We used a 2.5-8 Leupold for 20 plus years, and never found it lacking. But, over the last 8 or 10 years our hunting areas often offer shots farther than we can ethically shoot. We stepped-up to a 3.5-10 Leupold CDS, giving our old eyes a little better scope for long shots. The scope is always on 3.5, unless a shot is offered at long distance with sufficient time to “power-up”! Even at 3.5, it’s still doable on large game out to 400 or so.....yet is great for an up close and quick shot, if offered!

If a lot of walking is involved, I’d take the smaller, lighter Leupold.....but, I’m not as fit as I used to be. If hunting from, vehicle, horseback, ect.......use whatever you prefer, no matter the size and weight! memtb

You should not use a rifle that will kill an animal when everything goes right; you should use one that will do the job when everything goes wrong." -Bob Hagel

“I’d like to be a good rifleman…..but, I prefer to be a good hunter”! memtb 2024