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I am interested in the Leupold VX2 1-4x20mm and VX3I 1.5-5x20mm scopes.
Mainly from the weight side of things they are pretty light 8.1 and 9.3 ounces respectively.
One thing I have found interesting is if you check weights the Leupolds compared to similar scopes appear to be pretty much the lightest.
Has anyone who uses them provide comment on what they are like to use for instance on the change of light or in dark bush.
And in general.
Looking at maybe putting one on a .222.
I've got the VX3i on my Forbes. I did the same toss up between the same two scopes. I went with the 3 as no one regrets buying better.
I haven't used it in the bush yet, as I've only had it 2 weeks.
My only gripe with Leupolds lower models (1/2/3) is the variable eye relief.
I would have loved the VX6 1-6 but it's a bit out of my price range ATM.
I have the 1-4x20 on a Marlin carbine in .357 magnum and like it very much. As you say, short & light and for me a lot better than open sights.
Not bad in the dim bush but a 20mm objective can only gather so much light.
Tend to leave it set on 3x but wind it down to 2x if right on top of something in heavy scrub and 4x for that longer shot. 100 yds is a long shot with .357:)
Usually use a Mini 14 .223 in the scrub and it wears a Leupold Vari-XII 2-7x33 which is perfect for all-round work and can be mounted low on most rifles.
I think the 2-7x is more versatile with better field of view and a bit brighter while still being pretty compact.
Who has these scopes in stock so you can have a look at them and compare them.
Guncity advertise them but don't have them in ChCh, Hunting and Fishing stores in Otaki and Taupo don't either.
Talk to Reloaders, they usually have a reasonable stock of Leupolds.
Have used both, and both are excellent scopes. I am a fan of lower powered scopes, and have shot to 600 easily with a 3x. The reality is that most people dont use a scope on 1x, usually 1.5x as it makes it easier to differentiate between actual and what you are seeing through the scope. I presently have a 1.5-20 on a 7-08 and I dont think you will be dissappointed if you buy one. They are light, compact, excellent glass and at 3x with a 20mm exit pupil you get as much light as the human eye can use.
I run a 1-4 Patrol Firedot on my AR7.62x39 and on a Marlin Camp 9. The illuminated dot works a treat in the tight stuff and when light is low.
I have a VX-6 1-6x24 German No.4 CDS for sale if any one is keen... Ex condition...
Just started using a Bushnell 1.75-4 and really enjoying it so far. Makes a difference to the 6.5-20 on the long range rig
I have used a 1.5-5x20 Vari-X 3 continuously on the bush rifle for 25 years. 1.5x is great for quick target acquisition. Longer range, out at say 300m, is hampered somewhat in my view by the course reticle option, so I would advise choosing the standard reticle if buying new, as I don't feel this will compromise deep bush visibility at the other end. The depth that the objective lens is recessed keeps it protected from damage like no other, and to some extent water too when in use (depending on how the rifle is carried), and it achieves this without any apparent tunneling. In fact the scope often gives the appearance of being almost a "suspended lens" with barely any visible dark surround to the image. As there is no enlarged objective OD - 25mm the whole way - the front mount can clamp the scope right at the front protecting the objective lens housing/front rim. The scope dimensions will likely allow for this positioning on most rifles while still providing good eye relief. When mounted back like this there is no gap at the front between the scope and the barrel to hang up on vegetation. This, in combination with the weight and lack of bulk, make it a truly 5-star product. Leupold replaced the innards in mine recently with the VX3i-style dual-spring erector retainers free of charge.
If you decide to go with this model please PM me. I'll buy another and we could maybe get the price down with a quantity purchase?
The old Leupold 1.5-5 I had was good. The VX3 1.5-5 I have now is much better. If you want a lightweight hunting scope in that magnification range, you would have to go German or Austrian to beat it.
I've got a vx3 1.5-5 that I'm thinking of selling.. Hasn't had a heap of use...pm if you interested...