Advances in the last decade and more particularly the last few years have given us good product choices, and it is fair to say that we have never had it so good. I still remember the scopes that we had in the 70's. So on reflection it is perhaps appropriate to look back and take stock of where we stand now. Every year scope companies bring new innovations and/or product changes to the Big Shot Show.

We often hear that Leupold is providing the best balance of all scopes, but they have steadily increased their prices year on year and has now become expensive, whilst they have been playing catch up to the opposition. They offer different quality scopes at different price points, but made sure that their warranty and after sales service remained the best - this seems to be their business model. Lately they have taken on Redfield as a low level brand at an even lower price point. Leupold lags mostly in their glass, even against some Asian made scopes (Nikon, Bushnell, Vortex, Sightron, etc.) and that is really where most feel they should improve. What is difficult to understand is that there is no reason for that being so from our perspective, but from a profit motive point of view they are riding that wave happily.

Leupold's tactical scopes were at one time a leading brand, but they have fallen behind badly and have given way to other scopes that won the military and police tenders. The same is happening with benchrest shooters, as they seem to prefer various other scopes over Leupold. Leupold have also been very slow in their product upgrading for a long time. What most hunters like about Leupolds is that they are slim and lightweight and they are still cheaper than the Euro scopes and so they will capture a bigger market share and rake in the cash. I believe the VX-7 is on its way out and will be replaced or shall I rather say speculation has it that it is not selling well, and they have to dress it in different clothing. The VX-2 3-9x40 mm still seem to be the hottest seller in the range, as it can do most things hunters require without paying an arm and a leg. The VX-3 has been improved substantially, and it is a great choice for most Americans. Here in SA it is a bit pricey against cheaper rival products, such as Nikon and Lynx, with Lynx dominating the market.

European scope companies run a different business model in that they are trying to offer only the best quality but at top prices. Lately we have seen some exciting new products that they have launched, however most all European scopes have shorter eye relief than Leupolds, but we have seen it go from 80 mm to 90 mm of eye relief in some scopes, and they largely stick to 30 mm tubes and reticle in the first focal plane (FFP), whereas we in SA and the USA prefer reticles in the second focal plane (SFP). Their are a few exceptions though as of late, save for Swarovski that recognized this a long time ago for foreign buyers.

Zeiss came out with their Victory range and it is a very popular range for hunters - the Zeiss Victory Diavari T* VM/V 2.5-10x42 mm; with #4 reticle. Zeiss cling to the 30 mm tubes except for their fixed 6x scope being the Diatal 6x42 T; with #4 reticle. I like the 6x scope for its clarity and slimness, but the eye relief is only 80 mm being the same as Swarovski's PF 6x 42 mm scope, limiting their use on hard kickers. The Conquest is a budget scope for Zeiss and has done very well at its price point and robbed a lot of customers away from Leupold in the USA. The Conquest was specifically designed to compete in the US market. The Conquest 3-9x40 mm has 4" of eye relief. So far I am pretty happy with my Conquest 3-9x40 mm scope.

Schmidt & Bender launched their new Summit scope and it received rave reviews - It's S&B's first 1" scope and the 2.5-10x only weighs 16-some ounces. S&B scopes are mostly bulky and heavy and they get criticized for it. I just had a session on the range with a S&B 3-12x50 mm Zenith's for the first time in my life, and all I can say its clarity is awesome and I have fallen in love with this scope - it weights 22 oz and all of a sudden it did not bother me anymore, strange? S&B designed the Zenith model with a mounting space of 5.6" as compared to the 5.0" on the Classic 3-12x50 mm. A wise decision as the scope can be mounted on longer actions. The Flash Dot is a phenomenal reticle; it is extremely fast to acquire and a great aid in low light as well as broad daylight.

Swarovski is continually pushing the envelope and seems to lead the pack. They have just launched their Z5 and Z6 ranges recently which appears to be a major upgrade, but not the Z3, as it is essentially the same as the old AV range. The Z5 and Z6 use 4 point coil springs. The Z3 series retains the traditional leaf spring system that allows the Z3’s to have a slightly lower price. The coil springs are a significant improvement in design over a single leaf spring. Most major rifle scope manufacturers today are still using the standard single leaf spring system. SWAROVSKI OPTIK designed a better method of holding the erector tube in position via the patented 4-point coil spring system. 4 Coil springs are now doing the job of what 1 leaf spring did before. The springs help absorb recoil forces to the rifle scope. This lowers shock to the scope’s internal working mechanism. The reduction of recoil stress adds to the overall strength and longevity of the scope.

Here is an interesting commentary on the coil spring technology now used by Swarovski making it more robust on hard kickers, and are currently state of the art in scope design.

http://www.opticstalk.com/foru...rovski-better#240992

I compared the old Swarovski 3-9x36 mm AV scope against the Kahles CT 3-9x42 mm scope, and I much preferred the Kahles - both are 1-inch scopes. So I bought the Kahles which I regard as a top scope for substantially less money than the Swarovski and S&B. The Kahles scope has a 90 mm eye relief or 3.54" and weights 14.1 oz., which is adequate up to 375 H&H level in my opinion. John Barnsnes tested the Swarovski Z3 3x9 and proclaimed it the best lightweight 3x9 scope (12 oz) that he has ever tested. I am not sure if John tested the Kahles, but to me the Kahles was the clear winner against the AV version. Obviously the AV scope is older technology. I do not believe the Z3 is an upgrade on the AV. The reason why I doubt it is because I know an AV has failed on a big-bore rifle and the Z3 has the same traditional leaf spring.. The AV's have good glass though, it's small and slim, lightweight and capable of very low-mounting with a 36 mm objective.

The Kahles Helia CT scopes are very clear & bright, compact in size and reliable. With their 42 mm objectives they too can be mounted low enough for a proper cheek weld on the stock. The new Kahles CSX 1.1-4x24, 30 mm IR Riflescope is a class act . Kahles have withdrawn from the 1-inch tube market and will rather focus on the European market, which is rather sad as we South Africans generally still prefer 1-inch tube scopes.

Back to Leuplod scopes - this is what they say on their website about the spring systems that they use:

In the VX-7 range

"Dual Spring, 4x erector system is designed to withstand the most devastating recoil. It virtually eliminates erector system backlash and stress on the internal workings of the system, for longer life."

In the VX-3 range

"The twin bias spring exerts up to 30 percent more holding force on the erector, virtually eliminating erector system backlash and stress on the vital internal workings of the scope, for longer life."

In the VX-2 range

They are silent on what they are using - therefore most probably a single leaf spring.

Could the opposition come up with technology to leap-frog Swarovski on this aspect of stability and robustness?

