Rifle Scopes Leupold or Nightforce?

[rasman35]

Im in the market for a new scope and was wondering if anybody is using Leupolds Mark 4 4.5-14x50 ER/T M5 FFP, if so what kind of feedback can you give. The other scope im interested in is Nightforces NXS 3.5-15x50 F1 with high speed turrets, zero stop and mil adjustments. I really want the Nightforce but if its worth the $500 I might do the Mark 4.

 

[sititunga]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

NF no question, they are worth the extra money.

 

[ORD]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

While I realize the extra money for the NF can be a hard pill to swallow...there really is no comparison IMO. I would absolutely spend the extra money on the NF F1 and not think twice about it!

BUY ONCE...CRY ONCE!!

 

[CSTactical]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

For the price, Nightforce's are an excellent way to go. If you're going to buy a Nightforce F1, I would suggest waiting until after SHOT Show to see what Nightforce is coming out with.

If you're looking to buy right now, the new Leupold M5 series is the best value on the market for FFP right now <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="text-decoration: underline">in my opinion</span></span>.

Thanks,

Mike @ CST

 

[BCP]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Something wrong with used optics? Lots of used stuff in the optics section right now that's decent, one guy with a 3-17 USO for 1700, one guy with a razor HD for 1700something, etc etc. And then there's the IOR 3-18x50 that is 1700? with rings new.

 

[Slapchop]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I'm going to be in the market for a scope here pretty soon. Going on GAP built AR-10T Given all the praise and accolades that NF gets around here its probably going to be a NF.

Now the hard part, figuring out which one.

 

[Mike]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I would run irons before a Leupold.

 

[KNIGHT11B4]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Mike</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would run irons before a Leupold. </div></div>

+1 and only if I were blind.

 

[head2h2o]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Just picked up an F1. It is a very nice scope. NF would get my vote.

 

[KillShot]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Nightforce, no question about it.

 

[Strangedays]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: KillShot</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nightforce, no question about it. </div></div>
1+++^^^^^^^^^^ I can't understand why someone would even ask such a question. Nightforce is so far above Leupold that it is not even a question of which scope is better. I have looked through BSA scopes with better glass than leupold and I think they were built in the same factory.

 

[bugshooter]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Just bought a NF 3.5-15x50 from Jay at Sport Optics. He was very helpful and I highly recommend.

I've always had Leupold VXIII for hunting and been happy, but on the other hand I haven't tasted the NF honey until tomorrow when it shows up.

 

[PittsDriver]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I have 15 year old 4x14 VXIII Leupold on my hunting rifle. Good scope. My last three scope purchases however have been Nightforce. No regrets for the extra money spent.

RT

 

[dieselgeek]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: strangedays</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: KillShot</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nightforce, no question about it. </div></div>
1+++^^^^^^^^^^ I can't understand why someone would even ask such a question. Nightforce is so far above Leupold that it is not even a question of which scope is better. I have looked through BSA scopes with better glass than leupold and I think they were built in the same factory.</div></div>


Geeze I need to go get my boots on before I read any more BS on this forum.

 

[sr15match]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I've been rolling this around for a little while. I've had leupold Mk4's in the past with zero issues and had a USO. That was an eye opener but the price point difference was quite substantial. I haven't gone NF yet but it's on my short list right now.

I have a basic budget and can pick up a new Mk4 6.5-20x50 M1 for under $1100. A 3-15x50 Nightforce NSX (not F1) from one of the vendors here on the Hide for about $400 more (give or take) or a new USO 3.2-17x44 (to my specs) for about $2400 w/discount.

It's a wide price range and I also need to decide soon.

Good luck, I know I need it.

 

[R_A_W]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dieselgeek</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Geeze I need to go get my boots on before I read any more BS on this forum. </div></div>

lol x2

but still another vote for nightforce

 

[7mmRM]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: KillShot</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nightforce, no question about it. </div></div>

+1

 

[Falar]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Between those 2, Nightforce. However, have you considered IOR? The new 3.5-18x50 has had a few good reviews and looks like it may become the best sub 2k FFP scope out there if it proves reliable.

