Nikon Monarch vs. Leupold VX-III?

[salukipv1]

Looking for a scope for my .243win. considering.... setup for antelope....

Main question is does anyone like nikon rifle scopes, particularly their Monarch series? not Monarch Gold series. I notice its certainly priced lower than the vx-III's.

Leupold vx-iii 3.5-10x40 B&C reticle $560
4.5-14x40 AO(adj.obj.) B&C reticle $610
4.5-14x40 LR(30mm tube) B&C reticle $680

Nikon Monarch 3-12x42 SF(side focus) BDC reticle $430


The price isn't a deciding factor, but quality certainly is. I like the 3-12x range, not sure I like the BDC circles rather than crosshairs. Already have a vx-iii with the B&C and I like it, but I do like 3-12 better than I like 4.5-14, or 3.5-10 I'm thinking.

Any help?....

[BOWHUNTERCOP]

Nikon is good, between the two you mentioned, I would go with the Leupold hands down. I have Leupold VX-II 3-9x40 on most of my rifles, muzzleloaders and slug shotguns, and a VX-III on my .300 win mag

[VAhuntr]

I don't have any experience with the new Monarchs or the VX-III's, other than in the showroom where they all look great, but I do have a 2006 Nikon Monarch(3-9x40) and a Leupold VX-II(3-9x40). The Nikon is noticeably brighter and clearer to my eyes butseems to have a more narrow eye box. If I were buying a 3-9x power scope now I would pick up a Zeiss Conquest over the VX-III and save myself some money to boot.

[popeye]

I prefer the Nikon's myself. I think quality wise Nikon matches up very well with Leupold and is always a little less expensive. IMO similar quality, less money equals better value.

[oldelkhunter]

I prefer the Nikon's myself. I think quality wise Nikon matches up very well with Leupold and is always a little less expensive. IMO similar quality, less money equals better value.

Pretty much have the same feeling about those 2. BTW there is an optics forum

[skeeter 7MM]

Posted my reply in the optic forum thread[8D]

[DANTHEHUNTER]

I like them both but to answer your question.If you ask me to to pick I would take the nikon!

[dirtythirtym30]

Have heard all good about Monarch. I am looking at a Votex 3.5 - 10 x 40 or 50. Have not used Vortex scope but have two pair of binos and spotting scope. All feedback is excellent. They have an excellent warranty also and excellent dollar value

M30

[Edcyclopedia]

4.5-14x40 LR(30mm tube) B&C reticle $680

[whitetaildreamer]

I'd go with the Nikon but that is only personal preference and not to say anything bad about the Leupold. For the prices you have quoted I would also check out the Zeiss Conquest for it is also in that price range and an excellent scope.