Warrior

One of the most talked about optics topics as of late has been the USMC's move to adopt the Schmidt and Bender PM LP/2 3-12x50 mm scope on all of their M40A3 and M82 sniper rifles. This was quite the surprise as there were scopes provided by 25 companies and the S&B supposedly is the only scope that passed all the tests.

No matter what controversies may arise from the testing and the adoption, the fact remains that the S&B is now the USMC's official sniping scope.

For an evaluation, go here:

http://www.snipercentral.com/sbp2.htm

Warrior

It would be better if someone in the US could give us a decent SIDEMOUNT again instead of all these variations and copies of what is rubbish Redfield "Turn In" clone system!

Something like g & H and Pachmayr used to offer once upon a time. Or Prechtl in Germany.

Here is the scale that SWFA put together - 0 is the worst and a 10 is the best.

2008 Riflescope Rating Scale:

10- Swarovski Z6, Zeiss Victory, Leica
9 - Kahles C - CL & CSX, Schmidt & Bender
8 - Kahles KX, U.S. Optics, Swarovski PH & American, X.O.T.I.C., Zeiss Classic
7 - Bushnell Elite 6500, Leupold VX-7, Nightforce, IOR Valdada
6 - Bushnell Elite 4200, Nikon Monarch & Monarch X, Zeiss Conquest
5 - Leupold Mark 4 VX III & VX-L, Nikon Monarch Gold & Titanium, Sightron SIII
4 - Burris Black Diamond Signature Select XTR & Euro Diamond, Meopta, Pentax Lightseeker, Super Sniper, Trijicon Accupoint, Weaver Grand Slam
3 - Bushnell Elite 3200, Leatherwood, Leupold VX-II, Millet, Nikon Buckmaster, Sightron SI & SII, Vortex
2 - Burris Fullfield II & Timberline, Leupold Rifleman & VX-I, Mueller, Nikon ProStaff, Simmons, Swift
1 - Barska, BSA, Tasco
0 - ATN, Leapers, NcStar

This is how SWFA formed the list. The scale below was formed by SWFA sales staff, customer service, pro-staff and owners using personal experience, customer input and facts supplied by the manufacturers. The ranking system is based on the following criteria in order of importance and weight it carries.

1. Optical Quality - How bright and clear the scope is.
2. Specifications - Field of view, eye relief, weight, adjustment travel, etc.
3. Durability - How do they with stand the test of time.
4. Special Features & Options - Proprietary items (reticles, design, turrets), Zoom ratio.
5. Warranty & Customer Service - How good are they.
6. Value - Bang for your buck.

Warrior

Most top quality scopes fare so well in daylight that sometimes one can hardly tell the differnce, unless mid- and bottom end scopes are thrown in. Thisi is where surface coatings play a distinguishing role and it happens to be one of the most expensive components of cost. This must be the reason why companies such as Leupold take a middle of the road option to keep costs at bay.

I came across another piece of interesting information, being a low light test done. In Metsästys & Kalastus (March 2009) there was another low light scope test.

"This time the test consisted of thirteen 2.5-10x50 mm scopes.

Top performers:

Zeiss Diavari
Zeiss Varipoint
Docter Unipoint

Middle class performers (low light performance is sufficient/ok with reservations):

Kahles Helia CBX
Swarovski Z6i
Nikon Monarch E (not sure if this model is available in U.S.)
Centaur (former MicroDot)

Low performers (poor low light performance):

Burris Euro Diamond
Bushnell Elite 4200
Weaver Extreme
Hakko Majesty
Milicom S
JahtiJakt Premium (generic chinese made scope)

The test also had Meopta Meostar R1 3-12x56 from the previous test as a benchmark. This scope performed better in low light situations than any other scope in the 50mm test.

Also 2.5-10x56 Trijicon Accupoint was reviewed separately. It was considered to be at least equal to the top Japanese made 56mm scopes in the previous 2008 test. Also Trijicon performed better in low light situations than any other scope in the 50mm test. Looks like the extra 6mm in objective size makes the difference."

Some observations:

1) The standards must have been very high to rank a Burris Euro Diamond and a Bushnell Elite 4200 as "Poor"!

2) The 2.5-10x50mm S&B Zenith was unfortunately not included.

3) Also, no Nightforce, Leupold or Sightron scope was included.

4) Since the Bushnell Elite 4200 is ranked as clearer than the Leupold VX3 by many posters on various forums, it is fair to assume that the Leupold would have also fallen in the same "poor" category.

5) It is rather surprising to see that the Meopta Meostar did so well, but in all fairness it had a 56 mm objective, but it says something about the suberb coatings Meopta is using, at a much lower price point.

6) Zeiss still seems to come out tops, just a pity the S&B Zenith was not included.

7) The Zeiss Diavari Victory (3-12x) also came out tops in a Swedish test (Vapentidningen no 6/2004), which can be seen at this site/forum: http://forums.basspro.com/cgi-...15;t=001482;go=newer

8) The sightron is an up and coming brand and its Big Sky and Siii version is considered to be one of the very best Japanese made scopes.

Warrior

Scope manufacturers have been improving their products, which includes adding more reticle options (Trijicon could improve their eye relief). I look for those things in a scope. The other is repeatability. I don't care how good the glass is, if the scope can't hold POA or is not repeatable, it is not one I would consider. Would any one? I don't see that criteria in the tests above.

Also it is interesting to me that the person evaluating the S&B scope at Sniper Central did not know the elevation range of the scope. They should have put a little more effort into it.

S&B usually rates high on most tests, but a real test to me would be to put it on a rifle and take it to the range. Every one knows they have good glass, but is worth the extra money for most people?

I have not touched on some Asian made scopes of note that is competing with Leupolds here in South Africa, such as the Lynx that has been around for a long period of time and dominating the market for hunting scopes, Nikon that has been here for a few years, and more recently (18 months or so) the Sightron and Vortex scopes. The Lynx importer in SA also imports the more expensive Nightforce range. Bushnell has recently been reintroduced in SA, after a bad spell of customer service, and is doing much better with its Elite range being essentially a Bausch and Lomb scope of a higher quality and known for its superior images as opposed to the cheaper Bushnell range.

Outsourcing has become a common practice now, especially for companies that are just branding a scope and not actually making it themselves. Here is a brief list of them: BSA, Bushnell, Mueller, Millet, Nikon, Simmons, Shepherd, Tasco and Weaver. Japanese made scopes almost always rank as higher quality made scopes than Chinese scopes, but lately the Japanese is also subcontracting some work to the Phillipine factories. Nikon in Japan gets its scopes made entirely by the factory Kenko in the Philippines. Tasco and BSA scopes are made in China. Some components, such as erector tubes, are being supplied from Taiwan at low cost for scope companies.

