Leupold scope question

[Jamr]

Hi All,

I am looking at buying a new leupold scope in the 4.5-14 power range. My question is how important is the side focus option? I have found a great price on a scope with the CDS and everything else but no side focus.  Thanks!

[Bean Counter]

I have a $1,000 3-15x Zeiss and couldn't tell you what side focus is to save my life 

[Jamr]

Ha Ha! Kind of my thoughts too. It's for parralex adjustment. I have never had a scope with it, so maybe that answers my question.

[X-Force]

I would stay away from parallax adjustment.

I have the VX3 4.5-14x40 cds without parallax. Nice scope.

[Bob33]

Side Focus is another method of adjusting for parallax. Scopes with "adjustable objectives" accomplish the same thing via a rotating objective lens. If you need to adjust for parallax errors, a Side Focus or Adjustable Objective lens will provide the mechanism to do so. For the vast majority of big game hunting situations it is not vital as parallax errors are typically small. They can be minimized by keeping your shooting eye directly in line with the center of the scope's field of view.

[buckfvr]

I have scopes with side focus and find it necessary for achieving optimum clarity.  Everyones eyes are different, and you may find no advantage in having it til you need it.  Age seems to change the features one seeks in a scope....not everyone but some, like me.

[2labs]

I have scopes with side focus and find it necessary for achieving optimum clarity.  Everyones eyes are different, and you may find no advantage in having it til you need it.  Age seems to change the features one seeks in a scope....not everyone but some, like me.

  I have two scopes with side focus! And really like them!

[Jamr]

Thanks for all the quick responses. New scope has been ordered 

[BULLBLASTER]

I have the vx3 CDs 4.5-14 non adjustable parallax scope on my 243. I dont think it is real useable past 500 ish yards. You can really see the parallax at that range. Love the scope tho. 

[Bean Counter]

Side Focus is another method of adjusting for parallax.

Oh, ok. I think it has that    I just close my eyes and slam the trigger! 

[JDHasty]

Hi All,

I am looking at buying a new leupold scope in the 4.5-14 power range. My question is how important is the side focus option? I have found a great price on a scope with the CDS and everything else but no side focus.  Thanks!

If you can put up with having to reach all the way forward to the objective to adj the parallax it isn't a big deal.  I have both the side focus and objective focus scopes and while the side focus is nice it isn't a deal breaker if it doesn't have it.   

[WoodlandShooter]

Paralax is needed!! if you have it, learn to use it.


that's all I will say about it.

[JDHasty]

Another thing to keep in mind is to use a FAT Wrench, or other torque driver of an inch lb torque wrench every time when tightening rings on Side Adjust Parallax scopes.  If you over tighten it even a bit the front ring can cause the tube to rub on the parallax mechanism and it can and will cause it to malfunction.