Leupold vx2 vs Vx3i?

[JeffRaines]

So I'm looking for a scope for a new rifle in 257 weatherby. I have a vortex and some nikons in my safe currently but want something simpler, and for lack of a better word different. I was looking at the Leupold vx2 4-12x40 and Vx3i 4.5-14x40. The concern I have is low light performance - is the Vx3i really that much better? Or will I be fine going with the vx2? Shots will be within 500 yards and 500 is pushing it. That's more like a once in a blue moon field shot and maybe steel/paper only.

[Bill W]

I've used a VX-2 since 1967 and never felt I had a low light viewing condition.   Have never compared it to the other scope you are considering.

[Mark251]

I have several of both and for the money, you just can't beat the VX-2.  I think you would be happy with the VX-2 for the application you are describing.

[danderson]

Go with the VX-2, the extra money spent on a VX-3 just allows shooting before and after legal shooting times, not what most hunters would use.

[baker5150]

I have a VX2 4-12x50 and have zero complaints.  Very good in low light conditions.

[Skillet]

I've had an old M8, FX-II, VX III, and VX-3i.

The light gathering and clarity upgrade between the  VX2 and VX3i are worth the extra money to me. It has nothing to do with allowing you to shoot before or after legal hours - a better scope does not make anybody a poacher.
Much more to do with sharpness of picture at higher magnification in lower light conditions, making it easier to pick out the details when you're trying to find that tiny shooting lane through the brush.  But if VX2 fits the budget better, by all means go for it since they are great fit the price.  I believe the current line of VX2 scopes are every bit as good as the older VX-III scope I have, if not better.

[JeffRaines]

Thanks for the input guys, looks like I'm gonna go with the vx2. Can't wait!

edit: wanted to add that I found the eyebox on the vx3i to be... weird, to say the least. The vx2 was comfortable and what I expected.

[Killmore]

I have both, The 3s are better. Are they worth the additional money?

[Duckslayer89]

So I'm looking for a scope for a new rifle in 257 weatherby. I have a vortex and some nikons in my safe currently but want something simpler, and for lack of a better word different. I was looking at the Leupold vx2 4-12x40 and Vx3i 4.5-14x40. The concern I have is low light performance - is the Vx3i really that much better? Or will I be fine going with the vx2? Shots will be within 500 yards and 500 is pushing it. That's more like a once in a blue moon field shot and maybe steel/paper only.

Vx6 on sale right now at cabelas 2-12 with CDS-ZL