Leupold 50mm vs. Vortex PST 50mm

[GetmeoutaCT]

Hello all -

In response to a prior question, a kind fellow member pointed me to the Leupold Mark 4 #113092 - 8.5-25x 50mm illuminated recticle scope; about $1600 on the usual websites.

He also mentioned the Vortex PST 6-24Xx 50 mm illuminated recticle. This scope intrigues me - it transmits 95% of available light, and otherwise looks identical to the Leupold, but for the name on it. I've also read a lot of good things here about Vortex scopes. About $900 on the same websites.

the only big difference I can see is that the Vortex PST is (apparently) that these are FFP only.

Here's my new question, addressed particularly to those who have used/looked through both brands. Is the Leopold worth $700 more, understanding this purchase will probably outlast me?

 

[TTundra]

Getme,

Not all are FFP. This model, PST-624S1-M, is a SFP of that same scope. Vortex is an amazing company that takes care of its customers. Had the opportunity in a past career to go on a hunt with on of their managers. Great equipment and even better people.

http://www.vortexoptics.com/product...50-riflescope-with-ebr-1-mrad-reticle/reticle


I've used both, and it would be a toss up. I like the lower minimum magnification when possible, and the $700 less is very nice. You would need both side by side to even notice the optical differences. I would tip my hat that the Mark 4 does have the 'better' glass. Just a personal feeling, I never tried them side by side on the same day and conditions though.

 

[GetmeoutaCT]

TTundra -

Thanks very much. One additional question. The Vortex link you provided lists the recticle on this scope as glass-etched; Midway USA lists it as wire. I assume the Midway website has a typo. I'd prefer a glass-etched recticle.

 

[TTundra]

reticle

Yea, there's a lot of info transfer back and forth when listing new items on internet retailer sites, typos happen. Its definitely a glass etched reticle.

 

[GetmeoutaCT]

Thanks again. I may be buying my new scope sooner than I thought!

 

[TTundra]

Sometimes its so tough, lots of fun things to buy, especially when tax returns are so close...

 

[GetmeoutaCT]

The sensible thing to do would be to buy the Vortex (actually the sensible thing to do would be to buy a QD mount for my existing scope and use my current Leupold for the rifle I happen to be shooting that day, but that's no fun).

Given the fact that this is for paper targets at fixed distances (at probably no more than 500 yards max), during the day, the Vortex is more than good enough, and $850 less than the Leupold. So how much is that "L" on the turrets worth? Not $850, certainly.

 

[Ks5shooter]

I own many Leupold scopes,in fact it is all I own,never needed customer service unless I needed advice on next purchase.For me that is what customer service is to be used for. I stay with what has worked for me for 30 years.Also made in the USA Just MHO.