL in 22-250. My scope is illuminated. It is my night rifel. For predators.
Thanks for your great unbiased review, it’s very rare to find upstanding people that don’t sell out!
There's about 10 scopes in the $960-$1,700 range from the US and Europe that I'm looking at and there's basically no way I'm going to be able to compare them side-by-side, which is why your video is so helpful. I'm looking at stuff from Leica, Steiner, Swarovski, Trijicon, Nightforce, Leupold, different mag ranges, reticles and turrets. As you said, the Leupolds have all the features but warrantees don't fix your scope when you're out in the woods. Thanks for the video DDO, instant favorite.
Man. That was a damn good review. I have a Leupold VX 5 HD just like the one shown. It's good to know those do's and dont's.
Great review. Really appreciate your balance on each option. I typically lean toward only 1 of the brands you reviewed. You made me think about some valid options where I could/should expand my optics choice.
Great presentation, straight up, honest stuff - based on experience. Very helpful information. Thanks DD.
Thanks for another good video. As a hunter of 30 years, I appreciate your content, very obvious you have hunted many times based on your spot on advice. Too many content creators reviews are not a true hunters perspective. I think the Leupold VX3 3.5x10x42 is the best bang for the buck but still very darn good optics. I have that on my Model 70 SG 30-06 walnut deer rifle. My featherweight Model 70 .308 has a Leupold VX3 2-7-32. Both scopes have low turrets, no big adjustable stuff for me, I sight in at 200 yards and just put the crosshairs on them, use my duplex reticle to range the deer based on shoulder height, , I put the crosshairs on the back if I know it is a 300 ish shot, do not try and shoot past 350 or so.
I bought a 3.5 x 10x50 zeiss 15 years ago and set it in. Still taking white tail today. Love it
This is the best video I’ve seen on this topic. I’ve been very frustrated today watching way too many videos that you can just tell are industry plant videos… style over substance. Thank you very much for this excellent video.
I worked in a gun shop for 12 years.
Wow, you couldn’t have said anything better about hunting scopes! Well done Sir.
Love my leupold vx-3hd. Wish I could get my hands on a mark 4 like I used in service.
3s and 4s are great 5s and 6s arw hit and miss
I appreciate your honesty and enjoy your videos. At 70 I also remember when you only had a few scopes to choose from and even a Tasco was a good hunting scope. Weaver was my favorite. I wish Trijicon would offer a simple hunting reticle in the Credo you reviewed. I also love the zoom range and objective size of this scope but the reticles are just too busy for me. Again thanks for your informative videos and Merry Christmas
Tascos with Japanese optics are some of the best scope for the money, still to this day. Them and Nikkon.
@@camojoe83those world class scopes with the silver pronghorn head on the side were a lot of bang for the buck.
This is one of the best videos I’ve seen about optics. Durability was my top concern and this convinced me to get the Nightforce over the VX-5.
This is the best rifle scope video I’ve seen. Thanks.
Love these videos on scopes and optics.
Where I am these late deer seasons, heavy snow fall, and thick timber ( 50 yards max ) have me back on the peep sights of a short carbine. Though I do love the low power and capabilities they offer in low light and at distance.
Great videos, we appreciate the content.
Very nice video! I think that most American hunters stick with Leupold, from the feedback comments that I’ve read on various channels. Thanks for covering the short cuts that Leupold is taking, in recent times, to remain competitive and provide what the market wants. Even if that’s not ideal from a durability standpoint. I’ve got an old Leupold 1.5-5 x 20, when they were built like tanks, on my 500 A-Square (no muzzle brake). That rifle has the most recoil of any DGR caliber/cartridge that I’ve ever shot and I’ve shot quite a few. But, I’ve never once had a problem with that old Leupold scope! I’m sure they don’t build ‘em like that anymore!