Glass and components

Glass comes from various places. Schott North America indicates on their site that their glass comes from Schott JENA GLAS GmbH, which is the home site of Schott in Germany - they are the world leaders. Schott belongs to the same parent company as Zeiss. It is fair to assume due to close proximity and the high quality of glass they produce that the top German and Austrian scope manufacturers will all source there glass there. However, Leica uses glass from a supplier in NY, called Corning Glass Works an equally leading supplier. Leupold glass comes from one of three locations,a plant in Singapore,a plant in Japan,and a plant in Germany. They get glass in different grades from all three. Most optical coatings are applied by the glass makers to Leupold specs. However, they do some of their own coatings, such as their "Diamond Coat Coatings". It is interesting to know that Zeiss' coatings are 12 times harder than Leupold's diamond dust coating. In the end, it doesn't really matter where any of them get the raw glass from or even finished lenses, so long as the company meets the specification of the buyer. The quality of optical glass that is used will make a difference in how bright, sharp, and colorful the view will be. Lead-free glass provides for excellent optical clarity, and is being used in more expensive scopes, however, it is being used in Zeiss' cheaper Conquest range - little wonder that it is clearer than the Leupold VX-3 scope. Leupold opted for lead-free glass in their more expensive VX-7 scopes. The Minox riflescope also uses Schott glass.

Assembly takes place many a time at a different location or country. Factories the Philippines that make and assemble scopes for it's foreign clients are owned by Japanese foreign investors. Scopes made and assembled here are marked "made in the Philippines" either by sticker or more commonly etching somewhere on the scope. These companies too are specially strict when it comes to quality control. The labour in the Philippines doesn't come cheap if you are a foreign owned company like for example Philippine Kenko plant, which explains why most Philippine made scopes are mid-priced and not as cheap, and the quality is arguably as good as Japanese made scopes as they have to work to Japanese standards. It is also true that all Japanese made scopes differ in specs and type of components, which naturally determines the price. Many of the internal components and the glass for Leupolds come from Asia, but Leupold will not disclose from where. In contrast German and Austrian companies try to do as much if not all in their own factories, save for buying the raw glass. There are some exceptions though, for example the Zeiss Conquest scope is assembled in the USA with components from Germany, which in turn get the lenses from Meopta to bring costs down in order to compete in the price sensitive American market.

Light Optical Works of Japan (L.O.W.) is a well respected company and probably the top Japanese scope company that is run by a small team of specialists with high quality standards. They are an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and offer their optical products for scopes to various wholesalers and retailers, but not directly to the public. They also manufacture binoculars for Cabela's and Leupold as you mentioned. The models are Alaskan guide for Cabelas and Pinnacles and Katmai for Leupold. Most scope companies keep it is a secret and do not want to divulge which company they are using to either supply them with components or making the whole scope for them. But over time it does leak out in conversations with salesmen.

Nightforce

We know for example that the optics in NF scopes are being supplied by L.O.W. Nightforce makes a top quality scopes and are renowned for being mechanically sound, as proven in extreme military conditions as a sniper scope. Optically they are good, but not in the class of the S&B in low light conditions. Mechanically their internals are among the most durable and precise of any optic on the market. For example the thickness of the tube body of Nightforce scopes is two to three times thicker than most any other riflescope; this adds to the thermal stability which aids in maintaining a consistent zero and reduces deformation of internal components, thus improving tracking and repeatability. Nightforce NXS riflescopes are tested to three atmospheres or 66 feet of water. Thermal stability is tested by freezing the scopes in a nitrogen atmosphere to -80º F and then heated to 250º F in a one-hour period. Function is checked at both temperature extremes. Recoil and impact is tested at 1,200 Gs for both positive and negative forces.

NF scopes compete with the Valdada IOR scopes that uses Schott glass, but the IOR scopes that are made in Romania, have better glass all the way around, it's brighter, clearer and more crisp at a lower price point. Unfortunately Nightforce does not offer many reticle options for the hunter.

Light Optical Works is a prime & leading Japanese manufacturer of scopes

L.O.W. also manufactures many different good brand-name scopes, notably the Bushnell Elite and the Lynx scopes. Weaver has a contract with Light Optical Works of Japan, and it is rumored that they make all their scopes of which the Grand Slams and the Super Slams are the top ones. It is also believed that they grind most or all of the lenses for Leupold.

Bushnell

Bushnell outsourced their production to various companies in several countries and their premium products to Japan. They just provide designs, optical specifications for the glass, and the proprietary coatings that makes for the differences in the products. Bushnell, to their credit, developed the Rainguard coatings themselves. Light Optical Works make the entire lense in-house on all Elite scopes. The Bushnell Elite 4200 is a very tough scope and is tested to the tune of 10,000 rounds of a 375 H&H. I suspect it is better than most of what it rivals can claim. It would be nice if all companies can actually publish this statistic. The 3200/4200 Elite series offer longer tubes for easy mounting and have a transferable lifetime warranty for any product defects. Bushnell launched their 6500 range, featuring a 6.5x erector ratio rather than more common 3x and 4x erectors. The 6500 Elite is a very flexible scope and even improves on the Elite 4200 and features and is currently Bushnell's premier product:-

- it has a greater internal adjustment range (80 MOA) than the 3200/4200 range
- the 2.5-16x42 mm scope is about the same size as a typical 2.5-10x42 mm scope, but with a 30 mm tube.
- a longer eye relief (4 inches) than the 3200/4200 range
- greater magnification for varminters.
- there is no trace of tunnel vision in any way
- optically the image quality is similar to that of Elite 4200
- finger resettable pop-up knobs

Lynx

The people at Lynx SA have a fantastic track record, a local service after sales workshop, and backing a good product. It is also made by L.O.W. of Japan and with good reason. Lynx scopes are designed and engineered to meet our local standards as being specified by the SA agent (Thom Rogers and his son Michael Rogers). Tough enough for most conditions as proven over more than 20 years. For the shooter who wants the best, LX II models have been manufactured to even tighter tolerance specifications with respect to lens and mechanical component, producing brighter, sharper and higher contrast images than LX and P models. The have excellent glass that can compete anyday with Leupold, but at a far beter price point, but not as attractive to me as the Leupold. In fact, in a comparative test that Koos Barnard of Man Magnum did, he found that the clarity and definition of the Lynx 4.5-14x scope was slightly superior to the Leupold’s. The LX II scopes feature finger adjustable turrets for easy operation. Lynx scopes have a lifetime warranty which is limited to the original purchaser

Vortex

Vortex is a US company based in Middleton, Wisconsin and has been around about 20 years. Their Viper line is being produced in Japan, but they too are keeping the supplier a secret, but it's rumored to be LOW as well. The Viper offers good glass and features and is well made, its dials and magnification functions smoothly, and it comes at a very attractive price point with an unconditional lifetime warranty. Their Diamondback scopes are said to come from a Philippine company, probably the same one used by Nikon and Burris. Here is their website:

http://www.vortexoptics.com/pr...scope-v-plex-reticle

Sightron

It is a well respected brand made by Asia Optical in Japan, but it was just recently introduced to SA. The first and most popular offering that came in was the Sightron SII Big Sky 3.5-10X42 mm scope. Should you wish to check its specs, go here:

http://www.sightron.com/index....6362&cat_id=15&id=14

Sightron seems to have the right formulae for success - building quality products, price them competitively and guarantee them for life. Do here for more information www.sightron.com.

