Since I own nothing but Leupold scopes, I can't comment on other brands. The only customer service I needed was when I left my adjustment covers on the bench when sighting in a new 2-7 - I told the rep what happened and he sent me two new ones N/C. I do have some stiff zoom rings however...
zoom ring is still much stiffer than I like. I'd be interested, Big Redhead, to know how you lubricate yours.
A primer on lubricating the zoom ring WOULD be useful.