now that I have my rifle i'm now in the process of deciding on a scope. I know this topic has been discussed ad infinitum but I've looked at Nikon & Leupold and have decided the Leupold has what i'm looking for (nothing against Nikon). I've also narrowed my choices down to the VXII and/or VXIII. I know that the VXIII will be the better choice, but the VXII isn't bad either for a beginner. i'm trying to be practical about my first scope. i'm leaning towards the VXII mainly because it's cheaper and I feel it will still get the job done when hunting for white-tail deer. as I grow accustomed to my rifle and how it shoots I will hopefully get better at long-range shots, however, I don't plan on taking shots past 250-300 yds. the VXII seems like a good middle-ground scope that doesn't suck in terms of quality but also one that won't break the bank. I could afford the VXIII but is it what I really need? having a bigger objective lens would certainly be great and better light transmission might make the difference between whether I eat or not, but in the end does it make that much of a difference?

The VXII's are coated more like the old Vari-X III's. Both VX's has a 3 piece body, (which I don't like), but the VXIII's have more clarity and better coatings.

I buy VXII's for deer guns, I buy VXIII's (with target turrets) for LR varmit and target.

Love both, have more of the VX-II scopes then the III's

i just put the VX III on my .325, and i did a lot of homework before I went that way... the clarity is better and it truly was an amazing scope for the price. I have used the VX II's and there is NO WAY that i would go back... my eyes arent as good as they used to be, but it doesnt matter with the VX III!

ok, fellas, I did it. I ordered myself a Leupold VX3 scope today and got a pretty good deal to boot. i'm excited

I have both and love them.
If you have the funds available then go with the VX-III

Carl, you made a wise decision. The little extra money will pay off in the future. Enjoy.