Is it worth upgrading a scope?

[MS 9x56]

I guess it depends on whether you feel the need for a higher performance optic.I have several scopes up to 9 and 12 power that have never been used above 4 power. The final question in my observation would be is it needed or just wanted?

 

[Wyatt Smith]

I went from your exact scope to an older VX-6 with the capped turrets. Big difference and was worth the upgrade.

I should add the VX-6 is the 1-6 power so not really a magnification upgrade just quality.

 

[Beck]

poor man's swarovski

https://www.eurooptic.com/meopta-meostar-r2-17-10x42-rd-with-4c-reticle-sfp-red-illuminated-573850

 

[Mark Biggerstaff]

Here is what I would buy before they are all gone, Gen 2 version is hitting the market and this is a great price on 2-10 firedot. I am a huge Leupold fan and that is about all I use.

Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm CDS-ZL2 FireDot Duplex Scope 171389 | SHIPS FREE! - EuroOptic

Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm CDS-ZL2 FireDot Duplex Scope 171389 | Only at EuroOptic.com!

www.eurooptic.com

 

[CBeck]

Interestingly, I’m running a Hawke 1–8 illuminated on my .375—largely because the consensus here was that an illuminated reticle is a must, and after watching Phil’s video about having more versatility in magnification..

Before that, I had a Weaver Grand Slam 1.5–5 on it, and honestly, I think I preferred it. It was simpler, lighter, more compact, and did everything I needed…. In fact, now, I have two weavers sitting in a drawer, unused and in new condition.

Don’t get me wrong—the Hawke is a great scope. It’s just bigger and a bit more complicated. If everyone hadn’t made the older setup feel so antiquated, I’d probably still be using the Weavers.

I’m generally not one to follow public opinion or give in to peer pressure, but for some reason, when it comes to this forum, I can’t help myself. Lol.

All that said, I also have a German precision optics 1.5 to 9 x 32i on another rifle which I like quite a bit and would be very good on a dangerous game rifle as well

All this to say…are they more versatile, definitely, are they better, I’m not sure…

Frontier 30 FD 1-8x24 L4A FD

All models feature Hawke's new H7 optics with high zoom ratio, supreme clarity and light transmission. Supreme accuracy for rifle shooting, driven and hunting applications. Capped Low-Profile Turrets. 30mm Mono-Tube Chassis. Illumination. Wide Angle FOV. High Volume Eyebox. 100mm Eye Relief...

us.hawkeoptics.com

SPECTRA 6X 1.5-9x32i - GPO USA

GPO SPECTRA 1.5-9x32i Compact Riflescope: Versatile Performance for Diverse Shooting. Includes GPObright High-Transmission Lens Coating Technology.

gpo-usa.com

 

[crackerman]

Wow all I did not expect this simple thread to spark so much discussion but I appreciate it.

I did watch Professor Glass's video a few times. The gun in going to be used when I go on my next safari as a one gun safari for PG and DG. I will probably be doing the 2-10x scope because I plan to use it for bear, maybe moose if I get luck with the draw here in NH.

The scope was essentially free from a friend when it came on a Ruger #1 and Leupold did fix it for free so I can't complain to much.

 

[Mtn_Infantry]

Wow all I did not expect this simple thread to spark so much discussion but I appreciate it.

I did watch Professor Glass's video a few times. The gun in going to be used when I go on my next safari as a one gun safari for PG and DG. I will probably be doing the 2-10x scope because I plan to use it for bear, maybe moose if I get luck with the draw here in NH.

The scope was essentially free from a friend when it came on a Ruger #1 and Leupold did fix it for free so I can't complain to much.

That VX5HD 2-10, or even 3-15x44 isn’t a bad option. I ran the 3-15x44 on my 375 and it was great for a few longer shots I took. With most of my hunt now being DG with a opportunistic PG hunting I switched that scope to a VX6HD 2-12. I’ve considered a Swaro Z6 1.7-10. I should note this rifle will primarily accompany a double rifle moving forward as more of a secondary option

 

[HookMeUpII]

Here is what I would buy before they are all gone, Gen 2 version is hitting the market and this is a great price on 2-10 firedot. I am a huge Leupold fan and that is about all I use.

Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm CDS-ZL2 FireDot Duplex Scope 171389 | SHIPS FREE! - EuroOptic

Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm CDS-ZL2 FireDot Duplex Scope 171389 | Only at EuroOptic.com!

www.eurooptic.com

I am also a huge Leupold fan and that is another amazing deal from EuroOptic. I have 2 of their Vx5's, 1 of the Patrol 6, 1 set of binos, and 1 rangefinder that should be here tomorrow.

