Nikon or Redfield?

[mastiffhound]

I hope this is in the right place, if not then I'm sure it will be moved. I've been looking for a new 3-9x40-42 or a 2-8x32 scope and I'm stuck. I have a Redfield 3-9x42 Battlezone and I just haven't felt the need to replace it. So far it has been flawless through 300 rounds of .308 Win. Problem is I need another scope for my Mini-14 or AR for coyotes and other critters of smaller size. I'm not sure why but I would like to try another brand. I went with Redfield because of Leupold's great customer service and warranty. I have a Leupold 1-4x20 Hog Scope that I love also. I own a Vortex but I haven't been as impressed as with it, the Redfield (similar price point, competitor) or the Leupold both seem to have clearer glass.

My problem comes in at the target acquisition speed. The Nikon BDC reticle seems like a great idea if you have a laser rangefinder (which I do). I'm not up to date on Nikon's warranty and customer service practices. How are they to deal with? Actual experience would be greatly appreciated, as I would like to pick up a new scope in the next week or so. I would like to keep it between $200 and $350 if you have another suggestion. As always, thank you all for your help!

 

[BigBore44]

I have Leupold VXII, Nikon BDC, Simmons ATEC, and BSA scopes. As far as all around, that's exactly how I would list them as far as quality. As for price, you can't go wrong with Nikon. I have extras just laying around for when/if I get another rifle that needs one.

I hade my Leupold break on my M1A. Contacted Leupold, mailed it, 2 weeks later I had a new scope. No questions asked. I have never had a problem with my Nikons so I can't speak to their CS.

 

[SunnySlopes]

I hade my Leupold break on my M1A

Waddya mean it broke? How did it break?

 

[Nomad]

I have had all of the above. These day I gravitate towards Bushnell or Leupold.

 

[2ndtimer]

http://www.natchezss.com/brand.cfm?...2mm Rifle Scope Gloss Finish TrexPlex Reticle
Nitrex TR1 from Natchez Shooters Supply. Great scope for $100 or so. I bet it is optically at least the equal of any Redfield or Nikon scope at twice the price.

 

[HexHead]

For around $350 you can get a Leupold VX-2 3-9x40 with the CDS turret. Send them the ballistic info of the load you shoot, and get a custom turret engraved in yards. Need a 300 yard shot? Just turn the turret to "3".

When I considered a Nikon with their BDC reticle, I found all those dots and circles anything but quick.

 

[rodregier]

I have it on good authority that the Nikon Monarch family is very nice.

I'm happy with my example. (4-16x42 SF).

 

[sappyg]

I'm late on this but I just received a new ProStaff 4x32 Rimfire scope and its impressive. The glass is very clean/ clear and is covered by a full lifetime warranty. That covers the life of the scope (whatever that is). Not the original purchaser (whatever that is).
I have 2 pre Leupold Redfields and I just can't put much faith in the brand though I know current production is much improved.

 

[fragout]

The Leupold hog scope and Redfield Battlezone both have great reticles as far as acquisition and speed are concerned. (Especially since you utilize a LRF.)

Would the Nikon somehow be an improvement over the other 2?

 

[Sav .250]

All things being equal, the over all look will get your attention. Both are good scopes.

 

[IWAC]

General guidelines for rifle scopes:

$$$$$

$$$$

$$$

$$ -

$ :banghead:-

 

[JRWhit]

Last time I bought a scope I went with the intention of getting a Redfield or Leopold. I ended up walking out with a Nikon. After comparing the displays I went with the Nikon. I couldn't find good reason for the dollar difference and felt like I was leaving with more scope in the Nikon for a better price. Haven't dealt with CS as I've had zero problem. Mounted it on a 300 wby mag.

 

[mastiffhound]

I picked up a Primary Arms 1-6x24 ACSS reticle after trying a friend's out. So far I like it a lot. Minimal so-so problems like slight halo effect when illumination is turned to 6. Critical eye relief at 6 also. Other than that it is great. Very clear glass and the reticle works very well. I wrote a short review on PA's site in the customer review section and gave it 5 stars. The price ($250), reticle, clear glass, and quality outweigh the miniscule problems.

I'm more than likely going to get the 4X ACSS compact scope or another Leupold Hog scope. The 4X will have to be lighter than 16 ounces though, otherwise it will be the Leupold. As always, thanks for the help guys!