actually Todd the buckmaster is the middle line.

economy line = prostaff

2nd tier = buckmaster

upper line = monarch UCC

I beleive Nikon is getting a bad rap because their optics in the "picture" world have declined in recent years, fairly or unfairly. I believe that the monarch and VX-III ar very similar. One problem I have with the VX-III is the three piece tube. Leupolds are known for their ruggedness, but this recent switch concerns me. I also try not to buy a scope because of name recognition. When you purchase a Leupold you are paying a premium because of their lineage, their great customer support, and the expectance of a superior product. I ussually try to get the best bang for the buck.