 

[vman]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Nightforce, unless you want a scope thats 25% of the cost of the NF.

If you go for a lower end Loopy try and actually look thru the actual model you want to buy.

Put her down flat on a level bench and look thru the reticle. If the glass is foggy or the reticle is slightly canted dont buy it.

 

[Strangedays]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nightforce, unless you want a scope thats 25% of the cost of the NF.

If you go for a lower end Loopy try and actually look thru the actual model you want to buy.

Put her down flat on a level bench and look thru the reticle. If the glass is foggy or the reticle is slightly canted dont buy it. </div></div>

Which is why I compared them to BSA. I know its not 100% right but the truth is the Mark 4 is over a grand and not worth the money. Leupold has cut way to many corners and people have noticed. I see one person above who must be so deep in leupold crap that he can't pull his head from the sand and figure out what everyone else already knows. I would look at the Vortex line also, some great products coming from them. I have owned both Leupold and Nightforce in the past, Nightforce is 100% a better scope and does not compare to the leupolds low quality scopes. I sold everything Leupold and went with better scopes, best move I have ever done. Sorry for pointing out the obvious to some they call it BS to others it saved them from buying crap and then coming on forums trying to convice themselves they don't own crap.
Look on the sale forums I saw several mark 4s for sale and even more leupold scopes than any other brand.
People are upgrading from the kool aid and getting decent products.

 

[dieselgeek]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: strangedays</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nightforce, unless you want a scope thats 25% of the cost of the NF.

If you go for a lower end Loopy try and actually look thru the actual model you want to buy.

Put her down flat on a level bench and look thru the reticle. If the glass is foggy or the reticle is slightly canted dont buy it. </div></div>

Which is why I compared them to BSA. I know its not 100% right but the truth is the Mark 4 is over a grand and not worth the money. Leupold has cut way to many corners and people have noticed. I see one person above who must be so deep in leupold crap that he can't pull his head from the sand and figure out what everyone else already knows. I would look at the Vortex line also, some great products coming from them. I have owned both Leupold and Nightforce in the past, Nightforce is 100% a better scope and does not compare to the leupolds low quality scopes. I sold everything Leupold and went with better scopes, best move I have ever done. Sorry for pointing out the obvious to some they call it BS to others it saved them from buying crap and then coming on forums trying to convice themselves they don't own crap.
Look on the sale forums I saw several mark 4s for sale and even more leupold scopes than any other brand.
People are upgrading from the kool aid and getting decent products.</div></div>

yeah, BSA right up w/ Leupold. Good comparison.

 

[Strangedays]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dieselgeek</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: strangedays</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nightforce, unless you want a scope thats 25% of the cost of the NF.

If you go for a lower end Loopy try and actually look thru the actual model you want to buy.

Put her down flat on a level bench and look thru the reticle. If the glass is foggy or the reticle is slightly canted dont buy it. </div></div>

Which is why I compared them to BSA. I know its not 100% right but the truth is the Mark 4 is over a grand and not worth the money. Leupold has cut way to many corners and people have noticed. I see one person above who must be so deep in leupold crap that he can't pull his head from the sand and figure out what everyone else already knows. I would look at the Vortex line also, some great products coming from them. I have owned both Leupold and Nightforce in the past, Nightforce is 100% a better scope and does not compare to the leupolds low quality scopes. I sold everything Leupold and went with better scopes, best move I have ever done. Sorry for pointing out the obvious to some they call it BS to others it saved them from buying crap and then coming on forums trying to convice themselves they don't own crap.
Look on the sale forums I saw several mark 4s for sale and even more leupold scopes than any other brand.
People are upgrading from the kool aid and getting decent products.</div></div>

yeah, BSA right up w/ Leupold. Good comparison.

</div></div>
No matter how you wish to look at shit it always smells and reaks of it, leupold and BSA share this common problem with chinese made crap. For the money Leupold should have a rock solid scope but instead they are being beat by many other companies who are building quality scopes at a better price. Nightforce makes great scopes that are built to much higher standards than leupold. But with that said I found your picture online,

 

[dieselgeek]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: strangedays</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dieselgeek</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: strangedays</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: vman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nightforce, unless you want a scope thats 25% of the cost of the NF.