Thank you for this video. I just got my license, lifetime sportsman’s license and a savage 110 in .300 win mag. Now I know what scope to put on it
Hi. I am glad that I watched this one in particular. I've always been a Leupold man. But, all of my leupolds are mostly old ones. I do have a vx 3i, 4.5 -14 x40mm and have no complaints. I will do some research now because I was planning on getting a vx 5hd for a rifle. It doesn't mean that I still won't but I will research it. Thanks for your videos. I love them. Mike
What you pointed out last is the dilemma I have when choosing a scope. No one scope has the qualities I look for, so when I buy a scope, I always compromise. For the money you pay for a high-end scope, you should not have to compromise. It is very frustrating.
Larry from Texas
Your honesty is refreshing
Totally agree I hate busy reticles I wish more did something like Boone and Crockett
Excellent video! I’ve actually had excellent experience with Sightron S-TAC scopes, very durable, glass much better than Nightforce, accurate dial system which always returns to zero, and very durable. Sightron doesn’t advertise which cuts their cost. I’ve never had one lose zero even though I’ve been a little rough in them. No, they don’t cost $1000 but they are about $500. I also have a few Zeiss Conquests and some of the older Leupolds and a number of old steel tube Weavers which have been refurbished by Vintage Gun Scopes. All of the scopes I have suit the purpose for hunting.
Very fine scopes!!
Pick up the Nightforce SHV after this video. Love the glass, adjustments, and the red dot feature. Thank you for the recommendation!
My issue with the Leupold VX5 and VX6 lines are that they are only offered with MOA turrets. All of my target rifles wear Mil based scopes. And my hunting scopes being the same is a must for me.
I like my NightForce NX8 2.5-20 mounted on my 300 Win Mag. Thanks for another fantastic video! All your videos that I have seen have been superb!
I just feel it’s sad American companies have to sacrifice quality reliability at 1000 dollars there no excuse to have a issue at that price
The VX5 is the way to go under $1,000. I have been buying 60+ years and I have stock in there company since I only buy Leupold when it comes to buying new! I have about 20-30 now ranging from VX6 to the cheaper leupolds like the VX2 but I have owned hundreds of leupolds and I give away most scopes I get on my used guns and put leupolds on them. And your right about 44mm objective for keeping the scope down low!
I agree with 95% of your video. You are probably correct that most hunters prefer the duplex reticle, but if you try a German #4 or #4A reticle, you’ll never go back. For dangerous game to whitetails it’s by far my favorite. Keep up the good reviews.
I've used many scopes with the #4 reticle. The buck I shot last month was with a Zeiss scope with German reticle. That said, I prefer the Leupold-style duplex over the German reticles. The Duplex draws the eyes into the middle faster, and is easier to use for ranging/holds.
@desertdogoutdoors1113 the 4ai reticel doesn't look like any of the zeiss reticel, 4ai from Swarovski have thin reticel and a black dott in the middle that's become orange when illuminated,precise like a target scoope and fast like the aimpoint. Best scope and reticel on the market in my opinion and I have spent 50-100k$ on scopes
I haven’t watched the video yet (but I’m about to)
I’ve had great luck with Leupold scopes in the field and before I got into that, the Bushnell elite series (4200) which is made in Japan.
I’ve had very bad luck with vortex made for Pennies in far East Asia. They haven’t failed it be the field because they never made it that far. They die on the range.
I have a Leupold vari-x ii from the 1980s I believe in 2-7 and it still does very well. Maybe not in low light but it’s reliable.
I’ve had good luck with the vx3i, vx3hd, and older scopes. Even the vx-1 stands up well to a 30’06 which gets a lot of trigger time.
Most informative real vid on this subject breaking down what many need to know making decision on these manufacturers products. I just saved money on a product and venturing towards something else where I will gain longevity with reliability feeling better about the choice... DDO... Thank You Very Much...
