The only lower grade Weaver scopes were those marked "Marksman," I believe.
There were lots of variations within a K-number, usually marked after the power, K4 60B, K4 C-3, etc. Different markings indicate an improvement of some sort, which then makes the older one "lower quality."
I think they were all made in El Paso, but maybe they had export in mind when the ones marked USA were made.
There was an aluminum body Weaver scope made in El Paso for a few years, called the Classic. It was a higher grade scope than the steel ones. It is not the same as the modern Weaver Classic series.
Bruce
The old aluminum Weaver Classics are excellent scopes and I would select one over an old steel Weaver any day. I owned a used 400 (4x) and wished I had bought a used 300 (3x) when I had the chance. Their lenses were excellent. The regular steel Weavers that I have owned were still rugged but my aging eyes are not helped much by the aging glass in those old Weavers.
I also think that the new Weaver Classics are a solid scope and a fantastic value for the money. I put a new K6 on a rifle last year and have been impressed with it for the money. My only complaint with the new Weavers is the finish. Just don't care for it.
Dan