The Sightron will become a very serious contender for the Lynx scope over time. They claim that it "produces some of the best scopes with the highest contrast and resolution on the market today. Tougher In the field and more accurate than ever before. Great scopes with a host of standard features such as our unique ExacTrack™ windage and elevation system, the ZACT-7™ Revcoat 7 Layer Broadband lens coating process on all Big Sky Models, one-piece main tubes and our Lifetime Warranty."

Just as a closing thought on why I still prefer 1-inch tube scopes with no more than 42 mm objectives:

A bright image will always capture our imagination, as the quality of internal components cannot be seen by us. Build quality and reliability should actually be of prime importance, and then the glass clarity. More light transmission and a slightly brighter picture & greater resolution, all at the expense of some greater weight and bulk, mounted higher above the bore, for a weaker cheek weld is not ideal in my opinion. To me a slim scope, offering simplicity and reliability are qualities that outweigh any incremental optical advantages of a larger scope in a hunting scenario at practical ranges.

Warrior

No March scopes in SA yet?
Butch

Butch,

Yes, they came in about a year ago. Destined for target shooters in the main, and very pricey I must add. Hunters won't by them. I test drived one and it has a very critcal eye-box and thus they are slow in target acquisition. Must say the glass is supurb !!! I see they have become very popular with overseas target shooters - not here as yet.

Warrior

You need to test drive the 1x-10x or the 5x-25x hunting models.
Butch

Butch,

I used the March 2.5-25x42 mm Duplex model.

As with all high power March scopes, the 2.5-25x42 Hunting Scope incorporates high quality ED lenses to provide superior image resolution.

Magnification 2.5x 25x
Effective Lens Diameter 42mm
Body Tube Diameter 30mm
Exit Pupil - 1.68mm
Field of View, real 8.0° 0.8°
Eye Relief 85-100mm 89-96mm
1 Click Adjustment 1/4MOA
Elevation Travel 100MOA
Windage Travel 100MOA
Focus Side Focus / Parallax
Distance 10YD-infinity
Finish Matte Black
Reticle CH , 1/4dot , DE-Plex
MTR-1 (M-Model)
Total Length (-1D) 312mm
Weight 610g (21.5oz) D25V42 model

I tested various scopes at 6x magnification. The scope that beat them all was the Zeiss Diatal 6x fixed - best eyebox of the lot, then the Swarovski 3-9x36 mm scope. This made me think. I called the shop owner over and asked him to check me out - his finding was the same.

Warrior

IMPACT TESTING

I had a comparative durability test that was done by some one, but cannot find it for the moment. Durability comprises not only of the scope's ability to withstand impacts, but also being fog proof and water proof. Most scope companies have impact machines that are used to measure and duplicate the recoil pulse acceleration and duration. These machines are calibrated to replicate the wave frequencies and shock impulses that a scope is subjected to. The Bushnell Elite scopes for example are tested to pass:

1,000 rounds with the equivalent impact of a 375 H&H for the Elite 3200 model, and

10,000 rounds with the equivalent impact of a 375 H&H for the Elite 4200 model

ERECTOR TUBE

The interior lens assembly that is actually moved when adjusting the windage and elevation is held in place by springs and the strength of these springs determine how well a scope may stay in “zero.” Most scopes only have 1 leaf spring, some more expensive ones feature double leaf springs. Burris has gone to the expense on some of their scopes to incorporate a “Posi-Lock” feature that solidly locks in your adjustments with a retractable steel post. This keeps a scope from failing when subjected to heavy recoil. Swarovski has now cone to 4 coil springs. When these springs can go bad your groups will string either vertically or horizontally with no sequential pattern.


SIGHT ADJUSTMENTS

Quality scopes use steel-on-steel dial adjustments that are more positive and repeatable that clicks into place. Cheaper scopes use plastic here and with frequent use its adjustment repeatability iS compromised. Burris and Leupold VXII's (and up) use steel-on-steel, to name a few. Some cheaper scopes still use a friction non-click adjustment - Leupold’s older Vari-X II and new VXI and Rifleman line use this method and is generally fine if not used excessively.

NIGHTFORCE HAS BECOME THE INDUSTRY STANDARD IN DURABILITY

Some scopes are just better in repeatability than others. To achieve durability and accuracy in NF scopes for example, the turret adjustments are made with specially treated and hardened metals. Materials like heat-treated, high-strength steel with advanced dry film lubricants and surfaced hardened brass silicone bronze (BSB) are used to ensure long-lasting wear resistant and reliable performance. Each sleeve of the erector tube assembly consists of dissimilar metals. The outer tube is constructed of a unique bronze alloy. This provides exceptional wear resistance while ensuring repeatable accuracy in a variable power riflescope

IMPACT OF INERTIA ON SCOPE

Needless to say that the toughest scopes are fixed-power scopes - there is less that can go wrong. Light weight scopes have less recoil energy transferred to them as opposed to heavy scopes. Scopes mainly fail due to recoil forces. The scope tube, sitting in it's mounts, is jerked backward by the recoil and the scope's internals (erector and lenses) are still at rest, and trying to stay that way, but is difficult to hold up against the inertia forces of very hard kicking rifles, such as a .458 Lott, with only a single return leaf spring.

Here is another interesting tidbit on recoil impact ... http://www.opticstalk.com/foru...a-rifle-scope#184033

If someone has a similar copy of destructive tests being done on scopes, please share them with us here on AR

Warrior

A copper screw that held the erector tube of a Lynx scope was broken clean off by the recoil of a 458 Lott. The agent replaced it with a stainless steel screw and the problem has been solved ... at least so far so good.

