Looking for a scope for my .243win. considering.... setup for antelope....

Main question is does anyone like nikon rifle scopes, particularly their Monarch series? not Monarch Gold series. I notice its certainly priced lower than the vx-III's.

Leupold vx-iii 3.5-10x40 B&C reticle $560
4.5-14x40 AO(adj.obj.) B&C reticle $610
4.5-14x40 LR(30mm tube) B&C reticle $680

Nikon Monarch 3-12x42 SF(side focus) BDC reticle $430


The price isn't a deciding factor, but quality certainly is. I like the 3-12x range, not sure I like the BDC circles rather than crosshairs. Already have a vx-iii with the B&C and I like it, but I do like 3-12 better than I like 4.5-14, or 3.5-10 I'm thinking.

Any help?....

Nikon is good, between the two you mentioned, I would go with the Leupold hands down. I have Leupold VX-II 3-9x40 on most of my rifles, muzzleloaders and slug shotguns, and a VX-III on my .300 win mag

I don't have any experience with the new Monarchs or the VX-III's, other than in the showroom where they all look great, but I do have a 2006 Nikon Monarch(3-9x40) and a Leupold VX-II(3-9x40). The Nikon is noticeably brighter and clearer to my eyes butseems to have a more narrow eye box. If I were buying a 3-9x power scope now I would pick up a Zeiss Conquest over the VX-III and save myself some money to boot.

I prefer the Nikon's myself. I think quality wise Nikon matches up very well with Leupold and is always a little less expensive. IMO similar quality, less money equals better value.

Pretty much have the same feeling about those 2. BTW there is an optics forum

Posted my reply in the optic forum thread[8D]

I like them both but to answer your question.If you ask me to to pick I would take the nikon!

Have heard all good about Monarch. I am looking at a Votex 3.5 - 10 x 40 or 50. Have not used Vortex scope but have two pair of binos and spotting scope. All feedback is excellent. They have an excellent warranty also and excellent dollar value

M30

4.5-14x40 LR(30mm tube) B&C reticle $680

I'd go with the Nikon but that is only personal preference and not to say anything bad about the Leupold. For the prices you have quoted I would also check out the Zeiss Conquest for it is also in that price range and an excellent scope.