I used to have a Nikon 3x9 on my hunting rifle. Last light one day overlooking a field and 2 deer walked out. I couldn't ID if one was a buck or not, the optics just didn't quite have enought light-gathering, even though it was about 5 minutes before end of legal shooting light. So, next year I moved that scope to my .223 and bought a Zeiss. I haven't been in quite the same situation again but it is much brighter and sharper than any other scope I've looked through and confidence speaks volumes when it comes to performing any sport, especially hunting. I feel it was worth the $600 the scope cost.