Ensure that you buy you scope on either eBay or this place for the best price...

http://theopticzone.com/default.aspx

I had a VXI for at least 10 years with not one minute of problem from it.It held the zero perfectly and never lost it in over 10 years.Optics were good and I liked the gloss black on it also.I also love Burris optics and in my opinion are just as good as Leupold in every way.I never owned Nikon so it may be a nice scope but I will only comment on what I have dealt with. Mike

I have a Vx1 3X9#40 on my Encore and I don't know why some would say their junk, this is a great scope. I know some just don't like Leupold and that's fine but don't bash them just cause you can't afford one...LOL Last I looked on the top of the gun board scope poll Leupold was at 41% favorite on this forum..

I have a Nikon Buckmaster and I'm surprised when I hear folk speak well of it. Thinking about it tho, mine has seen quite a bit of use and is still holding true. I expected more out of it tho as far as the light gathering potential of it. I think I'm fixing to pull it of my 270 and put it on my Mini 14 as it seems to be pretty hard on scopes . . . .we'll see.

I have used and have both scopes you mention. Now that being said, I would buy a Burris II hands down to either of your mention scopes! I do alot of hunting in low light, and honestly the Burris II is the best of all of them! My 2 cents?
Mike