Author Topic: Leupold Scope on Encore (Read 992 times)

Robanov · « **on:** October 02, 2003, 11:04:07 AM »

Looking for opinions on a scope for my 7mm-08 Encore rifle. I’d like to scope it with a Leupold VXI but I’m having a hard time deciding between the 2-7x33 and the 3-9x40. Which scope best compliments this rifle considering size, weight, magnification and low light performance. It will be used to hunt deer in variable prairie terrain. I realize both scopes will work but I’m interested in which one you would choose and why (assuming, of course, that you would also choose a Leupold). :lol:

BTW, I expect the Vari-XIII 2.5-8x36 would be a good compromise but it's not in the price range I'm considering.

longwinters · « **Reply #1 on:** October 02, 2003, 11:29:42 AM »

Well I have to confess to not having any leup scopes but I do have an Encore rifle in 7M-08. It wears a Nikon Monarch 3x9x40. Personally I would not want a lower power scope on any rifle nor a smaller diameter. I doubt that you would ever go down to 2 power and have no doubt that at least for sighting in you will use 9 power. The bigger bell will allow more light to get in as well as give you more field of view. I know others on this site prefer the lower magnification, but especially out in the wide open I think more is better. Also the balance etc... of my rifle with this scope is great and the couple of ounces more weight is meaningless..

long

Bullseye · « **Reply #2 on:** October 02, 2003, 05:50:35 PM »

Depends on what you want to gun to be like, ignoring magnification that is. I had a 3-9x40 Vari X II on my 209x50 up to this year. Never liked it because that scope was big and made the gun heavy. Took it off and put it on my 25-06 barrel. Still looks out of proportion to me on the gun, but the weight of the gun seems better with that barrel.

I have the 2-7x33 VXI on a 22lr, 45-70. I think the smaller scope looks better and makes the guns handle better. I am sure that I would like it on the 209x50. I have an extra 2-7x33 VXI that I have had trouble resisting putting on the 209x50, I know it I would like it on that gun. However, I have been shooting with open sights and getting good groups and the gun handles better and is much easier to clean.

So I like the smaller 2-7x33, unless you want more magnification that is. I have determined that for my needs a 7x scope is all I need, but your needs might be different.

SingleShotShorty · « **Reply #3 on:** October 03, 2003, 08:01:55 AM »

I would select the power range you like the best simply because there is not enough difference between the two scope you mentioned to worry about. Either one will serve you fine. I rarely ever use more than the lowest power on a scope when hunting. :-D

hyltoto · « **Reply #4 on:** October 03, 2003, 02:05:32 PM »

What you need to consider is twilight factor. The ideal is 7mm. You calculate this by dividing the objective size in mm by the magnification you are using in low light. A factor of 7 is the optimum for optics as it is slightly bigger than your eye can dialate. So with a 4x scope, you only need a 28 mm objective. The issues you should consider target aquisition, and the type of game you will persue. The lower the power, the faster you can get on target. The kill zone for a deer is about the size of a record album. If you are varmit hunting you may need more magnification. I know the old retort, " I need high magnification for scouting". This is why binoculars were made (please,for safety's sake"). So you must balance the factors of twilight factor, aesthetics, economy, and target size, and ergonomics. Personally I have had my greatest success with a rugged 4x scope and mounts, and a good set of Steiner binocs.

Tdot · « **Reply #5 on:** October 05, 2003, 03:03:29 PM »

I have a VXII 2X7X33 on my Bullberry .223 , and a VXII 3X9X40 on my TC..22-250. ( Coyote rifles ) Both are super clear and sharp. I usually am set at 3 or 4 when hunting. I also have a VXI 2X7X33 on my 10/22 and I think it is as sharp and clear as the VX2's in a hunting situation. The big difference is the Gloss finish in my opinion. AND THE PRICE!!
You can't go wrong with either choice.
Jerry

Robanov · « **Reply #6 on:** October 09, 2003, 04:47:56 PM »

First of all, thank you all for your replies. I ended up with a VX-II 3-9x40. Considering size and weight, I think this size scope works just fine. I have to agree with longwinters that the extra magnification will come in handy when sighting in. The 40mm objective should also come in handy at dusk and dawn. I put it all together with Warne Maxima rings and base and I must say I'm very happy with the results so far. Now we'll see how she shoots. :grin: