Leupold VX3 3.5-10x40 vs. Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44

[toddtms]

So I am new to hunting and I am looking for a decent scope to mount on a Tikka T3 Lite Stainless in 308.  I will be doing mainly deer and potentially some elk in WA.  I anticipate most shots to be 300 yards or less.  I have looked at both scopes side by side in the store and it is tough to decide between the two.  Price is not a big enough factor to sway me either way.  I know scopes can turn into a Ford vs. Chevy type argument, but those of you that have been around for a while and have experience with these scopes please give me your opinions.

Thanks in advance   

[Bmcox86]

I have the viper and really like it. I have two vortex scopes and a pair of binos and am extremely pleased with the performance. Vortex and elknut(sponser here and vortex dealer) went well out of their way to get me my last scope when I needed it and it was on back order.

[jrebel]

Own both...except my Leupold is a 4.5-14x50.  I like both...but if I were to choose I would take the Leupold 10 out to 10 times.   

[EyeTooth]

Hi toddtms,
I only have experience with the Leupold VX3 3.5-10x40 with the duplex reticle, but do have plenty of it. I've bought 5 of these exact scopes for myself, family and friends in the last 25 years and they're all still doing great! We've hunted hard and taken many animals with them with no failures. Of course they haven't always been as expensive as they are now, but to me, they are worth every penny!  They are amazing! I prefer the one piece base with dovetail rings. Solid and tough.
I bought a used one one time and sent it along with an older 2-7 power Leupold scope and a pair of Leupold binoculars that I broke an objective lens on to Leupold in Oregon for repair and they made all of them like new again and had them back to me very quickly, no charge! I'm not sure what their repair policy is now. It might be worth a call to them to see.
Good luck with your choice.

[huntandjeep]

I have a  Viper hslr in 4×16×50 ordered through Elknut here on the site. Its a great scope and they have an awesome warranty. My only experience with Leupold was with a VX2 and it was alright. You can't really go wrong either scope .

[couesbitten]

While I think that you really can't lose with either scope and both have great warranties, I'd go Leupold  for no other reason than the fact that it's made in the USA.

[Bofire]

  The USA Leupold, even better, is it is Tigard, Oregon, close. Go find a used leupold, send it to them they will rebuild it or replace it free, if needed. I have a bunch of 3.5X 10X40 VX and Vari X 3's.
Carl

[toddtms]

BOFIRE.  You by chance aren't selling any of those 3.5-10x40 VX3's are ya?  I like your idea, but I have not seen any used ones recently.

Thanks

[Bofire]

  I have an extra but am saving it, I want another coyote gun. I have 223,22-250 and 243, but my 223 is an AR and I want a bolt gun for "just cause" I want it.
Carl
I will keep my eye open for you tho!!

[Elknut1]

Better check out the Leupold site to be straight on where many of their Optics are made! You will find many are made in China these days not the USA. Thing is the prices are hard to be beat overseas so many companies are doing what they have to so they can compete in the optics market!

  ElkNut1

[toddtms]

In regards to the VIPER HS, what do you guys think.  2.5-10x 44 or the 4-16x4? 

Also what is the largest difference between the VX-2 and VX-3?  I know its the quality of glass and the ability to draw in light in low light conditions, but is it very obvious to the average person?

Also any other suggestions in this quality/price point?

Thanks 

[MarkyMark]

LEUPOLD for the win!

[beaslayer6]

I own both scopes. you wont good wrong with either.. but I would buy the vortex a little clearer and bright I the prevailing light.. 

[Mauser]

Here is the difference as I see it. I once purchased a used somewhat beat up Leupold scope. I called Leupold about getting it repaired. When I asked if they would repair it under warranty  since I had purchased it used and abused the guy said, " we made didn't we?" They stand behind their products like few others. My scope was returned post paid in about 10 days looking and working like new. Their customer service is second to none. There was even a hand written note with it that basically said " I hope this didn't mess up your hunting."

[Alan K]

If you ever plan to reach out there, you'll want the larger power range.  I started out a Leupold guy, but gave Vortex a shot since I wanted a higher power scope without giving up the short range zoom.  I can't say anything bad about Leupold's quality and customer service, it's fantastic, but at the same time it's no better than Vortex's.

[elkslayer069]

Vortex own two of them the HS that is lol