If he likes the 2-10x the VX5 would be the choice.
If he likes a more patrol optic/low mag scope, the Patrol 6 would be the one.

Can't go wrong with either of those. Tough as nails scopes.

Swaro, Leica, Meopta are all great. Leupold is almost just as good at a much more affordable pricepoint. Especially with those deals.

 

[mdwest]

. I ran the 3-15x44 on my 375 and it was great for a few longer shots I took.

I’m not the only one!

My 375 is currently topped with a 3-12x44 Zeiss… and I love it…

I was originally concerned the 3x low end was too high for DG (specifically buffalo)… and that there was no practical need for the high 12x end even for PG at the distances I’d shoot a 375…

But.. it’s worked out great so far… and I’ve been really pleased with the versatility

 

[Mtn_Infantry]

I’m not the only one!

My 375 is currently topped with a 3-12x44 Zeiss… and I love it…

I was originally concerned the 3x low end was too high for DG (specifically buffalo)… and that there was no practical need for the high 12x end even for PG at the distances I’d shoot a 375…

But.. it’s worked out great so far… and I’ve been really pleased with the versatility

I found on 3 of the different DG species that I’ve shot all in the 7-15 yds range I don’t even really use the scope or crosshairs. At those distances in thick jess it happens so fast that I’m instinctively shooting. Both eyes are open, I’m walking/squared to the target, mounting the gun while swinging/pointing, and looking past/through the scope (not actually through the ocular/lens but through as if it didn’t exist). I’m shooting almost as if it was a shotgun and I was shooting a rabbit or deer over dogs.

You and I also have a different shooting background/training than most which might be why we’ve been able to overcome the 3x up close. The magnification definitely came in handy for a couple of 300+ yd pokes. I’m hoping the 2-12 (with an illuminated dot) is an even better than 3-15.

 

[mark-hunter]

I have a tendency to want the new shiny thing, but I’m wondering is there any reason I need to upgrade that scope when I decide to chase buffalo again?

My philospohy:
If you dont hunt buffalo every day, 365 days a year, then get best possible scope, to get maximum performance in twilight and low light condition in that 10 day buffalo hunt of yours, for which you prepared for months or maybe years.

Best glass will give you more options on the ground for other things at night, for example: add on leopard.

My expereince:
Once I added best glass on rifle (like Swaro or Zeiss) I never felt sorry.
I admit, paying is painful experience.
But once I got over it, like next second after, I always felt fulfilled, and that sensation of fulfilment remain permanent.

With lower quality glass, I always felt something is missing.

 

[coreydb]

I'd leave well enough alone. You already have what you need for DG, unless the "want" takes over the decision making. The highest power I ever used in my DG hunting was 3x. But that's me and my eyes. As long as I can focus the scope for my eyes, I'm good.

 

[WAB]

I have used the Leupold VX6i 1-6x24 with good success on buffalo. IMO, the ultimate scope in this application would be the first gen Swarovski Z8i 1-6x24. I have one mounted on a 7x57. Incredible scope whose only real drawback is the large eyepiece which can affect flexibility in mounting the scope.

 

[45-70guy]

Wow all I did not expect this simple thread to spark so much discussion but I appreciate it.

I did watch Professor Glass's video a few times. The gun in going to be used when I go on my next safari as a one gun safari for PG and DG. I will probably be doing the 2-10x scope because I plan to use it for bear, maybe moose if I get luck with the draw here in NH.

The scope was essentially free from a friend when it came on a Ruger #1 and Leupold did fix it for free so I can't complain to much.

Being a Granite stater, the Low power scopes seem natural for us to use in the thick woods.
I’m going to Limpopo this may and plan to use my 1.5x5 on a 35 whelen.
But for my moose hunt this September in Canada I have a 2.5x8 for more versatility.

The 1.5x5 currently on my 200 yd range that scope is plenty even on 4x and they just feel good!

 

[deewayne2003]

Euro Optics often has exceptional deals of rifle scopes. I purchased a Schmidt and Bender Polar for its 93% Light Transmission at 44% off!

If the OP's Leupold 1.5-5X doesn't have a lighted reticle, I recommend the Leupold 1-6x Patrol at Euro Optic for 44% off at $749. https://www.eurooptic.com/leupold-p...mm-sfp-illum-firedot-duplex-riflescope-182398

The Patrol was on sale at $699 for several months. I watch Euro Optic for deals and have learned that when their inventory of discounted scopes gets low, they raise the price a little. Yes, it appears that is one wants to buy a 1-6x Patrol, they better hurry!

