I am planning on buying a new scope for a custom .338-06 I am having built. The gun's intended purpose is elk hunting in thick timber. I'm sure it will get plenty of other use, as well. My question is, does a 50mm objective make a great deal of difference in the black timber? Does it really gather more light and make shooting easier?

Also, does it hinder you in wide open country when the sun is shining?

Right now, my choices are narrowed down to the Leupold VXIII in 2.5-8x36mm (standard diameter objective) or the Leupold VXII 3-9x50mm. I would even consider the VXIII 3.5-10x50mm, if you think it is a significantly better scope that the VXII.

Does the larger objective increase field of view?

Good Dogwork and Good Hunting