I'm not sure that Nikon still offers the Monarch in 3-9X40 and I have no feel for what this scope in used/as new condition might be worth. Can someone help me put a reasonable number on it?

This one hasn't been made in quite a few years but is one of the better pure, no-frills hunting scopes out there. They are rugged, reliable and are excellent across the board -- from predictable tracking and adequate eyebox to its ability to resolve fine detail under adverse conditions. Plus, the somewhat heavier dimensions of the Nikoplex make much more sense and make it more user-friendly in low light than, say, a conventional Swaro plex or Leupy duplex, which are too thin for my usage.

Depending on the condition, they normally sell from 140-150 in decent condition to upwards of 200 for a minty specimen.

In its heyday, the chief competitor of the Monarch 3-9x40 was the Vari-X II, a very sound scope in its own right. But back then I always preferred the Nikon over the Leupy for its optical excellence, particularly for dark-colored hogs under poor lighting.

Fast-forwarding a few years: Leupold now offers the VX2, which I see as a distinct step up from the older Vari-X II. Nikon's lineup, to me, has not made any real improvements other than the limited Gold line. But there are no flies on the current Monarchs, either. It's just that Leupy has made some nice strides in terms of advancements. Today, I'd take the VX2 over the Monarch 2.5-10x42 in a heartbeat. With that being said, however, the 2.5-10x42 is no slouch, either, and would serve one quite admirably.

Thanks for that rundown, Bobby!

It was more than you asked for -- and I know that you are more than just familiar with anything I may have mentioned. But I added the "extra" detail for those who may have missed out on knowing a good scope from a few years ago. While new is certainly nice, the better quality used scopes sitting out there are still capable of doing a good job, too.

Have a great day!

Bobby,

I was not at all familiar with the Nikon line and really appreciate your assessment. This scope came on a rifle I just bought (but have not yet received) and I'll probably offer it for sale sometime soon, so it's good to know what someone who is experienced with these thinks.

Now they do it under brand ProStuff

http://www.nikonsportoptics.co...-9x40-matte-bdc.html

The ProStaff is not the same as the original Nikon Monarch (and Japanese-made pre-Monarch line).