40mm vs. 50mm obj. lens
 

Word on the street is that the larger the obj. lens, the more light the scope transmits. I also hear that the dia. of the tube makes a difference. W/ that being said, what's better, a 40 or 50mm obj. lens on a 1" dia. scope tube? I'm thinking of a new Leupold VX3, either the 3.5-10x40 or 50 or the VX3 4.5-14x40 or 50. When would you want a 40mm vs. 50mm & vice versa?

I like 40mm objectives it allows better head alignment for myself. If I was shooting long range I would go for a 30mm tube, for more verticle adjustment. Good luck.

Plans for the said scope?

Whitetail deer & pronghorn antelope, out to 400 yds. (most shots w/in 150 yds.) Mounted on Win. Mod 70 .270

Dont go higher than the 3.5-10 magnification. For shots that close you dont need to have the scope set past 5 anyways. I think a 2-7x40 is a great option. If you are constantly taking shots at dawn or dusk than a 50mm objective might help but most likely you wont see a difference in the 40 to 50 except in price

Agree that 3.5-10 would be perfect. I actually have a 50mm leupold, and it does have great light transmission early and late. It was slightly better than the 40mm leupold I replaced, but not neccessarily needed. Both were alot better than lesser scopes for sure.

The only advantage I see for the 50mm (+) objectives is: The exit pupil can be a bit higher at higher magnification. In other words, in order to achieve a desirable EP, the 50mm may be able to be used at slightly higher magnification levels than a 40mm lens.

I prefer 40-42 mm objectives for most hunting applications...as long as the glass is great with good coatings. Most 50+ units are heavier and seem more bulky to me.

Will prob. stick w/ the 3.5-10x40 as 50mm I'll need to to mount high rings wont I?

50+ mm objective scopes often times need high rings and may hinder good cheek weld and/or constant, repeatable sight picture alignment.

Cheek weld.....gotta have that! You cant shoot without drooling/groping your gun? Nothing like absorbing recoil with your face. Just saying.....