I own higher mag scopes for target/varmit hunting but when it comes to biggame above 10x I see no need. My hunting situations offer everything from tight cover of the forest/trees to wide open plains. My hunting range from in position/situations is 0 -500ish yards. I've take a lot of animals past 200 yards with no more then 9 or 10x, ie last fall antelope buck 438. For me high mag is great in a more controlled situation where you have a solid rest,etc. For me personally this doesn't equate to my big game hunting "real world". I am definately of the opinion less mag better glass is the way to go. When you think about when opportunities arise low light better glass will pay dividents in full and higher mag isn't always an option in poor light making one power down. Ie: big buck cruising along the treeline in the last few minutes of legal...no skyline, you want as much light as possible.

I'm sorry the thought of hunters using their scopes to field judge animals gives my the willy's. I had an experience where a shot rang by me from a guy who didn't know his target and beyond, nor adhered to always assume your gun is loaded. Used his scope as binos and accidentally touched one off!!! I thank god he missed! Guys/Gals please use binos or spotting scopes for assessing and not your rifle!!!

In terms of the scope all 3 have good followings. Pick the one that looks the best to your eyes.

Good Luck