Leupold VX3 choice

[icon308win]

im really thinking og getting a vx3 im stuck between the 2.5-8x36 or the 3.5-10x40 what am I gaining or losing with each which is brightest. Also what is thought on heavy duplex reticle

[BRUSE]

What are you mounting this on? I put the 3.5x10x40 on my 25/06. I would take it over the other due to greater field of view and you never know when you just might want the extra magnifacation. I'm not a big fan of the heavy duplex but others love it.

[Topgun 3006]

I just bought a VXI 4-12x40 for the Sako .243 that I'll be picking up down in Texas that my Dad left me when he passed on 9/11. I have reticles of both types and sort of like the heavy duplex ones as my eyes are getting older, LOL! Hey dude, when is your flight due out of that hellhole back to the states? We need to start thinking about a bird hunt or something bigger for next Fall!

[Big Uncle]

I have a few of each of those scopes and use the 2.5x8 on either light rifles (700 Mountain Rifle, ULA type rifles) or heavier recoiling rifles. I have the 2.5x8 on a .375 H&H and a .375 Ruger and find it to be a perfect fit for that purpose.
The 3.5x10 works better as a general purpose game scope for me. I have them on various 7mm and 30 caliber rifles for most of my big game hunting. The 3.5x10 is about an inch longer and has a bit bigger objective than the 2.5x8, but the little extra magnification is nice. Both have very good eye relief, are light, and tough enough to handle knocks and recoil.

[icon308win]

it will be going on a Thompson Center Icon in 308 I like the 2.5 -8x36 where i I hunt is in the woods.Most shots be around 25 to 75 yds I thought the 2.5-8 might be easier to focus at the range.But then I think the 3.5-10 x40 might be brighter.

[bugsNbows]

I'd vote for the 2.5-8 X 36. I have one on the wife's Ruger Compact. It's about perfect. Set it on 2.5 and forget it (unless a longer shot presents itself). Good luck.

[WV Hunter]

For what you are using it for, imo the 2.5-8 would be a better choice. Both are very bright...and I personally would NOT get the heavy duplex. I had one, sold it after one season. I hated it, but that is me.

If you are intent on the expensive Leupolds, you might want to look at the 3-9x40 Zeiss Conquest. I think they are as good (actually a little better) than Leupold.

Honestly, for what you are saying...I'd probably get a 3-9x40 VX II. They are on sale right now for $239 at several places. You won't notice the difference between that and the III, imo. I have had both models in various sizes...that is my opinion. Even a 2-7x33 might be perfect for you. I have one of those too on my sons gun. LOL

Best thing for you to do is go somewhere and look through a bunch and see what gives you the warm fuzzy.