Originally Posted by
emtrescue6
For that budget I would look at the following brands...
1. Kahles (
http://www.kahles.at/)
2. Schmidt & Bender (
http://www.schmidtundbender.de/en/)
3. Swarovski (
http://www.swarovskioptik.us/en_us/)
4 Zeiss (
http://www.zeiss.com/sports)
I wouldn't even consider any Loupy in the same class as these manufacturers (especially over the past 10 years or so...their quality has dropped noticeably)...of the above, I have looked through all of them and have shot through all of them, but the only one I own is a Kahles (a 2.5-10x40 on a target rifle)...that I bought used...it knocks the socks off what I have on any other rifle...I am afraid to place it on a hunting rifle! haha! I am envious, I wish I could drop $1500 on a scope today for my new Savage Model 10 (FLCP-K) in 308...alas it's getting a new Swift (not complaining, as i really like their glass).
Best of luck!
I also find this a curious statement. The new VX3's and now the newer VX6's are rather nice. Kahles are great but they have had CS / distribution problems in the US for the last several years. Until they get it together, I'd not be looking at Kahles. S&B scopes are obviously nice, but their prices have recently jumped. I only have one S&B scope (Summit) which was their attempt at a 1" tube model aimed directly at the US market. The glass is awesome...the reticle selection weak...IMO. They now retail for 2K which is too high IMO. I'm a Swaro slut (have 3) that have all been wonderful. Additionally, their CS is top notch. I only have 2 Zeiss scopes (Conquest and Duralyt) both of which are very nice. There are many great choices out there now.