You make some excellent points about hunting and hunting scopes. Your points about weight vs durability are especially important. I’m encouraged that you think Trijicon is a good choice. I reside and hunt in Virginia where the whitetail population is huge and tag limits are generous. Mostly I hunt hilly terrain. You might not be able to see deer from thirty yards if you’re in a tree stand; because the laurel thickets are very dense. Sometimes the opportunities are long; just seldom. I asked a salesman at a large retailer if they had Trijicon. I’ve used an AccuPoint often in a 1-4. He asked a good question about what I was putting it on. I told him 6 ARC; and then he was focused on the long range potential of the cartridge. Even though I said my shots are as close as twenty feet and out to two hundred fifty yards, he was excited to show me a 4-25 scope priced around $2,300. That scope meets the capabilities of the cartridge; but it’s not appropriate for the task at hand. My hunting just isn’t long range shooting.
Astonishing isn’t it? I know this places me as an old foogy..but we hunted mule deer/antelope back in the 70’s/80’s with 6x scopes…no variable power sometimes with a 4x scope but usually we had 3x9’sx32/36 and took shots out to 300+ - yards..sometimes at 400-ish yards. And we took many many one shot kills and rarely did we take a 2nd shot.
What gives??? So now we need built in range finders in our scopes? We have to have turret adjustments for windage and elevation in our scopes because you know…when a 6x6 bull elk steps out of the tree line your adrenaline rush won’t affect your judgement and a elk hunter will take the time to go all the turret adjustments and such when the bull is moving??
It’s horseshit…I guess it’s come down to unskilled shooters trying to compensate for poor hunting abilities/habits. Kind of like bass fishing wannabes using forward looking sonar but really couldn’t catch msny bass if it were not for FLS.
We use to practice our off hand shooting skills or prone or sitting etc..on a hilly area over ran with ground squirrels. Yes we had a spotting scope to judge our shots but it was all shooting skills with simple 3x9!s or less..snd we killed a lot of squirrels!! Many at 209-300 plus yardage shots.
I’m honestly saying that “The Burger King Affect” is alive and well with todays shooters. What is the Burger King Affect? “They want it your way and you deserve it and you want it now”!!
And God knows I’ve witness slob wannabes out hunting trying to do scope adjustments and still so full of Buck fever..well..lord is misses.
I have had excellent results with the Zeiss. Tough as nails. I prefer the 4-16X50. I have one on a 378 Wby Mag that has never lost zero and tracks perfect. By far my favorite scopes from hunting in the Rockies.
Awesome review! I have 2 3-10 SHV's so was curious how you compared it to the others. Thanks for your honest opinion, I'll have to see if I can look through a Trijicon somewhere sometime.
Great comparisons, thank you Desert Dog.
I settled on Leupold vx3 hd 4.5-14x 40mm with a boone and crocket reticle.
Great video as always. Right now, I’m a lightweight hunting scope guy, and right now there’s almost no competition for the Leupold 2.5-8x36 vx3hd. I have had to send a brand new Redfield and Leupold scope in for warranty, which is disappointing, but they did take care of me.
Great honest review 👍🏻 You and I could share a hunting camp and probably never disagree. I cut my teeth on budget straight 4x and 6x scopes. 6x for varmints and 4x for everything else. When I bought my first 3-9x VX-lll it was a revelation. The older I get the more I enjoy higher magnification, but I also don’t want the Hubble telescope sitting on top of my rifle. Unfortunately it seems Leupold has succumbed to the cost cutting mantra. My dollars nowadays go towards Zeiss and NF.
Thank you for putting this review together. Very timely for me as I am looking for a new scope to replace an old scope that is having some tracking difficulties.
I live in hope that a scope manufacturer sees you review and make a that dream hunting scope you suggested at the end of your review. 👍
I agree stalking prey to within a couple hundred yards is better strategy.
I'd even say practicing stalking can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on equipment by getting closer, you need less firepower.
I really enjoy my acupoint mil dot 3-9x40 for hunting. Only weighs 13 oz and no batteries.
I’ve got both sworo and leupold and to be quite honest I like the sworo’s best - but wt. is a large factor in my eastern whitetail picks along with glass early and late in the day - but good video and leupold’s are great scopes- I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another and the warranty is fantastic! Plus as you stated made in the USA.
