Whenever a company discontinues or "improves a product, then these improved models take precedence over the older model. If a new series of optic is improved over the old, then the company has to find a way to clear the old models so that they don't interfere with the sales push of the new one. That is exactly what sportsmans guide does. They buy large lots of gear from the manufacturers in these situations. And I have dealt with sportsmans guide for 5 years. If they say the item is brand new and covered by the manufacturers warranty, then it is so. Besides, when do you actually buy an optic from redifield or Leupold? You buy it from Cabela's, Gander Mountain, or such. Anyway I am going to get a pair as a spare in case my optolyths need repair. they will come in handy when one of my hunting buddies forgets his binos or in case of accidental damage.
Thanks
mco