Shopping for a new scope to go onmy next rifle. Planning on a combo varmint/deer rig in .25-06. Looking at a 4x12 power; keeping under the $300 mark, what does everyone recommend? Right now considering the Nikon Buckmaster 4.5x14 or the Leupold VX-I in 4x12. Thoughts on either of these oranother scope I should consider?
Thanks

Go with the buckmaster. Leupolds are great, but stay away from anything under at least vx2.

x2

I have a VX-1 2-7x33 on a muzzleloader(picked it up for less than $95) and it does well for what I use it for. IMO though, you can get a lot more scope for your money with the Buckmaster.

Yeah, the VXI Leupy's are crap.

Nikon.

Same goes here. VX1's are ok, but the Nikon will have brighter optics. I just wish they would take "Buckmaster" off the damn thing. Makes it look like junk, not a Bushman fan at all.I have a 2x7Monarch that I swear is brighter than my 3x9VX2.

I know what you mean, but the Buckmaster is a pretty darn good scope. I have a 3-9x40 Monarch that is definately brighter and clearer than a 3-9x40 VX-2 and right on par with my friend's VX-3. I will say that the Leupold's are less picky when it comes to eye relief though.

What's wrong with Buckmasters and Jackie Bushman?

I have the Nikon 3x9x40 buckmasters the the BDC reticle and its GREAT. Great low-light vision and wonderful clarity.

I have had both of them. My Buckmaster was awful picky about eye relief. I finally sold it. I never had any problem with the VX-I and maybe I just got a lemon in the Buckmaster. I would look at the 3200 Busnell as well,