Just be mindful that the Swaros are just as fragile as the Leupolds. Also, this video is about $1000 scopes, and the Z3 is not a good scope for the money.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113what’s the problem with the Z3?
@@borkwoof696 The erector assembly on the Z3 is known for poor tracking and for being sensitive to bumps (which is why they changed the design on the Z5, Z6, and Z8). Glass is on par with the modern Credo HX and Zeiss V4. But you get so many features and so much more durability out of a scope like the Trijicon at $1000.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113the reason I hunt with a fixed power scope. May not be 1000 but compairs to those that are. Here in maine most never heard of the company. Meopta and fixed 6 power on top of my 270. The glass is very good. And done in house at Meopta in Czech republic. Company name little goofy lol but man they make some great scopes. I paid just over 600 and glass compairs to most 1000 scopes. And no internals to screw tracking up. I just sight in inch an half high at 100 and call it good. :) great channel I learn a ton on here and always no bull. Keep up the great work.
WOW! That was a great review. Sadly I just bought a new Leupold ($1000) and did not know about the durability and tracking issues. Most of my scopes are 20+ year old Leupolds and never had any issues other than stiff power adjustment rings.
Vortex HD LHT 3-15x42 is a scope worth considering. It does seem to be creeping up in price from first release. Thank you for the great video as always!
Those are well above the $1000 price category (quite frankly, overpriced for what you get). If you like that scope, the Trijicon Credo HX will blow you away (and won't suffer Vortex quality issues).
Yeah they were a decent buy at $1000 but Vortex gets crazy with pricing. That scope is now $1400 retail. It’s Jap glass but the turret sucks. I own two and will likely sell them. Their old LH has phenomenal glass too but were vastly overpriced as well. That’s one of the reasons they were discontinued
Great finally a honest straight forward advice
2-10 and 3-15 magnification range are my favorite. My goto rifle is now a Howa Superlite in .308 weighing under 6 lbs scoped. I ditched the rail and put Talley one pieces on it.
I wholeheartedly agree with the single red dot in the center of the reticle.
Leopold 3.6-18x was on my list of scopes that I was considering buying because of its weight. I tried to find out why they were lightweight, and the results purchased Brownells MPO 3-18x50mm, and yes, it's not a hunting scope, the buy was for tactical reasons with the figures the scope came with the price at $632.00 sale cost.
I can say that the majority of my hunting, I have the magnification on the higher end. This is also area of hunting specific, in the Midwest you have more stalking your prey. On the other hand in the south (where I hunt) we do more stand hunting than stalking
I once again agree.
But i like a reticle. I like it is a tree type so I can do holdovers.
But not too busy.
The cost of high-end scopes is just thieves. 1200 to 1500 is the top I would spend.
Of course, most of my rifles are 1200 to 1800.
I am going to do a build ounce in a lifetime custom to keep and hand down like my grandfather did for me.
I've watched this video quite a few times over the last 3-4 months, along with several others related to getting into my first "build". I just ordered the little brother to your Zeiss, the V4 V 3-12x44. I think it will have the same configuration as yours (duplex-style center illuminated dot), but the Amazon interface is a little confusing, so I won't know for sure until it arrives. In any case I think I'll like this scope very much for my first. I'm using a Howa barreled action in 7mm-08. I haven't decided on the stock yet. Also, I'll keep notes and when I've done some shooting and reloading I'll send along a report via email. Thanks for your excellent videos.
BTW, I'm Chris Lxxxxx Channel 98.6 is the name I chose for posting stuff myself, which I haven't gotten around to at this point. TH-cam seems to have merged me with that name.
I own two tract scopes and 1 leupold around the $800 range. As well as a zeiss conquest that came in just under 1200. Very happy with all but the long term durability I think will go to the tract, it is on the heavier side and seems well built. Leupold seems to have the brighter image but clarity in my opinion goes to the tract and zeiss.
Tract seems like a good company, and they have been listening to customers and fixing some of the issues over the last couple of years. I think they might come on strong in the future. They do give away tons of free scopes to influencers for puff reviews, so we have to look past that and let their scopes pass the test of time.
