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Leupold VX-3 vs. Vari-x III: Better?

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Poll Question: Can you notice a difference optically with the new vx-3 vs. old vx III
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SAKO75 View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote SAKO75 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Leupold VX-3 vs. Vari-x III: Better?
    Posted: October/30/2005 at 08:35
DOes anyone see a significant improvement in optics with the vx-3 over the vari x III? or is it all marketing hype?
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Dale Clifford View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Dale Clifford Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: October/30/2005 at 19:46
When you say an improvement in the optics, what parameter? Clarity, resolution, brightness? After calibrating the side focus with a laser range finder and marking them with colored indelible ink, the new Leos are very consistent with the focus and reading against the range finder. An older Leo 3 (both in 6.5X20) has an extremely fast in and out of focus at the indicated range but is off on readings about 25 yds (if one could call the veniers on the ring accurate-which is stretch of the imagination at any rate). I find the older leos to be what I would call "sharper" or perhaps "cleaner" and I find the new Leos to produce less eye strain with a "warmer" tinge and are definitely easier to get a good shot when shooting into the early morning sun. There is a difference, whether one is better or not probably depends on the shooter preference. There is a difference in the click settings- the older Leo is more postitive and gives better returns to zero. (3 shots-12 clicks up 3 shots 12 clicks right-3 shots 12 clicks down-3 then 3 with the last 3 must be in the same holes- with a rifle and load combination known to be capable of this). At any rate I have a 6.5X20 Nikon that performs this test better than either.
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Chris Farris View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Chris Farris Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: October/31/2005 at 12:18

Just for the record here is Leupold's spill about the new VX-III scopes.

 

The Leupold VX-III scopes
In 2004, Leupold introduces the VX-III line of Golden Ring Riflescopes. The VX-III carries many of the great classic features of the tried and true Vari-X III line but with several exciting new features. Based on the superior optical design of the Vari-X III, the VX-III delivers even more light transmission with The New Index Matched Lens System. No longer are tools required for making windage and elevation adjustments as we introduce the new, highly precise Finger Adjustable Elevation and Windage. Reticle focus will be faster and easier now with The Lockable Fast Focus Eyepiece. More Long Range models are now available. The VX-III 1.5-5x20mm and 1.75-6x32mm are top choices in dangerous game and quick pointing optics with wide field of view and now an even brighter image for dark, shadowed woods. The VX-III 2.5-8x36mm, 3.5-10x40mm and the 4.5-14x40mm fixed objective all meet the needs of the serious hunter who needs an excellent combination of low power, wide field of view and higher magnification for longer range shots, all in a package that fits well in a scabbard. The VX-III 3.5-10x50mm fixed objective provides the best low light performance while the VX-III 4.5-14x50mm Long Range gives both great low light performance for deep timber and is equipped for long range shooting of open country with side focus and generous adjustment travel. The VX-III 4.5-14x40mm Long Range, 6.5-20x50mm Long Range (also available in a Target model) and the 8.5-25x50mm Long Range Target meet the needs of shooters that demand maximum capabilities for placing shots accurately in a wide range of conditions. In addition to the full array of Leupold reticles, the VX-III riflescope family now also features the new Leupold Wide Duplex reticle (available in Spring 2004) in addition to the New Ballistic Reticle System: The Boone and Crockett Club Reticle for big game and the Varmint Hunters™ Reticle. The Leupold Index Matched Lens System provides the best light management across the entire image, maximizing contrast and image brightness, delivering as high as 98% light transmission. New Finger Adjustable Windage and Elevation Dials make sighting in easy and zero can be reset by moving the golden pointer ring. Except for the diopter directional markings, The Lockable Fast Focus Eyepiece still carries the Leupold Classic look but focuses 4 times faster than did the Vari-X III, then can be locked in place when best focus is achieved. The Long Range configuration of Side Focus for parallax correction and 30mm maintube for added elevation adjustment travel has been carried through to all models of 4.5-14 power range and higher to provide easy to operate parallax correction and expanded capability to achieve longer range shots. Leupold's™ new VX-III riflescopes are manufactured at the Leupold Beaverton, Oregon factory and are backed by the Leupold Full Lifetime Guarantee.

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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote SAKO75 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: October/31/2005 at 19:53
come on chris, spare me the marketing hype. you see all the scopes. what do you think?
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Chris Farris Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: November/01/2005 at 15:40

Just posting it for people reading that do not know what the differences are in the old Vari X-III and the new VX-III.

 

The new index matched lens system uses specific coatings for specific lenses and yes this does increase the light transmission.  A light meter can see the difference but in order for you to see the difference you really have to look close and use resolution charts.  The average Joe that picks up a VX-III and a Vari X-III to haul to his deer stand and shoot three times a year won't see any difference.  Avid hunters and shooters that really use their stuff will see a difference in the optics and appreciate the new features.

 

The finger adjustable windage and elevation is a big improvement that was long over due and does make a difference.

 

The lockable fast focus eye piece is also a much better design than what they had.

 

The new reticles, side focus and new scopes are also part of what makes the VX-III better than the Vari X-III too.

 

Basically Leupold is just catching up to what the competition is doing.  Elite 4200s, Grand Slams, Monarchs and Conquest woke up the sleeping giant.  I think Leupold will continue to improve their existing lines while launching new and exciting products.......just hope they don't further price themselves out of the market.

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