I'm in the market for a scope for a new rifle. I don't really know the caliber of the rifle (other than it's a higher caliber deer rifle) because it's supposed to be a gift from my girlfriend. On the other hand, my parents are giving me $350 for Christmas. Instead of trying to guess what I want, they just decided to give me the money to buy what I want, then try to act surprised at Christmas. So I have the potential to make a really nice setup here. But I was wondering what ya'll thought the best scope out there is for around/under $350? I like 40mm diameter and 3-9x or 4-12 is the most I'll ever need.
I've thought about Leupold VX-2, Nikon Buckmasters, Zeiss Terra 3x, Burris Fullfield, Nikon Monarch (on sale), etc. For the price I've found some Nikon Prostaffs, I could get two of those. I also know where I can get Buckmasters for sub-$200 before tax. I've read where a lot of people say there isn't a huge difference in the Prostaff, Buckmasters, and Monarch. I like the idea of the Zeiss Terra 3x, but it's new-ish and there are not many reviews. It's a "fancy" brand, but it's also their cheapest scope. I don't really know; that's why I'm asking for some input. If you had a free $350, what scope would you buy?
I've thought about Leupold VX-2, Nikon Buckmasters, Zeiss Terra 3x, Burris Fullfield, Nikon Monarch (on sale), etc. For the price I've found some Nikon Prostaffs, I could get two of those. I also know where I can get Buckmasters for sub-$200 before tax. I've read where a lot of people say there isn't a huge difference in the Prostaff, Buckmasters, and Monarch. I like the idea of the Zeiss Terra 3x, but it's new-ish and there are not many reviews. It's a "fancy" brand, but it's also their cheapest scope. I don't really know; that's why I'm asking for some input. If you had a free $350, what scope would you buy?
