30mm Minox scopes seem to be priced nicely.

Are they junk?

How would they compare to Leupold VX-3?

I had a ZA5 - nice glass but I didn't like the reticle. Just too thin at the center posts.

My preference is to the Leupold VX3 and 6 lines. They just plain work well for hunting.

Lots of deals? On ZA-5 5-25x56 scopes. Was kind of thinking a hoax was in order.

They either have horrible or wonderful reviews. Not sure what to make ofit.

I have bought several Minox scopes from gr8fldoug and the good folks at CameralandNY. All were supposedly open box specials but they all seemed new to me.
My opinion: I love the 3-9x40s with the BDC. I just got a 2-10BDC and a 4.5x14BDCSF. The 2-10 is also great. The 4.5x14SF had a sticky focus turret. Doug got me in touch with Minox and they straightened out the issue pronto.
I also have a 3-15 which I have yet to warm up to. I went too cheap and bought the model without SF and I don't like the view at 250 yards and further out. I am sure Minox will take care of my concern; I just haven't taken the time to talk with them about it.
The prices at CameralandNY were so ridiculously low, I, too, suspected a hoax. Instead, I got very fine scopes at about 45% the cost of a comparable quality (to my eyes, and I only care about my view through any scope) Leupold. It's hard to beat that kind of deal.
I suggest you contact Doug and ask him. He's a hard working, no B.S. guy.