First off I'd like to say that I believe that you get what you pay for and that I can appreciate spending a couple hundred dollars more for a quality scope. I myself own a Minox ZA5, Gen 3 PVS14, Vanguard Spotting scopes, Aimpoints etc... I am willing to spend money for quality/rugged optics. I have looked through different scopes and in general the 700-1000 dollar scopes did not impress me any more than most of the 400-600 dollar scopes. In fairness some of those 1000 dollar scopes were more rugged and more shock resistant.
But I have never looked through a Nightforce, Kahles, Swarovski, Steiner, etc.. I was looking through gunbroker and several of these brands have scopes that enter that 2-3k price range and even beyond that.
Those of you who own or have experience with these brands.. do you feel they are worth the price? Or do you feel that the optical quality can be matched by less expensive scopes? Do you feel the build quality or ruggedness far exceeds that of less expensive optics.
I know these questions depend on your use and background as a sniper on the SWAT team will probably feel differently than an occasional shooter. I base my purchases on the simple question: Are these products currently used in harsh environments or do I feel that they could endure harsh environmental conditions.
I'd like to hear your opinions and experiences.