@desertdogoutdoors1113 I agree completely, the only reason I knew tract existed is because of ron spomers review a couple years back.
I have 3 vx-5hd’s. 2 3-15x44 and 1 3-15x56. Fortunately, I’ve had no tracking issues with them (consistently shoot out to 800 yards). I have also had a Zeiss v4 4-16x50, and it tracked great as well (sold it because I liked the vx-5hd’s better, but it was a great scope.
Also, had a 4-24x50 Trijicon Accupoint. Sold it to my cousin. Dialed great, but I liked the vx-5hd better solely because it was much better in low light. The glass on the vx-5hd is exceptional in low light for the money.
Great video and I agree with your choices. There are 2 more scopes that I would have add to the review. The Sig Sauer Tango and the Sightron SIII series, also phenomenal scopes with great glass and perfect tracking every time!
The quality Japan-made Sightron scopes (SIII and S6) have magnification that is too high for hunting (they are pure tactical scopes). The lower quality Philippines scopes are made at the same factory as a dozen other cheap Philippines scopes. The Sigs are poor quality until you get to the Tango series, which again are tactical scopes with either horribly cluttered Christmas tree reticles, or reticles that aren't even visible on low power. This video is about the best $1000 DEER HUNTING scope.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 yes depending the terrain and type of hunt you do. Here in the desert southwest we don't hunt deer from treestands and you wont use those scopes on a ground blind either so those scopes work excellent on elk, mule and coues deer hunts where 300 to 600 yard shots are very common. So we must must match our equipment to the type of hunt and terrain we do!
@@maxcoatlhunter4322I mostly hunt the desert Southwest. I haven't taken a shot on a deer or elk over 300 yards in 20 years.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Coues deer?
@@maxcoatlhunter4322 Mule.
the leupold 3x15x44 have a horrible mushy windage dial. i also love the zeiss 3x18
You are correct.
Ive been happy with my Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42
When i bought mine it was about $900 but that was a couple years ago.
*Edit..
1.) Leupolds fine duplex is the best plain jane reticle ive seen
2.) I dont turn turrets and my shots rarely approach 300 yd
I think you’d be pleased with Leica. You can pick up the Amplus 6 2.5-15 for under $1000 from EuroOptic and even less used. I got a used one for $800 and put it next to my VX5HD’s. I think I’ll be slowly switching away from that.
Those have a 56mm objective, though :/
@@borkwoof696 even better!
@@borkwoof696 mine is the 2.5-15x50 but they do make 56.
Hey DDO
You ever tesr the Shepard scopes that have the two reticles?
You used to see them alin the Cabelas catilogs in the 90's
Thx
I love my Kahles 3-9x42; Kahles and Schmidt Bender are the best glass on the market. Unfortunately, Kahles no longer sells hunting scopes in North America due to a business agreement with Swarovski. If you want a nice Kahles, the internet is the best place to find them. Be careful of what you look at though. Schmidt Bender sells their Klassic series and a few of them are less than a grand!
The Leupold scopes have a great customer service and support department! Leupold stands behind their products! I’ve never had any issues with any of my Kahles scopes; I guess they have a decent repair shop, never had to deal with them!
Great reviews!
When I did my CDS for my .30-06 they called me to correct and confirm what I’d typed, I didn’t put the 3 so it looked like 0-06. Because of that I’ll always go Leupold, they could’ve just sent the dial with whatever I’d said to put on it then charged me for a corrected one
I can’t speak for their scopes, but I’ve been hunting with some compact Maven binos for probably 5 years now, nothing but good in my opinion. I’ve also been beating on a compact Maven spotter for work for 3 years now, nothing but good there too.
I agree with you. I picked up a few maven products, and they are great. I think he's missing out by not giving them or tract a shot.
In the Adirondacks of the Northeast we can't see or shoot past 100 yards.
Most shots are 50 yards and in. So long eye relief and the scope set on the low setting.