Also, wire reticles seem more prone to breakage than etched reticles, but would like to know more about other people's experiences wider than my own circle of friends.

Anonymous said (At June 27, 2007 7:42 AM):-

"Todd, I had the identical problem with my Ziess Diavari 1.5-6x42 mounted on a Sako .375 on my April trip to Namibia! Reticule just disconnected and flopped around. It also would not maintain focus, shot to shot. Zeiss has sent me a "loaner" which seems so far to be fine, but no idea when mine will be fixed. I think it is in Germany, but their customer service folks seem to not know for sure."

Here is another report:-

"On the other hand I've had to send a Leupold VariX-II mounted on a 30-06 back to Leupold for a busted erector assembly. Going by scopes I've personally owned I'm 100% with Swarovski and something less than that with Leupold. That doesn't mean that I don't like leupolds, I've got a bunch of them, but they can break as well as any of them. Between my hunting partners and myself, we've got decades of experience with Swarovski binos and scopes. In my opinion they're as tough as any out there and tougher than most." .... Crow Hunter

Warrior

...excellent commentary on the various scope manufacturers...

...fwiw, here are some videos that should shed some light on what it takes to produce a top-of-the-class scope/lens:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...BaJ3n7u8&feature=sub

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...Zi6k&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...wDYw&feature=related

Thanks for the link.The Zeiss tour was enlightening but I have I have bookmarked the Fieldsports Brittian episodes and will enjoy a look at many of them.

Von Gruff.

Leupold Scopes failing repeatly.

"The latest 3 x 9 x 40 VX11 has now falied after about 300 rounds from a 270 Win on a Ruger #1. This is not a lightweight combo and this scope shouldn't break. Now it will not either hold parallex or POA. Adjustments are inconsistent and not reliable." .... SteveB

http://www.24hourcampfire.com/..._repeatl#Post2528606

http://www.24hourcampfire.com/...ing_repe#Post2528781

"Leupold failures? So common it is no secret at all. Most people that actually shoot rifles a lot as in benchrest will not be quiet on this subject of Leupold failures. It always comes down to the same old thing that Leupold refuses to address. Spring failure on the erector tube. That's why Cecil Tucker has been doing a spring up grade for years. I'm sure for anyone that has ever seen a Nightforce scope and wondered what that spring housing on the scope was for, now has and answer." .... 3sixbits

http://www.24hourcampfire.com/...ing_repe#Post2529972

"One of the problems with the Leupold is the flat springs that puts tension against the erector tube. These flat springs lose tension and the erector tube drifts.

On a previous post I posted a link to the Sightron explanation page. What Sightron did was to capture the erector tube with a loop in elevation/depression and azimuth. There is a drawing on the link page and shows the difference.

Of the dozens of Leupold scopes I have returned to he factory, this has been the number one complant, failure to maintain zero.

No spring is needed for a Sightron as is done for the Leupold as Cecil Tucker does for Leupold. This is a vary old problem with Leupold that they refuse to address." ... 3sixbits
.

http://www.24hourcampfire.com/...ing_repe#Post2531830

"Most recent purchase was a new Vari-X III 2x8 that my son bought. Couldn't get it zeroed, so sent it back. They replaced all the adjustments, and then it worked fine." ... Paul39

http://www.24hourcampfire.com/...ing_repe#Post2544113

There is more on this site that I quoted, all together 30 pages of commnets, but it tells the story and what the main problem seems to be ..... single leaf springs that are not adequate !!!

Warrior

Now someone might just ask as to why cheap scopes actually last so long then? We know that manufacturers skimp on a lot of things when they make these cheap scopes at a certain price point to be as competitive as possible. For me it remains negative logic, but these scopes are selling and the manufacturers must be making money as the are not going under, and if they do, they are revived or taken over .... think WEAVER and TASCO, etc,

Here are some clues:

I can help but to think that these manufacturers set a MTBF (mean time before failure) target that must be achieved at least.
These scopes are generally mounted mainly on low recoil rifles - 30-06 Spr level and lower and so they last longer.
Scopes mounted on more powerful magnums such as the .300 Win Mag start malfunctioning more regularly.
The average hunter shoot less than 20 rounds per year - say 10 at the range before the season, and then another 10 in the field.
Most hunts are over within 3 shots, till next time.
This way, with low frequency shooting, the scope can last a reasonable time on a low kicking rifle.
With more regular use surely its cheap construction will manifest itself.
Defects start to show up initially as losing point of impact, erratic adjustments, a broken reticle or spring.

Variables have more moving parts, and so they are more likely to malfunction and/or leak. Typically, inexpensive variable scopes shift point of impact as the magnification dial is turned. If you’re sighted dead-on at 9x, you could be 2 or 4 inches off at 6x or 3x. If you have a cheap scope check for this. If you do insist on putting a cheap scope on a reasonable hard-kicker, make it a fixed power scope with a small objective lens, as less weight means less inertia stress, and there are also fewer parts that can snap loose or break. All cheap scopes employ a single leaf spring that is not adequate to last with high recoil. With better technology though, cheap scope should have improved as well, but I am not betting on it.

The quality of the turrets is a major issue if you are going to do a lot of dialling for different ranges or resetting you zero every so often for different load/bullet combinations. With cheap scopes you may just found yourself chasing a wandering point of impact around the bull ring which frustrating. In more expensive scopes you don't just pay for brighter optics with better coatings, but you also pay for repeatability and durability, as they use better materials and designs that allow the adjustments to work precisely, and stay where you put them. There a 2 mid-priced scopes that have excellent turret systems, namely Weaver's Grand Slam 3-9x40 with Weaver's precise Micro-Trac adjustment system and Sightron's Big Sky scope, which has a unique and reportedly highly reliable adjustment mechanism.

Warrior

KAHLES RIFLESCOPE LOST IN THE 1970s, WAS FOUND -
TECHNICALLY IN PERFECT CONDITION

http://www.hunting-fishing-gea...le-display/1286.html

Cranston, Rhode Island (August 24, 2004) - A professional hunter in Southern Austria inadvertently performed the longest, most realistic, environmental test on a riflescope in history. A Kahles Helia 6x42 riflescope, lost in the high mountain region of the Austrian Alps in the late 70s was recently found in technically perfect working condition.

Back in September 1977 on a Chamois stalk, a Jaegermeister (Professional Hunter) from Southern Austrian Carinthia climbed to the top of "Kometeralpe", a 2,500-meter picturesque mountain. After shooting a Chamois with his Mannlicher Luxus 6.5x57 topped with a Kahles Helia 6x42 riflescope, the PH rested his firearm against a boulder and ascended to where the game was taken. After field dressing his animal he returned to the spot where he believed he had left the rifle. Unfortunately the PH had to spend the entire afternoon searching for his gear, however it was not found. In the ensuing days and weeks, he regularly returned to the area searching for his rifle, but was unsuccessful finding it.

