I am about to buy a new scope for a 7mm-08. Is there anything in the $500 range any better than the VX-3i? I'll get either a 3.5-10 or 4.5-14.

I want a 42-50mm scope.

It's going on an all around rifle that will primarily be used on our nearly nocturnal Alabama deer.

3.5-10x42. 'Nuf said.

That'll work great!

Wouldn't trade my 42 for a 50.

I have both, 50 mm might let you see a bit longer or a tad earlier. You will need medium rings for the 50, more than likely.

The other two scopes I'm considering are the Trijicon Accupoint 2.5-12.5x42 and the VX-R 3-9x50.

40mm if like a lower cheek fit, 50mm a tad bit brighter at lower light given same power range and tube size.

I run both depending on rifle application.

I have a 3-9x50 VXR. If you're looking for a scope to use in low light, look no further. I bought mine for taking to Texas to hunt hogs (frequently at dusk or after dark), and have found nothing better.

^^^This^^^ With the Firedot reticle it's hard to beat for shooting hogs at night or deer or varmints right at dusk.

I live and hunt here in Bama for the past 50 years and have
tried just about EVERY Scope Reticle combo there
is for Nocturnal Deer.
Redfield old style Denver made still the best sevice scope EVER used
then went to the Older Leupolds
tried the Trijicons they are okay
For me I went back to what our own Mule Deer John B. suggested
Leupold FX-3 6x42 Heavy Duplex on all my Rifles except my Ruger RSI 30-06
and only not that one cause of the open sights.
A FX-3 6x42 HD was made for our Nite Owl Deer here in Bama!
AMRA

I like the old Denver Redfield scopes too. My favorite is the post and crosshair. I bet I have a dozen old Redfields. The 3x9 accutrac are great for an AR