Very good content. After watching this video, it made me have a little buyers remorse. Recently purchased leupold 6HD. Makes me wonder if 6HD suffers from the same issues as a 5HD. I guess only time will tell. Back in the day when I first started buying guns and getting really big into hunting. I bought a lot of the cheap Simmons Bushnell scopes had nothing but horrible luck with them. I quickly learned you get what you pay for.
Absolutely love your videos, you were the reason I bought a win 70 in 416 and now this video is just perfect.... I was so confused about all the $1k scopes (and there are MANY) but you narrowed it down to the big four!.... My question is, where does the higher end Burris scopes hold up to these four? Burris makes some robust scopes, wanted to hear your opinion
The Credo HX 2.5-15x42 vs the vx5hd is a good comparison. I got the VX5 because I couldn't find a Credo HX to look at the reticle which appears to fully illuminate their windage and elevation holds.
Great job ,,really enjoyed this review
Very interesting vid. Leupold scopes are well trusted here in New Zealand and will handle most abuse north of dropping on rocks….I love the glass and light weight and dont dial. ( mushy turret clicks!). Thanx DD!
Great video. Thanks for the reviews.
Have you tried Trijicon AccuPoint?
Awesome I thought you were only a Leupy guy. I was until recently when I had a failure and switched to the SHV 3-10!
I have no brand loyalty or sponsorships.
Wow, what good is any dial-up scope that doesn't track? A favorite scope of mine is the Trijicon 2.5 - 10X56 mil dot reticle. Good eye relief. Bright. Self illuminated. It's not too heavy, and so far, reliable and accurate. I know the objective is big, but even at 10X, the exit puple is more than 5mm. On my 300 RUM, if I needed to shoot further than 400 yards, I just crank it up to 10X and use the mil dots. No battery. No parallax adjust is needed with 10X. No dialing. A simple, reliable hunting scope.
I agree with you on the low magnification. I’ve taken a surprise shot at around 50 yards (roughly) and my minimum magnification was 4.5c. The entire view was hair. Far too much.
These days, I prefer 2-3x at the low end.
The top end? I don’t care. I’ll never use higher than 7 because I like a large exit pupil for better low light and easier alignment when bringing to shoulder.
Exactly. All these guys hunting with 6-20x scopes have obviously never tried to shoot a deer at 30 yards.
FFP scopes are definitely a younger guy thing is what im noticing. I'm saying this as a younger guy. (I'm 23) I think it comes down to young guys want a scope and rifle they can target/shoot in a match and also hunt with. I'm also from montana, so 300-400 yard shots aren't out of the question(though i prefer inside of 300). You have great points on what makes a good hunting scope and good choices. I'm also color blind so sometimes (a little rare) i have a hard time tracking illuminated reticles. My preference is 3-15 FFP and non-illuminated. Usually here where I hunt if its too dark for a full black reticle, its too dark to ID the animal.
I picked up a Trijicon Credo 2.5-10x 50 a few years back on sale for $700 something. I love everything about it except i wish they had put a 42 or 44 lens on sale as my scope sits a little higher than id like for a deer rifle scope.
My brother in law has a $2k Swarvorski scope and its no comparison to my Trijicon. I actually had to use his gun to take a deer literally 10 seconds before the light was gone. I just couldn’t see the deer in my Trijicon. I looked thru his and I almost spooked the deer when I said, “Holy shit!”
It was that much better.
Glass really does matter. It's just a shame that the scopes with the best glass are so fragile.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 it sure does!
Great video. Thanks for the great work!
Love this video! THANKS!!!
