Which power of Leupold Competition scope?

[SS427]

I'm in the market for a high power benchrest scope and will probably end up with the Leupold Competition model with the target dot. Not sure which power to get...35x, 40x or 45x. Highest power I've ever had was a Weaver 36x which I wasn't a big fan of because it wasn't all that clear. I'm assuming the Leupold scopes are much clearer.

What do you recommend and WHY?

 

[tenring]

All are fine scopes, very clear. I love my LCS 40x; however, my Weaver 36's are great scopes for the money. The Leupold is a tad more clear than the Weaver.

 

[artbosco]

I'm in the market for a high power benchrest scope and will probably end up with the Leupold Competition model with the target dot. Not sure which power to get...35x, 40x or 45x. What do you recommend and WHY?

I have TWO of the Leupold Competition scopes with fine crosshairs in 45X. For my aging eyes, I wanted more power. I've always found that the adage "if you can't see it, you can't hit it," is very applicable.

I also own TWO Weaver T-36X scopes that I used before the Leupolds. They were a blessing when mirage became a major issue.

 

[fdshuster]

Bought my first Competition Series 40x, and was so impressed with it, bought another, also 40x. Was able to compare them side-by-side with my older Leupold BR 36x's, and while they were very good, the new Competition 40x's seem brighter, clearer and eye relief is not as critical. At times depending on the amount of light on the tgt. at 300 yds., I could not always spot my 6mm holes, but with the 40x's that has not been a problem. And, yes, I do like the side focus. Wanted a little more than the available 35x, but was a bit afraid ( too much?) of the 45x, so for me, the 40x was a good compromise. Ranks right up there alongside my NF BR 12-42x's.

 

[SS427]

Thanks guys. I'm down to the 40 or 45X now at least. I'm like Frank in thinking 45X might be too much. But I see the 45x is what shows up most on the short range match equipment lists. Sure wish I could view them side by side, but where I live in Oregon there just doesn't seem to be much interest in short range benchrest shooting. I've yet to see one of these scopes in any of the gun stores I visit.

 

[madmixerman]

I have both a 40 & 45. I use the 40x for close range br where I found the mirage issue at 200 yds. to be a problem in the summer with the 45x. I use the 45x for the long range Groundhog matches where I can usually see my 6mm holes on the target at 500 meters. Both have the target dot ,but now I wish I'd got the fine crosshair instead. However that is just my preference.