I can't decide between the Nikon Monarch or a Leupold VX II. I know the Leupold pulls in light very well, does anyone know about the Nikon? It'll be mounted on a .243. My decision will be made based on light transmission (because I'm blind as a bat when it starts getting dark!). Thanks in advance!

I just purchased a new scope. I spent hours looking through scopes and reading here. Personally I liked the NIKON better. For my eyes. Then I looked through a ZEISS and that was all it took. Walked out of the store yesterday with it.
hope this helps

I was in the same predicament and I was comparing the Loopy VXIII the Nikon Monarch Gold and the Zeiss Conquest. When I picked up the conquest it beat all the others hands down. Since you asked I would go with the nikon the the loopy. jmo

I've heard the Nikon pulls in more light than the Leupold, but I guess I'll just have to go see for myself. I guess I'll have to look at the Zeiss now too. Thanks guys!

I'd opt for the Loopy seeing the new VX II has the same multicoating as the previous Vari x III, tranferable warranty & great CS. However since you've added The Conquest it is head and tails above the original ones mentioned...so enjoy your new Zeiss!

The Monarch beats the vx2 hands down. VXII is multicoated only on the very outside lenses. The VXIII is fully multicoated and is a fair comparison to the Monarch. Both are great scopes. I just ordered the Zeiss Conquest which to me is a little better.

jd3006, the new VXII (2004 model) uses the same coatings Multicoat 4 as last years Vari X III (fully Mulitcoated). Previous models you are 100% correct.

Good choice on the Zeiss I think you'll be very pleased.

i use the nikon buckmaster and i know the monarch is supposed to be better but i sure do like the buckmaster. i have lo0oked thru a monarch and it does have great clarity and is fog water and shock proof as is the buckmaster so your getting a great scope for sure
rob k

I posted a similar response in another part of this forum. We actually tested, with a light meter both Leupold and Nikon scopes. The Nikon was a tad bit brighter. I don't think it was enough that most of us could note, but it was brighter. Saying that, I still always go with Leupold. I only own 1 Nikon. It's a great scope but, I have 8 leupolds, Good old made in the USA quality!