One thing I have to accept, and many hunters have a hard time doing, is acknowledging our limits or what we will be doing. The Leupold may not be as durable, but if I drop it they’ll fix it and that’s pretty important. But will I be trekking across mountains and scaling cliffs? No, no I won’t. I hunt white tail in Oklahoma, may get to do an elk hunt here which is the same game just a bigger target. Should I get to go west and get some rugged hunting in I’m confident my Leupolds will hold up. If I go tumbling down a mountain with my rifle I am very much less concerned how my scope will turn out for sure
Sold all my leupolds. Can not get behing them anymore and have owned a conquest. I have a fixed power GPO Spectra 7.5x50mm on my primary hunting rifle(Sauer 100 classic .308) Has a fantastic #4 style reticle with true daytime usable illumination and is VERY bright and clear. Fast and no nonsense scope with a HUGE field of view. A steal for 450$ bought from across the pond online. Glass is as good as the credo but brighter. Almost as tough as the conquests. The Spectras punch way above their weight. As does the meopta optika series but they are pretty fugly haha
I love the fact that you call out these buffoons that insist on using game as target practice!
Can you please do an update after shotshow? I’m holding off buying a scope till then. Also, have you tested a veracity PH? I think they’re US made also.
I no longer attend the SHOT show. It has deviated away from hunting and is 99% tactical crap now. I also don't review products that I've never used in the field. For that, I recommend a channel like "Backfire".
I understand. That newer Burris is pretty cool for hunting though, electronic display and dials to yardage, not MOA or MIL. @@desertdogoutdoors1113
@kody6921 you definitely won't be mad about getting one I got one a month ago n it works pretty dang good glass is decent
@@kody6921 midway USA has the 4-20×50 on sale for 640 bucks since the Gen 2s have come out
Maven obviously wasn't included. How does Maven as a brand stack up? Beyond that, now I'm going to take a careful look at my VX5 and put it through its paces before next season. Thank you as always!
The Japanese-made Mavens seem just as good as the various other brands that come out of the same factory (which is a compliment). Maven has been selling scopes for less than 5 years (just like most of the brands coming out of that factory flooding influencer mailboxes), so I'm not sure how long they'll be in the scope business in this oversaturated market. I really like their spotting scopes for the price. Their cheaper Philippines scopes with Chinese glass are not impressive to me (just like the other scopes out of that factory). I've always avoided the "boutique" optics companies that add their styling to a generic product line at an Asian factory; but some of them are perking my interest as of late.
You established a good set of criteria for a hunting scope. So much content is geared toward “tactical rifles” (whatever that is and when exactly would you use one?). I really liked that you addressed the typical trade offs, for example weight vs. durability. Best of all, your conclusion wasn’t “X scope is the one!”
I am curious why you dismissed Steiner though. Their Predator 4 2.5-10x42 scope is in your price zone. It is intended for hunting, and the glass is very nice. Was the reticle too cluttered for you? I’m in the “keep it simple and clean” camp, but I don’t find this reticle too busy. Plus it’s made in Colorado as far as I can tell.
Please note: if I am a fan boy of any one brand, it would be Leupold. Your comments about *how* they get the weight so low concern me some and will make me look at alternatives more carefully.
I don't own a Steiner Predator 4 2.5-10x42, so it wasn't included in the review. BUT, I actually handled one just before I bought my first Nightforce SHV. I was kind of torn between the two scopes at first because the are pretty much the same size, weight, and had similar quality glass (in a well lit convention center anyway). They even have the same illuminated "cross". In the end, I liked the duplex reticle of the SHV better than the Steiner BDC reticle. Also the Steiner turrets felt mushy and cheap compared to the SHV turrets. So, I went with the SHV. Both scopes were $900 when I looked at them.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 thanks! That is a useful reply 👍
Man. You have some sweet rifles.
I’ve hunted heavy bush all my life deer bear moose. A 1+4 power is just fine for such conditions. Most shots are 40-50 yards. Choose your caliber, rifle, bullet construction and scope for the task at hand. Great video.
Excellent review!
My budget Burris scopes have been killing game every season for over 20years. In the worst elements a scope can be hunted in and I've seen nothing but success. Would it be nice to have a 1000 $ plus scope? yes but it's for from a must
as I've proven several animals and seasons later.
Considering I only have sub $300 Korean bushnells, I really enjoy your show 🐐
Me too. I will never claim my Bushnell Elite is a high end scope, it was simply the best I could do at the time as a new hunter. Desert Dog, are there any entry level ($300-$500) scopes you recommend for the aspiring new hunter?