If you go for a lower end Loopy try and actually look thru the actual model you want to buy.

Put her down flat on a level bench and look thru the reticle. If the glass is foggy or the reticle is slightly canted dont buy it. </div></div>




Which is why I compared them to BSA. I know its not 100% right but the truth is the Mark 4 is over a grand and not worth the money. Leupold has cut way to many corners and people have noticed. I see one person above who must be so deep in leupold crap that he can't pull his head from the sand and figure out what everyone else already knows. I would look at the Vortex line also, some great products coming from them. I have owned both Leupold and Nightforce in the past, Nightforce is 100% a better scope and does not compare to the leupolds low quality scopes. I sold everything Leupold and went with better scopes, best move I have ever done. Sorry for pointing out the obvious to some they call it BS to others it saved them from buying crap and then coming on forums trying to convice themselves they don't own crap.
Look on the sale forums I saw several mark 4s for sale and even more leupold scopes than any other brand.
People are upgrading from the kool aid and getting decent products.</div></div>

yeah, BSA right up w/ Leupold. Good comparison.

</div></div>
No matter how you wish to look at shit it always smells and reaks of it, leupold and BSA share this common problem with chinese made crap. For the money Leupold should have a rock solid scope but instead they are being beat by many other companies who are building quality scopes at a better price. Nightforce makes great scopes that are built to much higher standards than leupold. But with that said I found your picture online,

</div></div>


Funny I found yours as well.

 

[DISMAS]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Barska. I'm pretty sure that's what the Delta guys use.

 

[Strangedays]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Dismas</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Barska. I'm pretty sure that's what the Delta guys use. </div></div>
Only if they are on some secret missions because everyone knows when they are out hunting snipers they use Counter Sniper optics, LOL

 

[DISMAS]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

That is until the snipers they were hunting start using Counter Counter Sniper Optics.

 

[BCP]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Funny how leupie threads always go the same way.

 

[Bear_308]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I purchased a new Leupold MkIV in 2005 and I've used the shit out of it at competitions and in the field ... I'm very pleased with it.

I've shot thousands of rounds with ZERO issues ... 6 - 1000 yards, multiple shooting positions, inclement weather conditions, day and night, etc. It has demonstrated repeatible turret adjustments and it ALWAYS returns to zero even after shooting out to 1000yds.

As far as I'm concerned, the glass on this scope is every bit as clear as an equivalent US Optics scope. This is based on a side-by-side comparison looking at multiple targets over multiple competitions in varying light conditions. Both the MkIV and the USO were able to distinguish .243 & .308 holes at 300 yards ... I doubt a BSA could do that.

I've heard the Leupold line has gone downhill since ... but I haven't actually seen one yet or experienced it myself.

Bottom Line - I'd happily purchase another used MkIV -- it's been a great scope for me.

I'm not poo-poo ing the NF ... I'd love to own one someday -- but my MkIV has treated me very well.

Just my $0.02

Bear

 

[BCP]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Bear_308</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I purchased a new Leupold MkIV in 2005 and I've used the shit out of it at competitions and in the field ... I'm very pleased with it.

I've shot thousands of rounds with ZERO issues ... 6 - 1000 yards, multiple shooting positions, inclement weather conditions, day and night, etc. It has demonstrated repeatible turret adjustments and it ALWAYS returns to zero even after shooting out to 1000yds.

As far as I'm concerned, the glass on this scope is every bit as clear as an equivalent US Optics scope. This is based on a side-by-side comparison looking at multiple targets over multiple competitions in varying light conditions. Both the MkIV and the USO were able to distinguish .243 & .308 holes at 300 yards ... I doubt a BSA could do that.

I've heard the Leupold line has gone downhill since ... but I haven't actually seen one yet or experienced it myself.

Bottom Line - I'd happily purchase another used MkIV -- it's been a great scope for me.

