Leupols 2.5-8 LER

[Varmint Hunter]

I  was thinking of putting a Leupold 2.5-8X LER scope on my SRH 454. It's either this or I'll stick with my ol' standby Leo 2X.
OPINIONS please.
VH

[Zeus]

I personally prefer fixed powers on my revolvers.  I have a FA 454 with a 4x Leupold and a 44 with a 2x.  Both work great.  I had a 2x on the FA last year and killed a deer at 110 yards.  This is about my limit for the revolver so I feel that the 2x is adequate and the 4x is just about perfect.  I used to use a variable on my revolvers but I have grown to like fixed powers better.  Less stuff to fiddle with when they are needed.  Relief is always the same and therefore my hold is always the same.  Simple is better to me.  But, I do think that the Leupold 2-8 is a fine scope.  If a variable is what you are looking for, then you probably will not find many any better made for a handgun.  One thing you may want to think about is the weight of that scope.  The heavier scopes can tend to slip easier on the heavy kickers like the 454 due to inertia.  The recoil of the 454 is sharp and quick and the SRH only comes standard with 2 rings.  If you go the variable route, you may want to check into a different base system that could utilize 3 rings.  Just a thought.

[Del]

I agree with Zeus, pretty much the whole way on this one.
I have a 2X Leupold mounted w/a SSK T'SOB mount & 3 rings, on my FA 454.  This set up has worked well for me on wild boar, deer, & moose - from 25 to 110 yards!  In my opinion, most variables are to big to put on a revolver (looks, weight, & bulk).  I like the size and weight of a good 2X, or maybe 4X, depending on what and where you'll be hunting.  And the recoil from the .454 has ruined a lot of scopes, so keep it simple and tough.  Don't get me wrong, I really like the 2.5X8 Leupold (I have one on a Contender barrel), I just wouldn't put one on a .454!

Hope this helps, have a good day!
Del

[Varmint Hunter]

One other thing:

According to Leupold's web site, the eye relief for the 2.5X8 LER is 18". Doesn't the eye relief vary with the magnification, and shouldn't it be a wide range like 10"-20" or something similar?

VH

[Roller]

I have one on my FA 454 and I think it is the perfect scope for a hunting handgun.  I have mine mounted on a Leupold two ring mount and it has never slipped.  I like the higher magnification for target work, then turn it down to lower settings for hunting.  To me, there is no better handgun scope.

[kciH]

I like the 2.5-8, I've had one for quite awhile.  The scope would not hold up to the recoil of a XP-100 in .284 Winchester, however.  At least not with a two ring set up.  The Leupold 4x that I use now, on that pistol, has had no problems in this area.