Weeks, months, years, and decades passed. High above the timberline, rifle and scope rested upright against the boulder � being abused by the harsh elements of nature at this high elevation. Summer heat and dust, followed by strong storms, heavy showers of ice and snow tested the durability of the scope and rifle.

Almost three decades later, Hannes, a young Jaegermeister from Obervellach, a small village in the Austrian Alps, ascended the same mountain "Kometeralpe" stalking a Chamois. After making a good shot, Hannes proceeded down the slope to the Chamois.

To his amazement, next to the Chamois, just barely visible, leaning against a gray stone boulder, was an old rifle. The rifles stock was rotten and bleached by the elements, and all of the steel parts were rusted throughout � a sad resemblance of what used to be a hunter�s pride. The firearm itself was in poor, unusable condition, however, when Hannes looked through the Kahles scope he couldn�t believe his eyes: the image quality was like that of his new modern riflescope, with the crosshair standing out crisp and clear against a sharp, brilliant and extremely bright image. The steel surfaces were rusty, yet all of the aluminum parts were unharmed. The mechanical parts, including both elevation and windage still worked perfectly and even after all those years in the most extreme of elements, the Kahles riflescope remained waterproof.

After contacting the original owner, Kahles was able to purchase this "environmentally-tested" rifle and scope. X-ray analysis showed that the rifle was still loaded and cocked but on safety. The action was locked up by corrosion and was made moveable only after burning the powder in the chamber.

This rifle and scope, a testament to the durability of KAHLES optics, will be displayed at all major trade shows. This scope still remains in its original condition after being discovered in the high mountain regions of Austria.

KAHLES, founded in 1898, is the oldest riflescope manufacturer in the world. With a reputation for high quality, durable Austrian hunting optics that is world-renowned, KAHLES today offers American consumers unprecedented value for Austrian precision and performance. For more information about KAHLES, please write: KAHLES North America, Two Slater Road, Cranston, RI 02920, call toll-free 1-866-606-8779 or visit the interactive

Web site www.KAHLESoptik.com.

Sightron Rifle Scopes - Could They Be the Next Choice For You?
By Robert Manack

Many US scope manufacturers have been around for years and years. I consider Sightron to be the "new kids on the block". Starting in 1994, just 16 short years ago, they have come a long way and have made a substantial footprint in today's sporting optics market. Sightron, located in Youngsville North Carolina, is earning a reputation for the high quality of their rifle scopes. They are no doubt raising the eyebrows of king pins like Leupold, Nikon, and Burris. Dollar for dollar, the reliability, durability and repeat performance of a Sightron rifle scope cannot be ignored. Simply put these rifle scopes equal precision optical equipment. They are designed, tested and retested for sportsmen by sportsman.

Sightron holds the patent on ExacTrack. It is the most revolutionary breakthrough in modern shooting history. This Windage and Elevation Adjustment System, features an exclusive erector tube that keeps a positive, flush point of contact, from zero alignment through even the most dramatic adjustments. In other words, you will never experience drift. Sightron scopes are as durable as any scopes on the market today because they are built on one piece, one inch aluminum main tubes. The lenses feature the Sightron's "ZACT-7 Revcoat", 7 layer coatings. The scopes are nitrogen filled, waterproof, fog proof and shock proof. It is well known that these great rifle scopes can withstand all the harsh environments that any hunting situation may present. All Sightron scopes provide excellent viewing capabilities, with extremely crisp, clear, undistorted images.
Sightron has a rifle scope to suit every hunter and budget and they all boast the famous Sightron lifetime warranty.

Today Sightron offers three impressive lines of rifle scopes. The Sl Series, the Sll Series including the "Big Sky" and the Slll Series. They also manufacture some of the most durable, high quality and comparatively priced binoculars and spotting scopes on the market.

Sl Series - These scopes feature multi coated objectives and ocular lenses for superior performances. They have the unique 720 degree focus system. Generally speaking these are the less expensive of Sightron's lines.

Sll Series - These are the most popular scopes and Sightron offers more available models than the SI and Slll lines. Sll and the Sll Big Sky series have features found in scopes costing hundreds of dollars more. This is Sightron's mid-range line and generally more expensive than the Sl series scopes.

Slll Series - The Cadillac of the Sightron S Series. They offer the long range series featuring 30mm tubes for extra strength and better light transmission. They are more than twice the thickness of many other scopes in the same class. These scopes are preferred by many big game hunters. This is Sightrons top of the line S series and is generally more expensive then the Sll models.

At 54 years old, I have hunted most of the United States for big game. My son has now come of age and enjoys hunting with his Dad. In the fall of 2009 we bought him his first big game rifle, a 7 mm-Mag and decided after everything that we had learned about Sightron's quality that it was time to give them a "shot". We equipped his new rifle with the Sightron Slll Series, 3.5-10x44, long range, mil dot reticle, scope and off to northern Arizona we flew. As we expected conditions were horrible, and the snow was deep, but we had an excellent hunt. On day four, he shot his first mule deer, a nice 4x4 rack, but by no means a trophy. I have always been a diehard Leupold man. I own many firearms and I have always equipped them with Leupold scopes but I must admit, I was absolutely amazed at the quality, durability and excellent viewing clarity that this Sightron scope provided. I may just go as far as to say that I am now a Leupold AND a Sightron man. I thank Leupold for a lifetime of hunting memories and Sightron for a future of brand new ones.

More on ..... Weaver’s Micro-Trac Adjustments:

http://www.opticstalk.com/foru...trac-adjustments#240

What is the Micro-Trac 4 Point System?

All riflescopes have an erector tube. These tubes are equipped with a means to adjust one end. This causes the point toward which the scope is looking (along with the crosshairs) to change. The Micro-Trac 4 Point System is similar to an automobile's dual independent suspension. Any adjustment made to the tube for windage is independent of any elevation changes. Therefore, when you change windage, elevation is unaffected and vice versa.

Why the Micro-Trac System is superior?

Most conventional conversion systems use 2 screws and 1 spring to adjust their erector tubes. Eventually, adjusting one screw "too much" will cause the spring to inadvertently affect the adjustment of the other variable. These other systems do not operate independently from one another like the Micro-Trac.

Most systems also have the screws baring directly down on the cylinder, whereas the Micro-Trac system bears down on a specific point of contact. Just like a ball joint in a car, this gives you better precision. The Micro-Trac erector tube is always being directed from the same point; angular motion is consistent.

