Pentax scope question

[redneck2]

Anybody here have actual field and/or hunting experience with Pentax scopes??

We have lots of financially challenged members who are looking for the ultimate scope for as close to zero bucks as possible. I found a source on e-bay that has some scopes that look decent for cheap. Now, my scopes are B&L, Burris, and Leupold. I go for quality before price (within reason).

That said, I know Nikons have a good reputation and since Pentax is another Japanese camera company and the camera companies have a reputation for high quality lenses, how are Pentax scopes???

I'm getting a Bushie Varminter in a few weeks. It will be a fair weather gun so I won't have to worry about fogging, and recoil is non-existant so I won't be battering it apart. Wondering if the Pentax would fill the bill???

 

[greg531mi]

Get a Zeiss Conquest, one of the best values in scopes out there....Knocks off all Oriental scopes!!!

 

[Cindog]

I happen to think that Pentax makes some very good scopes. Anything in the Lightseeker line would work fine for what you described.

 

[Snorkel Bob]

Does anyone know if Pentax scopes are mdae by Burris? Or other way around. They look very similar

 

[esldude]

Pentax scopes are made in the USA by Burris, though in a seperate factory. Some rumors the Pentax have better glass. But they do supposedly have better coatings. Something like 11 or 13 layer coatings.

The 3-9x 43mm Lightseeker is one of the finest scopes I have seen. On the other hand, Lightseeker 3-9x 50mm scopes appear to be simply Fullfields with new names. And while bright, they aren't so clear. I wish I could say go Lightseeker and don't worry. But not sure which Lightseekers are top notch and which aren't.

BTW, have seen two of the good and two of the bad Lightseekers. Each seemed identical to it's partner in the respective sizes.

 

[Swamp Yankee]

Direct from the rumor mill of a major online optics dealer.

Pentax purchases the tube and all mechanicals from Burris. They grind coat and fit their own lenses. Supposedly the Pentax optics are a hair brighter than Burris'. Never having looked through a Pentax I can't say one way or the other. (Not that my eyes are that trained either)

You didn't give a power range, but based upon your application I would guess your looking for something up there. That said check Bear Basin's website
www.clearanceoptics.com
They are selling show demo 6.5-20X44 Nikon Monarchs for $379. I currently own 2 of these one on a Remmy .223 VLS the other on an AR10. I paid the $459 new price and feel I definately got my money's worth.
Good luck, and let us know how you make out.

Take Care