I have the Zeiss 3.5-10X44 and I'm extremely pleased with it's performance. Tex...I was in the same boat as you about 2 years ago and asked for opinions. The only thing I really found out was people knew alot more about light refraction and whatnot than what I wanted an answer for (not to cut you smart guys down) but I think people get way to caught up in things that you aren't really looking for. Some guy's were really helpful, (Stbble & Skeeter being a couple of them). Ultimately, I looked at all the scopes I was considering, and made my decision after that. Everyone here has great opinions but listen to those who are using the product. With that I'll just say from my time with my Zeiss, I'm extremely pleased, it is clear and captures plenty of light for the typical hunting hours I hunt. It stood up tremendously well in the bitter cold (had 2 buddies, one with a Remington scope the other with a Bush. 3200) and it handled the cold better by far. I previously had a Leoupld and it was good, but I must admit my Zeiss is just a step above. My vote is on the Zeiss. Hope you have fun with it! JDinAB