VX-2 2-7x28 Ultralight Alternatives?

[Legionnaire]

I really like the Leupold VX-2 2-7x28 Ultralight. I was lucky enough to buy a factory-refurbished one recently. The size (10 inch length) and magnification are just about perfect for a lightweight carbine-length hunting rifle. The 28mm objective allows for low mounting and the turret caps are low profile, unlike many that seem influenced by long-range optics. And I really like the gloss finish on a walnut and blued-steel gun.

Unfortunately, Leupold doesn't make them any more. Am I the only one who likes compact low magnification variables? Does someone else make a comparable model? Is there a good "scope selector" site that might help me identify one? I'd give up on the gloss finish if I could find something with good glass and the other design parameters.

 

[Hookeye]

A fairly recent 2-7X (28mm) rimfire could be sent back for parallax adjust.
$25 plus shipping.

I'd like a VX3 2.5-8X gloss (36mm). Read that gloss is going to be custom shop option now.
And with the new model changes, folks are asking silly prices for used discontinued stuff on certain auction site.

 

[Hookeye]

If scoping a Ruger #1 the newer 2-7X stuff will require at least 1 offset ring, maybe two.
Solution might be older longer tube model w smaller than 32mm obj.
Might need one offset ring at the back even then.
My VX1 2-7X and VX3 2.5-8X would not work without two offset rings.
Not at max power, and that when wearing a T shirt.
I went old M8 4x and still used an offset ring at the back.

 

[LoonWulf]

I have a 2-7x33 freedom and that's about as small a scope as I've come across recently, and it's still larger than the older "compacts" which don't seem to exist anymore.

Leupold custom shop could probably provide you with exactly what you want, but cost would obviously be higher than a shelf model.

As to draw for that particular style, I'd guess most folks arnt willing to pay the premium for a smaller scope over the standard 32-40 mm objectives and few extra ounces.
They also arnt cross over scopes, they are pretty much only going to be mounted on short-medium (realistic) range hunting rifles, and fewer and fewer of those are getting set up each year.
Heck I DO like low-low/mid power variables with smaller objectives, and I only own 1 now. Tho that's mostly the cost issue over a regular 3-9x40

 

[Skylerbone]

I found one new on the net (matte) but the price is over $400. Otherwise here’s the alternatives: https://www.scopelist.com/leupold-rimfire-ultralight-scopes.aspx

If you want the link to the 2-7 let me know and I’ll send it but at the price being asked...ugh! Ok, I just sent it anyway.

 

[Legionnaire]

Thanks, Skylerbone. I did use an offset ring to mount the one I have on my No. 1, and yes, at 7x it's a bit of a stretch. No problem at 4x, which is where I will typically keep it.

I just think that with all the hype about long range hunting and high magnification scopes, we've kind of lost the beauty of a lightweight rig for woods hunting. I had a Vari-X 2-7x33 Compact on my long-time go-to Model 7 in .308. But like an idiot, I sold the whole package. I don't miss the rifle (I've moved away from .308 completely) but I wish I had kept the scope.

 

[earlthegoat2]

My favorite Loopys are the VX-2 2-7x33 and the VX-3 1.5-5x20.

I just buy them off that auction site when Ivan get them for 120 or 200 respectively. Loopy lifetime warranty let’s me buy with confidence.

So far I have never had to use their customer service. Paying extra for a “reconditioned” Leupold is an interesting way to spend money.

 

[Axis II]

Leupold 2-7-33 sits atop my Marlin 1895 and i have no issues or regrets.

 

[Legionnaire]

I'd buy a VX-3 1.5-5x20 for $200 if I could find one!

 

[js8588]

https://www.swfa.com/swfa-ss-2-5-10x32-ultralight-rifle-scope.html

 

[Legionnaire]

Thanks. I have a couple SWFA tactical scopes. I was not aware of this model.

 

[Legionnaire]

Here's why I like a compact scope. This is a Vari-X II 2-7x28 Ultralight. Got it for $215 delivered.

 

[CopperFouling]

Unfortunately, Leupold doesn't make them any more. Am I the only one who likes compact low magnification variables?

You're not the only one, but you're a dying breed. The trend is toward "tactical" scopes with more magnification than most people actually need. I'm perfectly satisfied with a 3-9 or maybe even a 4-14 if I am feeling crazy.