Why does everyone need the Micro-Trac System?

The Micro-Trac 4 point System provides far better control of crosshair adjustments making it much easier to sight-in a rifle. Click adjustments are always consistant to a minute of angle.

The Result: Only the Weaver Grand Slam and Weaver T-Series offer such precision adjustment in a zoom scope.

More info on 2 benchrest scopes - Weaver's T-36 and the newly re-introduced Sightron SII 36X42 BR D.

http://vintagebenchrest.com/page8/page8.html

Warrior

Good rundown Warrior, interesting stuff. Takes a while to really trust a Scope, I have a bunch, and lean towards trusting Swarovski the most, though that could be because I've used it the most and it has received the most bumps and bangs in the field yet remains rocksolid on target, everytime.

Wondering if you any comments on Minox, seeing you prefer the 1" tubes? Waidmannsheil, Dom.

Dom,

We have no agent in SA for the Minox in SA.
Too new I guess at this stage.
I have seen fairly good reviews though.

Some say they are clearer than the Conquest.
I believe they are currently updating their range.
Cameraland in NY stock them - give them a call.

Bushnell is also updating their range for 2011.
After the Shot Show in the States we wll know more who launched what.
Competition is a good thing.

Warrior

We live somewhat rural in Alaska. I never get to really look over all the nice scopes; end up buying Leupolds religiously and I've never had to take a leupold off a gun; lucky I guess. An upriver buddy in Canada has a diavari, 2200 Canadian; and she is a nice one.

Thanks for the good read, hope to see more. Some like myself are quite ignorant about quality scopes; continue to buy Leupolds; refuse to pull our heads outta the sand.

I bought an Acog and two VX3's last year. Don't mind spending the bucks, just don't know how to pick the best for durability, quality , and price. Appreciate all the info. I'll pick up a used gun off Ak List, end up leaving the Buriss, leupold, or Nikon mid range on the gun; superstitious when they are right on when I come onto them.

Anyway, need to learn more, thanks

Warrior, funny you mention Cameraland, I got a Minox 5-15 from them, just having a hard time getting a mount for R93 223 barrel. Schott glass, so looks clear, biggest difference I see against high dollar so far is eye relief and the general overall quality of it, and yes it is a 1 inch. I mean for the price, it is a decent scope, won't see duty as a nightime hunter so figured should work ok on a 223.

I have Minox MD62 spotter and was so impressed bought the MD50 for a carry spotter. Good glass, hope their scopes are also.

...fwiw, minox was at one time owned by leica (until the early 2000s, i believe), and was postioned as its "value-but-quality" brand...

Some notes on the old Redfield's:

Probably the most famous Redfield product was the Widefield riflescope, introduced in 1970. It's distinguishable by its oval objective lens, which is wider than it is tall. It’s akin to a TV screen and provides upwards of 30 percent more field-of-view than conventional scopes. They were quite popular here in SA in the late 70's and through the 80's.

Another very good scope that is no longer with us is the Redfield Illuminator. I had a Redfield Illuminator in 3-9x42 mm that I was very pleased with. It had a very high gloss finish that appeared to be thick and durable. The Illuminator 3-9x42 mm had everything going for it: longer-than-average eye relief, great resolution, superb brightness and flare control, and perfect tracking. Like previous Redfield scopes, it has a low-profile eyepiece with a horizontally elongated FOV. I was most impressed with its clarity and low light performance was outstanding. Some of today's scopes are getting too big an eyepiece (43 mm to even 45 mm) and so hinder low mounting as the bolt handle does not have enough room to fully open. I prefer eyepieces to be no bigger than 41 mm's.

In 1998, the original Redfield Rifle Scopes Inc. ceased operations in Denver. Like others, it began marketing scopes with foreign components, and sought toward the end of its life to re-enter the high end of the market with its Illuminator and the 30 mm tube Ultimate Illuminator series Japanese scopes. I bought my Illuminator 3-9x42 mm scope late in 1999 and put it on my 300 H&H.

I compared it with the 3.5-10x40 mm Leupold Vari-X III on the range, and it was better just looking at a 100 m target. Then I compared it against a Mark IV tactical Leupold and its owner also agreed with me that the Illuminator was clearer. This scope was head and shoulders above their standard range in terms of image quality and resolution. It had Accu-Trac adjustments that Redfield prided themselves with. I have tested how they track by shooting a square and found them to be reliable. It had a long tube and mounting was easy. FOV was very good and target acquisition was quick.

The new Redfield's are not a patch against the former Illuminators, and I doubt if we will ever see an Illuminator coming out in the present range, as it will then be competing with the Leupold's range and create confusion with would be buyers.

Here is some bad news for owners of old Redfield's that wants service after sales:

https://forums.cabelas.com/sho...p=235232&postcount=5

Warrior

Valdada is an awesome scope. They use Schott glass.

D Humbarger

Could you share some of your experience with us.
I have seen reports on SWFA that customer service is not that great.
I looked through one and the glass was very clear.
Eye relief is still short at 80 mm, and not ideal for hard kickers.
Their latest Meopro 1"-tube scope extended eye relief to 95 mm (3.75")

Warrior

By Randy Wakeman

Carl Zeiss

Perhaps no current scope maker is carving up the deluxe scope market like Zeiss and their "made in USA" Conquest line of scopes. People seem confused about them.

1) Neither Leupold nor anyone else makes scopes for Zeiss. Other scope manufacturers do buy uncoated glass from Zeiss for their own product. Zeiss coatings are proprietary, however. No coated scope lenses are sold.

2) Zeiss Conquest tubes are made in Long Island, NY, at Zeiss' own facility.

3) Zeiss power ranges are as stated.

4) The optics in Zeiss scopes are made by Zeiss, imported from Germany.

5) Zeiss conducts sporadic destructive recoil testing; however, it is a small percentage of their production. None of these scopes are sold; they are destroyed after testing.

6) Light transmission through Zeiss Conquest tubes is approx. 93%. Zeiss was quick to point out that what degrades image quality is the grade of glass. Lead and arsenic content is destructive to scope images; that is why Zeiss is quite proud of their lead-arsenic free glass. Production of optical glass requires analysis and variation of the refraction factor, etc., so that the best possible combination and compounding ratio can be selected. To eliminate the use of lead (lead oxide), it was discovered that titanium oxide compares well with lead. Titanium oxide does no harm to the human body; it also renders a high refraction factor and is chemically stable. A big plus for scope use is more lightweight lenses, as titanium oxide is very light.

