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When folks get into long, involved arguments over the relative clarity and brightness of a $1400 scope over one that cost a MERE $700, or tell you that if your rifle doesn't cost $2200 it is a POS, it makes me smile.
Every time I consider a purchase the concepts of �opportunity cost� (what else could I do with the money) and �diminishing returns� (the 80/20 rule) seem to get involved. After hunting with a Bushnell Sportview 3-9x for 20+ years and never liking it but never losing a shot opportunity due to the poor quality optics, the scopes I use these days are wondrous by comparison. Most are pre-owned Leupolds and new Burris Fullfield II�s but even the cheap Simmons is a quantum leap forward in comparison.
The most expensive scopes are the two Leupold 3.5-10x scopes I purchased used for $350 each. The most numerous are Burris FF-II Ballistic Plex 3-9x purchased new for around $160 each. Most of my rifles were broken in by someone else as well, and I challenge anyone to tell the difference from those I purchased new by how they shoot or look. When it comes to game on the ground, I�m not sure what a $700 or $1400 scope or $2000 rifle would do other than empty my wallet faster.
