Leo VX11 vs VX111

[45-70]

I'm a new member(1st posting), having visited often in the past and learned alot from Huntchat. I just bought a VX11 2-7x33 for my 45-70 Guide Gun. This was my 1st Leo, based mainly on advice from the Optics Forum!. You guys were all correct about the optics on the Leo, its amazing.

I need some advice on a Leo VX11 or VX111 3-9x40 for my Ruger MK1 7mmMag. It is an accurate favorite of mine with an old Weaver scope on it that I want to upgrade.

So, 1st question: is there an appreciable clarity/light gathering difference between the 33 bell on the VX11 and the 36 or 40 bell in a VX111.
2nd question: is the 56% price differential of $300(VX11) vs $470(VX111) is worth it?

Thanks in advance.
"An Ole Miss Rebel lost in NH"

[Dan in the Delta]

From one Ole Miss Rebel to another, I'd have to say the VX-II 3-9x40 is a much better buy than the VX-III version. I've got a VX-II 3-9x40 on my pre-'64 Model 70 .30-06 and really like it. I just don't think you get much if anything more with the VX-III.

Now if you want a scope that's better than both and comparable to the VX-III in price, then take a look at the Zeiss Conquest. I've got a few of these and in my opinion they're a better scope than the VX-III, a scope I've owned and have experience with also. I think the Zeiss Conquest 3-9x40 is about as good as it gets in the mid-level price range. I've had one mounted on a .300 Weatherby Sako for about 5 years and it has endured a lot of rough handling and upwards of 900 rounds of ammo and hasn't given me one bit of trouble. I'm continually impressed by its sharp optical performance. I've got another 3-9x40 Conquest mounted on a 7mm Rem Mag Sako and it too is an excellent, excellent scope.

Hope this was of some assistance.

[Catfish]

I don`t think Leupold makes a 3 x 9 VX-lll. When you go to to the VX-lll it`s a 3.5 to 10. There is a differance but wether or not it1s worth the extra money only you can make that desion. I`ve got just over 30 Leupold scopes, bought my first one in 1968 and have collected them ever since. I buy them at gun shows used now as I have 9 of them in boxes waiting for a gun to go on. You won`t go wrong with any Leupold and for a hunting rifle a 3 x 9 or a 3.5 x 10 is an excellant choice. If getting a VX-ll will strap you for cash get the VX-ll, if not get the lll.

[45-70]

Thanks guys, I'm going for the VXIII. I've convinced myself that my Ruger deserves the better glass. BTW my VXII/Marlin 45-70 groups at 2 bullet diameters at 75yds from a bench rest. Not too shabby for commercial ammo and a 18" barrel. Allows a head shot as far as I would normally try to throw a brick as big as the 45-70 round. NH deer will fear me now!(if I actually see one this year)

"An Ole Miss Rebel lost in NH"