I'm not poo-poo ing the NF ... I'd love to own one someday -- but my MkIV has treated me very well.

Just my $0.02

Bear </div></div>

Eh, my mk4 4.5-14 has broken 2x and it's not as good as a USO or NF. It's currently functional although the clicks are off a little bit. Glass quality isn't that great either, lots of mirage at longer ranges especially on summer days. All in all it's good enough considering I got it for free, hard to imagine some poor bastard probably paid 1k for it originally.

 

[sr15match]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

The last side by side comparison was my Mk4 and my USO ST10. Hands down the USO glass was better. It was a rainy gloomy day at the range and it was no contest, USO all the way.

But until I can make a decision on what to buy next it's looking more like it will be a NF for my next build. For the cost it's tough to beat. I'd like to order a new USO but it's another almost $800.......

 

[johncindy]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Hi you are done a great job and hope more and more people join you.
best of luck

 

[dar1246]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I agree the IOR has more features and less money than the NF or Leupys.It would be worth the call to Scott at liberty optics.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Falar</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Between those 2, Nightforce. However, have you considered IOR? The new 3.5-18x50 has had a few good reviews and looks like it may become the best sub 2k FFP scope out there if it proves reliable. </div></div>

 

[VYD]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Barska, BSA, Swift, Gamo, Mueller, Simmons, Leapers, Leupold...oops.

 

[BCP]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dar</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I agree the IOR has more features and less money than the NF or Leupys.</div></div>

They also have really nice glass. Historically their reliability and QC left something to be desired though. I bought a 3-18 used and it went tits up on the second range trip. However, the replacement I have is 100% after 500+ rounds. So, better glass and reticle than leupold but with leupold reliability

 

[exhogflyer]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: john cindy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hi you are done a great job and hope more and more people join you.
best of luck


</div></div>

Great first post and glad you contributed!

 

[kill_goose]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I cant wait to compare my $500 nikon binocs to the set I bought late last night on TV for three easy payments of $1.99.

I get a kick out of some of you guys comparing scopes that arent even near the same cost range. I would hope a scope that costs $500-$1000 more than a leupold is better!

Ive never had problems with a Leupold product. Some day id really really really like to have a S&B, USO, or NF, but I just cant afford them when I compare them to the discounts I get through leup. As soon as I win powerball, you can bet ill have a couple top end scopes, until than ill just have to use those "crappy" leupolds.

 

[Strangedays]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Exhogflyer</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: john cindy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hi you are done a great job and hope more and more people join you.
best of luck


</div></div>

Great first post and glad you contributed! </div></div>
That is a perfect reason why you shouldn't join a forum and write on it when drunk.

 

[AresSBR]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

+1 Nightforce.

 

[samnev]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sititunga1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">NF no question, they are worth the extra money. </div></div>

+1 I have both Leupold's and NightForce and will not buy Leeupolds any longer. NightForce is my choice.

 

[Greene]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I just purchased a new NF 5.5-22x56 with ZS, HS moa turretts about a week ago. I got it together and has been in the feild once so far. Yes there is a cost difference but to me its a no brainer. I would do it again.

+1 Nightforce.

 

[BCP]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: kill_goose</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I get a kick out of some of you guys comparing scopes that arent even near the same cost range. I would hope a scope that costs $500-$1000 more than a leupold is better!
</div></div>

Explain to me how these scopes:

http://www.cstactical.com/MARK-4-LR/T-Fi...10x40-LR/T.html

http://www.cstactical.com/MARK-4-LR/T-Fi...0-LR/T-FFP.html

Are 500-1000 more than these ones:

http://www.cstactical.com/Nightforce/OPT...25-10x32mm.html

http://www.cstactical.com/US-Optics/OPTICS/Rifle-Scopes/US-Optics/US-OPTICS-CST-ST10S.html

http://www.cstactical.com/Valdada-IOR/OP...ll-Reticle.html

Unless the mil or dealer discounts are fairly large I'm not seeing this huge price difference. Leupold isn't the only company to offer a discount to LEO/Mil either.

Seems to me some people have firmly convinced themselves that NF, USO, IOR, Vortex HD, are all totally beyond their reach but they really aren't.

