RE: Need scope comparison advice
I have experience with a Leupold Vari-X II and 2 Nikon Monarchs (which is supposed to be above the Buckmasters and Pro Staff). One of the Monarchs was great, the other was not. Just not clear and bright as the other. Why I have no clue. The Leupold Vari-X II, while maybe a decent value was not up to what I expect out of a scope. Low light performance really suffered. If you can go $250-$300, look at the Bushnell Elite 4200. If you can go $450-$500, look at the Zeiss Conquest.