Excellent info 👌
I have torqued scope rings to 15in lbs my whole life and never had one come loose or lose zero. Loctite and 15 that’s all I do. But I clean screws with denatured alcohol first.
Desert dog have you looked at the meopta scopes. There made in the Czech Republic. The glass is outstanding. Tracks awesome. It is a little heavy but it’s built like a tank. There not $1000 dollars only about $600.they make the whole scope including the glass. I think they are a bargain for what you get. I was just wondering if you have seen them and if so what you thought. Love your videos brother, live free and be safe
Agreed. Killer value scopes with the one drawback being weight.
Their budget scopes are good for the price, but don't compare to the $1000 optics reviewed in this video. The full-featured Japanese scopes are a step above the Czech scopes. The Zeiss Conquest line made a major step up in quality when they moved from the Meopta plant to Japan. Meopta makes most of the "Cabelas Brand" scopes.
Most of my scopes are Zeiss, Leupold, Nightforce, Leica. I did pick up 2 ARKENS for $329 each on sale, both first focal plane. they are the E series and I was told Japanese glass but made in China. I'll see how they do. I had never heard of Arken until this year.
Nice! You’re not a glutton with biased views based on cash and free prizes.
I don’t ever see me with a lighted reticle. Too much fiddle factor. I’d rather put my money in quality and other features.
You popped by Leupold bubble on quality. I know they have a good lifetime warranty. And I thought the NF had higher magnification. Bummer.
I own 3x9 power and 3.5x10 scopes on my deer rifles. I' ve more often needed lower magnification than 3X than I needed higher magnification than 9X in brushy and wooded terrain.
I've missed out on trophy bucks because I could not pick them up in the scope fast enough. Another thing I hate is big bulky heavy scopes that look like stove pipe bazooka tube plumbing . They throw the balance of the rifle off and prevent a good cheek weld to the stock because one has to mount them high to prevent the objective bell from contacting the barrel. Occular bell and power adjusrment ring are so large the bolt handle hits them when chambering a round. The 2x7 and 1x4 variable scopes may be the best hunting rifle scopes. Look what the great hunters in the past used like Jack O'Connor. Optics today are far superior to what was available to them. They did more with fixed 4X scopes than what we do with our big variable scopes today.
I just purchased the same zeiss that you showed in this video. I did not realize the reticle in this would have a goldish black hue to it which tells me the reticle is not Lazer etched. Is yours the same way?
Log time viewer here !! Do the trijicon Accupoint and Huron have the same durability/clarity as the credo? Thanks Desert Dog.
The Accupoint does (but most people don't like the tritium/fiber optic illumination, which is why the Credo is more popular). The Huron is a noticeable downgrade in glass and turret construction.
I like my meopta optica6, sub $1000, great glass quality.
If you want to get Meopta scopes even cheaper, buy the cheap "Cabelas Brand" scopes (which are rebranded Meoptas). I've seen them for dirt cheap in the Cabelas bargain cave.
Many of these scopes have already (10% min) greatly increased in price. Our wonderful economy...
Bidenomics.
Thanks for the video everything you said i agree with for this price range. Me personally keep it simple but make sure you can see 👍
Trijicon credo 3-9x40 capped turrets, same ruggedness and quality for a street price of 600. That's a scope that meets the needs for 90% of hunters at a affordable price.
You make a number of valid points. But first and foremost a scope must be a gunsight. I don't care how bright a scope is, it must offer excellent eye relief and it must always maintain zero. You can have a fantastic optical instrument but if the scope is too bulky and heavy it ruins the balance of the rifle.
So a proper hunting scope must:
1. Offer excellent eye relief
2. Always hold zero
3. Be properly balanced on the rifle
Optical quality is important but there are other aspects that are even more important.
I love 3x power for hunting out to 80y. I find im a better shot than with the extra perceived reticle movement at 4 or 5x for
Some reason
What would be the best scope for a model 70 super grade in 270 that is already heavy enough??
Curious as to your thoughts