Elite 6500 questions Also looking for a varmint scope

[atblis]

Anybody got an Elite 6500 with the 50mm front obj?

I need the OD of the front objective.

While we're at it.

I am looking for a scope for a 223 Varmint rig that'll also be a paper puncher.

Would like
4-16 or maybe 6-20 for magnification
AO or SF
Fine duplex, or a fine cross hair for the reticle

Would prefer a 1" tube, but will go 30mm if I have to.

Need to keep it under $1k

Problem is, the scope is at the perfect height, and I don't want to go any bigger/higher. A Weaver V16 4-16x42A is a perfect fit.

So probably need
42mm AO or smaller
44mm SF or smaller

Right now, Leupold is the only company that makes what I want as far as I can tell.
http://www.swfa.com/pc-8588-307-leupold-65-20x40-vx-iii-30mm-riflescope.aspx

I'd like the Zeiss Conquest 4.5-14x44mm SF, but they don't appear to offer the reticle I want.

Am I missing anything?

Are Leupolds on par optically with the better scopes now?

 

[lipadj46]

The new Leupold VX-3 models are very good now probably on par with the Conquests as far as glass goes.

 

[atblis]

Well

If that's true, than most likely the VX3 is it.

 

[lipadj46]

The upgrade to the VX-3 line puts them up almost at VX-7 levels. It's nice to see Leupold giving some bang for the buck for once.