Leupold Vx-2 vs Vx-3 glass

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Vern Kowalski

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I have several variants ofLeupolds Vx-3 line of scopes, I really liked the glass for the price when I bought my first one and just continued to accumulate more from that line when I would need another scope for whatever reason, however I have never really compared the glass quality to a Vx-2. I realize everyone's eyes are different but was just wondering what different people's opinions are in the difference in the glass quality between these 2. Is the Vx-3 that much better than the Vx-2? Thanks for your input.
 
The difference in light transmission is 94 versus 98% per lens surface and is more scratch resistance. Whats that worth to you?

The adjustments are decidedly more positive since the change to the Mark 4 style erector springs. That's worth it to me all by itself, but to the set it and hopefully forget it crowd maybe not so much.
much.

Extra durability? One piece tubes? Better glass? Reticle options? They're there, but what value do you place on them?

For myself I've got a comparatively few 11-2 series and dozens of three series. I don't really remember picking up one of my rifles years later and saying thank god I saved a couple bucks on the scope.
 
I have a VX 2 3x9 and a VX3i 4.5 x 14. I tested them side by side, 15 minutes before sun set to 15 minutes after sun set. I could tell no difference, both were set on 6 power.
 
Thanks for everyone's input, Dogleg.....It's not that I'm looking to save a couple bucks on a scope, sometimes a Vx-2 shows up on the EE at a pretty reasonable price and I find myself wondering how the glass compares to my Vx-3's and If I shouldn't be picking one up.
 
Vern Kowalski said:
Thanks for everyone's input, Dogleg.....It's not that I'm looking to save a couple bucks on a scope, sometimes a Vx-2 shows up on the EE at a pretty reasonable price and I find myself wondering how the glass compares to my Vx-3's and If I shouldn't be picking one up.
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I guess what I'm saying is that the biggest differences aren't in the glass.
 
I think you can skip the vx2 and go stright to vx3. Yes they are more $$$ but with 30mm tube and larger magnification you may give vx3 a try. But once again, I do not know what the new vx3i s are all about as they are cheaper.
 
So if one isn’t into CDS or fancy reticles, the VX1 sounds like a hell of a bargain?

I have been interested to read what people thought of these as the 2-7x33 VX 1
Looks like a good option for an ultralight build?
 
Diamond coat 2 is rated for 500 rubs without degradation. The rubs are done with steel-wool. Just one of those little differences that don't make a difference to those who can't tell the difference. :)
 
Dogleg said:
The difference in light transmission is 94 versus 98% per lens surface and is more scratch resistance. Whats that worth to you?

The adjustments are decidedly more positive since the change to the Mark 4 style erector springs. That's worth it to me all by itself, but to the set it and hopefully forget it crowd maybe not so much.
much.

Extra durability? One piece tubes? Better glass? Reticle options? They're there, but what value do you place on them?

For myself I've got a comparatively few 11-2 series and dozens of three series. I don't really remember picking up one of my rifles years later and saying thank god I saved a couple bucks on the scope.
Click to expand...


The suggested difference in light transmission is an average to be expected over the average of the VX2. This will differ in the same model scope, between individual units. Most people honestly can't tell the difference without looking at the nomenclature on the scope.

I definitely agree that the spring upgrade in the later VX3 scopes is a big step that I also really appreciate. I believe that the springs in the other model scopes, including the VX1 can be upgraded to the VX4 level as well by sending them to the repair facility in OKOTOKS Alberta. I believe there might be a charge for this but I don't know. They're pretty good people there.

I like Leupold scopes. When I finally was able to afford better glass over the Tasco and Weavers there was almost an epiphany for me and ever since, other than a few purchases or gifts I haven't tried lesser quality scopes. I will admit, some of the cheap scopes are pretty good but they all seem to have issues of one sort or another. Still, many of them are very capable and light years ahead of my first scopes from 50 years ago.

Far to many people just go to a store and say I want one of those. Big mistake. Just like firearms they are made to a plus or minus standard. If the store will allow it, take the scope where you can check things like sharpness and clarity at different distances. Especially right out to the very edges of the lenses. Some very expensive scopes will only have about 75% of the exit pupil usable. It will vary within the same model of the same brand, so be careful. If the store won't allow you to check out the images at different ranges, even if the clerk accompanies you to the parking lot, don't just purchase it anyway. There are other sources that will and the hunt is well worth the effort.
 
Most people won't be able to tell the difference between 94% and 98% light transmission because in most light conditions that is more light than your eyes need and the eyes will compensate by adjusting the pupil size. So you won't see any difference except in some specific low-light conditions.

The best way to test scopes is to do a comparison side by side over a distance of at least 200-400 yards, in multiple light conditions. You can't really tell anything by comparing scopes inside a store and looking at the wall in good light. Everything is OK in good light.

The VX3 is a better scope but that doesn't mean it will necessarily do a better job in all conditions - but it will be better in some. Your decision if you need it or not.
 
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