Not sure if this is the right forum or not... Here goes, got me a Rem. 700 BDL in 30-06 and I'm interested in mounting a scope. I want a Leopold VX-II in 3-9-40 or 50. Question is, what size objective lens should I get, 40 or 50mm? Any tips/suggestions are greatly appreciated.

In my opinion 50mm scopes are not necessary and can be a disadvantage.A quality 40mm scope will transmit enough light for legal hunting in most locations and it can be mounted lower which helps the shooter keep a proper cheek position on the stock.

Stubblejumper said it perfectly.

40mm is plenty. I have one 50mm and I would never buy another. However its a matter of preference. Look through several and see what strikes your fancy. I never had any problem with even the 32 MM.

The 40 mm is all you need. A friend had bought one with the 50mm and he now wishes he never bought it because of how high it has to sit.

I have a Vari-X II 3-9X power40mm on my Winchester M70 in 7mm Mag. and it is more than enough for me. I would not consider a 50mm myself.

40mm hands down is the way to go. I have one real 50mm scope a B&L 4200 4-16x 50mm and it's a great scope but, it big and heavy. You can't go wrong with a good 40mm.

This would be a great topic for the optics forum.

Like others have said, 40mm is plenty.

40mm. Good luck.

I would say to consider the 50 over the 40 only if your eyesight is hurting. Then a 50 may provide advantage over the 40. Many times, not having to look thru the smaller scope will help your shooting considerably.