Tim and guys,
First and foremost, I do not work for Leupold and gain nothing but the peace of mind in knowing I am helping my fellow handi-haulic in recommending a Leupold scope. I know I am somewhat of a broken record when it comes to singing the praises of the Leupold. I also know that the cost factor is prohibitive when some people initially look at a Leupold. BUT, I have said it many times, just BUY THEM USED!! The VXI, VXII as well as VARI XII are available for the less than $200. That the same or less than your looking at for a new <insert favorite brand here> scope. No exaggeration, I must have 20 Leupold's. Out of those, I have 8 2X7X33 VXII/ VARI XII's. I can honestly tell you that only 2 or 3 where purchased new!!! Ore than a few purchased right here on GBO. Sometimes I return them to the factory straight away for a CK up, other times I have the reticule or parallax changed. There customer service is beyond top notch! They have even returned scopes to me BEFORE I PAID for the service!! Yup, returned it with a bill for services rendered!! This is all but unheard of today outside of face to face transactions between known patrons.
Now I know there is other good scopes out there, but honestly, the more of them I buy, the more I appreciate Leupold. (I have taken your advice on a couple different models and they have been fine)
I am sure that a 1 or 2 hundred dollar scope will suit the majority of guys buying a handi. All I am trying to get across is there is FAR more to a product than its initial cost. If someone can get a much better quality scope used, then send it right back to the factory for a simple check-up and still pay under the 200. That’s the same they would have spent on a lesser quality new scope. I think that they are better off. Can another manufacturer make a scope that is equal to or better then Leupold, sure they can. But if a comparison is to be made, lets be sure the bigger picture is in focus. Service after the sale, quality of the product as well as costs involved make up the whole equation.
I know many members here may not be able to afford a new Leupold. Just as you mention, Leupold knows this too. There recent acquisition of the REDFIELD name proves this. Now time will tell how the quality or lack there of, of this new scope line pans out. On face value, it should fit this lower cost scope nitch. Because the first thought many people have when they read the word Leupold is $$$. Yes they are expensive, at least when purchased new. Many handicap themselves with this and look no further. Money is hard earned and needs to go farther these days. Now, I am not independently wealthy, I don’t have a 6 figure salary and just like most of us, my $$ need to go further these days. Also just like you, I am just trying to pass along worthwhile information. In an effort to help someone needing to get the most for his money. I'll put my money on something that has a proven track record, I’ll buy Leupold.
I don’t want this to have a negative tone. This is not an argument, more of a friendly retort. I have the utmost respect for you and your opinions. I sometimes just feel our true intent is lost in the text we rite.
CW
