Bad Luck, We all have it once in awhile. Dang 2 Bad Nikon BDC Scopes. When I was in the market for a Good ML Scope I had a choice between the Nikon and The Leupold Ultimate Slam ML Scope, both were about the same in price but I bought the Leupold. So far it has been the Best Scope I have Owned. Plus the Leupold has a Lifetime Warranty and it extends to anyone who may have the scope after you purchase it Forever. I dont even use the BDC on it, My ML shoots flat enough that sighted in at 2" High at 50yds I can hold High in the Lungs and still be good out to 180yds.
I know aht you mean about not being able to tell the size of Deer when there in Tall Grass, I Hunt a Place where there's a Swamp and a-lot of Swamp Grass, I've had Deer come through the Grass that looked Small so I Passed, but when they got out of the Grass they were BIG, too late for a shot.
Our Hunting Season has'nt been all that great this Season either, I still have 3 more weeks to go so Im Not going to Complain Yet.
Best of Luck To You!
(BP)