Brother of a friend has a two year old Leupold Vari-X III 3.5X10X50 gloss scope for sale. He wants $350 for it, about $180 less than a new one. Any opinions on if this is a good price? How much depreciation do you figure on a used quality scope? Warranty is for life and transferable, isn't it?

gobuffs, you can get new one, same model, for $459, shipping included, from http://www.bearbasin.com. So your savings is more in the area of $110 than $180. I figure about 25% depreciation on a Leupold for one in excellent condition is a pretty good deal, so this one's in the ballpark. And yes, the lifetime warranty is on the scope regardless of owner.

That said, you might want to take a look at the new VX-II line. Bearbasin shows the 3-9X50 for $319, and the 3-9X40 for only $259.

Thanks, Legionnaire. I offered him $300 for it, he said no but I'll let him think about it for awhile. As long as you offered up the VXII as an alternative, how would you compare Vari XIII to Bushnell elite 4200 and Zeiss conquest? I've got two kids in diapers so want to make sure that the scope I buy is the very best for the money.

sounds a little high.