The 93% light transmission seems a bit light compared to other claims. Zeiss explained that they don't measure "light transmission" like other manufacturers, they go "air to air" not "lens-to-lens." The lead-free arsenic-free glass allows for non-distorted light, which is allegedly more perceptible and usable by the human eye, along with their own coatings, which they feel are generations ahead of the many scope gluers.

Naturally, I also asked why they felt they were "ahead?" The answer was, as they actually make their own glass (Schott), they should know a little bit more about it than people who just buy it.

Warrior

High-End Riflescopes

"Nickel is only selling riflescopes direct to hunters and target shooters. Nickel riflescopes are not available from shops. This is why the finest riflescopes Made in Germany can be offered at very attractive prices." .... from Nickel's website.

The Nickel Magnum 1,5-6x30 mm is a very interesting scope with an eyerelief of 4.9".
Little known to most of us, but well known in Germany.

Go here: ... http://www.nickel-ag.com/en/products/zf.aspx

Warrior

Weaver Super Slam

The 4-20x50 mm is a big scope, but a 2-10x42 mm is all that is needed for hunting. The whole series of Super Slams are heavy - perhaps too heavy for most. Buyers would perhaps be the varmint crowd and not those that walk and stalk with sleek rifles. However' being manufactured in Japan, and the use of premium Japanese glass that is fully multi-coated with an extra hard coating on exterior lenses, I would suspect that the Super Slam would rate above most other Asian scopes not made in Japan. They also use Argon (that is superior) to purge tubes to eliminate internal fogging. The EBX reticle is a glass-etched reticle positioned in the second focal plane. All other Super Slam reticles are second-plane reticles too, but they're made from wire and not as durable as etched reticles. I also note that they opted for a 3-point erector system with an improved spring design and so it is very durable against the opposition.

An interesting development is their latest offering of a fixed 4x38 mm scope to celebrate their 80th Anniversary with a nostalgic return of their legendary K4 steel tube scope. This commemorative scope also features all the benefits of modern technology and should be better than its predecessor. One would hope that the glass was also upgraded to at least compare with the fixed Leupold offerings. It sells for around $300 and is rather pricy. They may struggle against the Leupold.

Warrior

Recoil and scopes

Military scopes and those intended for tactical use have a higher spec and are better able to endure higher recoil. Cheap or budget line scopes should not be used on high recoiling rifles, rather buy a better made scope if you can. As it is, most commercial scope brands use only one leaf spring instead of 2 springs. Most of us are not aware of this, and nor will a salesman tender this information, unless specifically asked. Thst is to say if the salesman actually know.

Here is a good case in point of a budget scope failing ..... "I have a 378 Weatherby Mag the scope on it which was a Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40 Gloss Illuminated Reticle died on me after less then 220 rounds according to how much I've shot it over the year I've had it cost me a mint to. Where can I get a nice one for less then 200 bucks that won't shit on me in less then 500 rounds from 60 ft-lbs of recoil?"

http://www.longrangehunting.co...cope-9052/#post54106

"Nightforce scopes....spendy, yes, but they are designed to take 1200 G's of recoil force, positive and negative." This can be verified from Nightforce literature.

Hard Recoil can be tough on riflescopes. Sometimes its simply due to a powerful magnum cartridge and other times it's because the rifle is so light in weight, or worse still, mounting a cheap heavy scope on a very light rifle with high recoil.

The 458 Lotts and 500 calibers has a well deserved reputation to kill scopes. It is not just the brutal recoil, but the double whiplash that is being imparted on the internal due to the use of a muzzle break that we so often see on 50 BMG's. Most scopes, even very good respected name brands are not designed for this.

Warrior

The new Zeiss scope line, called Zeiss Duralyt, recently introduced (March 2010), is a cheaper version of the well made Victory and Classic series - all made in Germany:

They make them in 3 models:

Duralyt 1.2-5x36
Duralyt 2-8x42 ........ ( feature a very short tube for mounting)
Duralyt 3-12x50

Prices are way cheaper than previous models, and is no doubt to capyure some market share at the lower end where there in more price sensitivity. The scope is claimed to be better than the Conquest range. The manufacturer claims ... "Uncompromising ruggedness and accuracy in optics and mechanics." The reticle is in the second image level, so the reticle is not magnified during magnification change.

Glass is very clear.
All are 30 mm tubes, but they are light weight scopes.
Only one reticle is available, #6,
1cm clicks/ 100 meters,
Greyish coating,
Eye relief 90 mm / 3 1/2

Warrior

The new Leupold VX-R scope

It seems Leupold is more open now to say where their scopes are made. It has been a speculation for some time if they were truly American made. So far we have come to know that they get their glass from Asian countries, but to their spec.

With regard to the VX-R it states that it is made in Indonesia. Here is a review:

http://www.opticstalk.com/foru...-viper-review#383983

Warrior

quote:

Originally posted by Warrior:
With regard to the VX-R it states that it is made in Indonesia. Here is a review:

http://www.opticstalk.com/foru...-viper-review#383983

Warrior

That battery is made in Indonesia, is the scope made there too?

John,

Have not seen or handled one (too new), but it would be a relief if it is just the battery. Apparently the optics are the same as VX-2 scopes. I am sure the scope is on display at the Shot Show.

Warrior

I still find it strange that Leupold would use a battery from Indonesia when there is a local USA maker of batteries.

Since 1896 Eveready batteries have been there for the US user. Eveready invented the first miniture battery in the late 50's, than Alkaline batteries and lately Lithium batteries. It’s hard to believe there was a time before batteries.

Warrior

quote:

Originally posted by Warrior:
I still find it strange that Leupold would use a battery from Indonesia when there is a local USA maker of batteries.

...imho, good chance the scope was assembled in southeast asia (philippines?) using local componenets (i.e., indonesian-produced panasonic battery)...

quote:

Originally posted by JHunter:

quote:

Originally posted by Warrior:
I still find it strange that Leupold would use a battery from Indonesia when there is a local USA maker of batteries.

...imho, good chance the scope was assembled in southeast asia (philippines?) using local componenets (i.e., indonesian-produced panasonic battery)...

Not true.

Any Gold Ring scopes are assembled in the US with the tubes, bells & erectors made there too.
Lenses come from either Japan, the Philippines or Germany & are coated in the US.
I don't say this from any national ptide because after all, I'm a bleedin' Limey.

I most certainly DO hate "Ever Ready" batteries though, because they aren't - ever ready that is. Dunno where they're made.

Edit: Just looked & it appears most, if not all Ever Ready batteries are made in China.....

Eveready is made in the USA.
Duracell is made in Belgium. (also a very well known brand)
Chances are that Asian batteries are cheaper and Leupold opted for that.

Warrior