Leupold VS. Weaver

[decr8er]

Let me preface this by saying that I have no business looking at a new scope....at least for now...or next week (whichever comes first). However, if I were actively looking for a new scope, which of these two scopes have superior optics and/or mechanics. Is it A) the Weaver 36x X40mm T-series? Or #2 the Leupold 30x X40mm FX-III series?
All things being equal, as far as optical clarity, I would lean towards the Weaver. It has a lower cost, 1/8 MOA(vs. 1/4) and a higher magnification. But, then again, Leupold is known for the clarity of their optics, so their 30x may be a more efficient tool in the long run.
Does anyone have experience with both? I have shot many Leupold's, but have never used a Weaver. How is the picture through a Weaver?
Thanks in advance, tim

 

[David Valdina]

Use of scope ?

Hi Tim, Will you be using the scope to shoot rimfire benchrest ? If yes, I will suggest the Weaver. I have almost always owned and used Leupold for all of my many years of hunting and just this year decided to give up hunting and stick with target shooting. For this purpose, the scope need not withstand the recoil of a large centerfire, nor stay waterproof for days on end rain. I have not owned a 36x Weaver, but am looking to buy one at some point. So, buy the Weaver, in black please, then if you don't like it I can buy it from you as a second hand scope and save even more on the price. Seriously, I think 36 power is worth having with my old eyes, and the 1/8th dot a better dot than a 1/4" dot. Good luck. David

 

[rick_687]

Weaver

hands down!. I doubt you can tell any difference in optics between the two and the Weaver scopes are absolutely repeatable, have the 1/8 min. dot, adjustable objective and are about half the price of a Leupold. I cannot understand why Leupolds are so expensive. In my 40+ years of shooting I've only had one scope fail, a Leupold, and it failed after the first cylinderful on a 44 mag. revolver. I have 2 of the T-36 Weavers for rimfire benchrest and couldn't be more pleased.

 

[Dave S]

I second Rick answer.. I have three Weaver 36X with 1/8" dot and love them.. Am planning on another one as soon as I get this 40X I'm looking at..

Dave

 

[Beau]

I cannot understand why Leupolds are so expensive.

Lifetime warranty to any owner.

With that said, the new Leupolds such as the 30x are probably excellent scope that will hold most of their value. But, the Weaver is a good choice. I think the overall best choice is an old 36X Leupold. You can buy one for around 500 and if, for some reason, you don't like it, you can sell it for around $500, so no real risk. If you're looking at the 30X for BR, the dot appears a little large, but you can probably buy one through the custom shop with a smaller dot.