My opinion is for a real dangerous game scope, I mean when one could face an animal ready to kill them charging at full speed within 10 yards, I want a true 1x with lighted reticle with which I will instinctively shoulder the rifle and see the lighted crosshairs with both eyes open. In this situation the lighted 1x functions virtually the same as a reflex sight. This scenario is however vary unlikely for most of us. Following a wounded leopard, the PH will be first and I bet you they will use iron sights or a reflex. As clients who wounded the cat, we may be “asked” to stay behind.

For a more versatile dangerous and plains game scope I agree with others, a 2-10x or 2-12x is perhaps better. Magnification above 6x on most African animals is really not required but is darn handy for scoping out the horn / trophy size. I have Leupold VX-5 2-10x on my .375 H&H. This scope is a great value. Other scopes like Swarovski and Schmidt and Bender have "better glass" but in 99% of all shot situations other than at dawn and dusk, the Leupold is just fine. Still, I am watching Euro Optic for a killer deal on a Schmidt and Bender 1-8x at about half of retail price. This one is 15% off but the price doesn't provide enough added functionality over the Leupold 1-6x Patrol scopes that I recently “stocked” up on.

Like most fine items, the increase in functionality is linier while the increase in price is exponential.

PS: Leupold offeres a 28% Military Discount but Euro Optic sometimes offers even more discount on some models such as this VX-5 2-10x at 31% off for $899.

Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm CDS-ZL2 FireDot Duplex Scope 171389 | SHIPS FREE! - EuroOptic

Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm CDS-ZL2 FireDot Duplex Scope 171389 | Only at EuroOptic.com!

www.eurooptic.com

I simply do not like the straight tube low power scopes.

When I had my BRNO 602 .375 completed I topped it with a VX5 2-10x42 fire dot; I think it’s the perfect scope.

 

[BeeMaa]

I understand the struggle of paying for top tier optics. But once you are on the other side of the price, you will never look back. Pun intended.

For my 375, I'm going in two directions. I have a Swaro Z8i 1-8x24 and I'm also mounting an AimPoint T2. Both will be in QD mount and interchangeable very quickly while maintaining zero.

Magnification to make out details like branches plus having the illuminated reticle to highlight POA on a dark animal in the shade is awesome with the scope. With up to 8x available, I'm capable of making hits on game out to 300 yards.

For reactive shooting, the long eye relief of a RDO gives better peripheral vision gives me a noticeable edge.

 

[Nevada Mike]

I have several of these scopes and have used one on m y 404 Jeff to shoot several buffalo. No issues. The No. 4 reticle is my favorite and hard to find in Leupold scopes.

 

[Ontario Hunter]

The bigger the bell on the scope the higher it must mount on the rifle. A low mounted scope will acquire quicker, especially if the gun is wearing a low profile European style stock. For buffalo you don't want to be hunting for crosshairs in an angry bull is incoming. 3-9 is plenty. I shot a ton of game with a 3x Weaver over 40 years. Longest shot was about 320 yards. Most were quite close which would be typical for dangerous game.

 

[Freetrade]

I recently upgraded my Dakota 375 with a Swarovski z6 1.7x10x42 illuminated. Pricey scope but wow what an upgrade. I bought a new Leupold 1x6 illuminated for my 416. Don’t have it mounted yet but I think it too will be much more effective!

 

[roverandbrew]

The bigger the bell on the scope the higher it must mount on the rifle. A low mounted scope will acquire quicker, especially if the gun is wearing a low profile European style stock. For buffalo you don't want to be hunting for crosshairs in an angry bull is incoming. 3-9 is plenty. I shot a ton of game with a 3x Weaver over 40 years. Longest shot was about 320 yards. Most were quite close which would be typical for dangerous game.

I find the “mount every optic as low as you can” interesting. I see it a lot on the site but feel it has a time and place. I spent most of my career raising my optic for a more heads up posture while shooting. I would in a loose way tie CQB or “Reflexive Fire” to Dangerous Game hunting.

A low scope height on precision rifles keeps the line of sight closer to the bore, which reduces sight offset and makes holds more intuitive at mixed distances like a plains game hunt. Lower optics also encourage a solid, repeatable cheek weld with a more traditional prone/bench stock geometry, which stabilizes sight picture and assists in recoil management for slow, precise fire.

A higher mount allows a more heads‑up, neutral spine posture, reducing neck flexion and supports fast‑paced work around cover or in unconventional positions where a low comb is impossible to maintain. I would say most gunfighters now have raised their optic 1.5-2” over previous height to support peripheral awareness and speed.

For a multi-purpose safari rifle like a 375 or 9.3 where plains game along with dangerous game will be engaged, does everyone still mount as low as they can or work a medium height? I can see as we get in the 500s recoil management will be an issue with poor cheek to stock weld.

If work slows in a bit, I might get with @SFRanger7GP and use a pro timer to work some stress shoots and provide feedback.