couple of questions

[icon308win]

first off i was thinking of getting a VX3 2.5-8x36 I can also get a 3-9x40 conquest for same price which would be best? Also I have a Tipton carbon fiber cleaning rod 22 to 26 cal will it be ok to clean a 30 caliber with

 

[bpl]

Well, both have excellent glass and are great choices. I prefer the VX-3 as it is much smaller and lighter, has good eye relief and accepts the alumina scope covers. If you have handled them both you will note that the conquest is much larger and heavier. I like a lighter trimmer scope on my hunting rifles. If you have a larger heavier rifle which you don't intend to carry much, then the conquest would be a great choice as well.

With regard to the cleaning rod, personally I would buy the correct size Tipton rod. I'm sure the rod you have will clean a 30cal, but it will bend in the barrel and could cause uneven wear over time.

 

[BluegrassDan]

I have a VX3 2.5-8x36 with the Alumina flip covers on my Kimber 84M. Wouldn't trade it for anything on that particular rifle.

I agree that the proper .30 cal rod is more desireable. It will not flex as much, but I doubt it will cause uneven wear versus the smaller diameter rod.

 

[icon308win]

hi Dan can I ask how it works in low light

 

[matrem]

If size or weight is important, go with the leupold.
If optical clarity is the most important, take your pick.
If low light shooting is important, go with the bigger objective on the conquest.

I routinely use a .22 tipton carbon fiber rod to clean .284s & .308s with no ill effect.
Just make sure to use a proper bore guide.

 

[ms6852]

If you are still undecided you might want to consider which gives you more internal elevation, in case you want to shoot longer distances than you are accustomed to. I would than choose that scope.