Comparing two scopes:

1) Burris Black Diamond 3-12X50 (used, has 30 mm tube)

2) Bushnell Elite 4200 2.5-10X50 (new, has 1" tube)

To be mounted on a Tikka Sporter, for range shooting upto 300 yards and deer hunting from a stand in the fall.

Any opinions on which is a better scope and why?

Thanks
340

Go with Leupold they beat them all hands down!!!!!!!!

Well I found this article last night, I enjoyed it, hope you do....

http://www.chuckhawks.com/scoping_out.htm

Good reading on scopes. I like Burris better then Bushnell myself though I havn' t used their Elite' s. Have heard though that the 4200 is as good as a Leupold if not better. Myself, I would have to spend some quality time with one before coming to that decision.

To be honest, both will do just fine. Given the choices, I' d take the Bushnell simply because it' s new.

I prefer the elite but I would never own a scope with a 50mm lens.

I would recommend against the Leupold if your rifle kicks at all. The Burris is way stronger, and gets alot better light. I was considering putting a Leupold on My Marlin 45/70, then I checked out a Burris. I don' t like Bushnells that much either, but like others I have not shot the Elite series, and I have heard good things about them. Good luck man.

Since I have experience with a Elite 4200 and Burris Sign. Series(both in 50mm), either should work. However given my experience the Burris is lighter, shorter and long in eye relief, it as well appears to be clearer to my eye. The 4200 is brighter but not as clear. Both scopes maintain POI, track true and have yet to cost me a shot or opportunity while in the field. My personal experience would have me looking at the Burris, but they ain' t to far apart. I also use the 3200 and the Varix III (loopy), all have been up to the task i have asked of them and come with a lifetime warranty.

I say buy the scope that looks good to your eye, as I have learned what some perceive as better may not hold true to you.

Good Luck.