In this economy those who have cold hard cash, patience, and a willingness to shop around are rewarded.

 

[jamessparrow]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I have used Leupold MK 4 and IOR scopes. Both work at doing their job. But, the IOR does it better IMO. If you have the funds get the scope with the glass and features u desire. The operator of the scope is more important than which brand used IMO.

 

[spiaailtli]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

WOW! I came to this site thinking people on here knew what they were talking about and then I read this??? The makes one question the knowledge of every people on here that posted nightforce.

Do a search and find the lab test on scopes. nightforce glass didn't even make the top 10! I took Leupold years to gain the trust of the market place in Germany. Leupold beet out nightforce in every area, weight, better glass, more rugged, water test, etc.

I can guess why one might vote for nightforce, but it aint good. BTW, Leupold wasn't the best of the bunch, but they did make the top five.

 

[Timo Turl]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Are you still here !!!

 

[McKinneyMike]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Step away from the crack pipe!

 

[OverWatch]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I have trained and deployed with leupold scopes for the last 17 years in the Army. I have never had any issues with them, they have always done the job.I have never owned a NF but after my first two deployment I purchased my own Mk4. Since it never let me down in the sand box, I think it should hold up at the local rod and gun club. "Since that is where most of the guys posting about how bad the leupolds are like to hang out".

 

[OverWatch]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

I was j/k about the rod and gun club thing. But if you would not drop your rifle while you were running from your car to the range overhang because it was raining your scopes would stop breaking.. ;-)

 

[LawnMM]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

No experience with Leupold but I just bought a NF F1 and its beautiful. Crisp/Clear glass, nice tactile turret adjustments, Zero Stops, Illuminated FFP Reticle, high speed turrets...its got all the bells and whistles.

Both NF and Leupold have a good rep for customer service but when I was looking into scopes it seems like Nightforce gets the nod for ruggedness. After holding one in my hands I can see why. Its pretty stout.

 

[popeye089]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spiaailtli</div><div class="ubbcode-body">WOW! I came to this site thinking people on here knew what they were talking about and then I read this??? The makes one question the knowledge of every people on here that posted nightforce.

Do a search and find the lab test on scopes. nightforce glass didn't even make the top 10! I took Leupold years to gain the trust of the market place in Germany. Leupold beet out nightforce in every area, weight, better glass, more rugged, water test, etc.

I can guess why one might vote for nightforce, but it aint good. BTW, Leupold wasn't the best of the bunch, but they did make the top five.
</div></div>

You came here asking for advice but it appears you know all the answers. Unlike you, from what I gather from you contantly refering to one article and not real world OJE, there are many individuals here who either 1 operate for a living, 2 are profesional shooters, 3 are not new to this sport (which you stated you were.) Yes maybe Leupold won in that brief time period for that article write up, but........ recently their products have not been able to 1)take the abuse they once were able to. 2)QC is in dier need of a revamp. 3)They have started to use inferior materials hoping to achieve the same result that once earned them their outstanding reputation. Like many here I deployed with and used Leupold products. Yes they were outstanding. And yes they were older. Now when I look through the newer models, it's just not there anymore, turrets are mushy, sometimes too stiff, and reticles canted. I haven't had one go down on my personally but the other things I just mentioned are unacceptable if they seem to be the standard product now.

 

[steve123]

Re: Leupold or Nightforce?

Hmm,I wonder how much the big gold ring Co paid them to do that lab test,just messin with ya,LOL?

I got my only remaining Leupold,a fixed 45X,(mounted to my match air rifle)out of the case last Monday and discovered that the side focus knob had broken off,wouldn't ya know it,arg.Also the turrets on this model have slipped before during a competition,IMO poor design.

This Leupold/Nightforce debate will go on till world end but after owning a few of both I'd gladly pay the extra money towards NF.

To me Leupold has one thing to it's advantage and that's "weight".

I like most everything about NF except that the whole ocular housing turns with magnification and on some of the bigger models the illumination and zero stop needs to updated to be the same as the NXS compact line.