Swarovski Z3 vs Leupold VX6

Buck8541

Member
Sep 29, 2012
72
0
Northern California
Well its that time of the year when Uncle Sam has to give back some of my hard earned money, and I have decided to buy a new scope. I am considering a Swarovski Z3 or a Leupold VX6. I have looked through both, they seem to be very close as far as clarity and light transmission. This scope is going on my 280 Remington, I am not looking for a ballistic reticle, just a duplex. Any thoughts, opinions, or comments?
 

Musket Man

Veteran member
Jul 20, 2011
6,457
0
colfax, wa
I have had good luck with leupold VXII scopes over the years but have known of a couple new VXIII's recently that wouldnt hold zero. I was thinking about getting a new leupold VXII LRD but Im kinda hesitant right now. In that price range I would go with swarovski. I think they are on sale at cabelas right now too.
 

Shooter09

New Member
Dec 31, 2011
28
0
Pacific NW
The Z3 will definitely outperform the VX6 especially in low light conditions. I have used both in the field and there is a considerable difference. I think the Z3 is one of the most underrated scopes on the market.
 

Montana

Veteran member
Nov 3, 2011
1,104
400
Bitterroot Valley, MT.
About a year ago or so I ordered a swarm and returned it. I put it through various test condition and just couldn't warrant the upgrade at the time. For the additional cost I wasn't getting that much more than I already had in my VX3. And I am a swaro guy, binos and spotter.

Then this year I went with the VX6 2-12X40. You obviously know it has the 30 mms tube and indeed I did love it. Tremendous light gather at the low level magnification.

I think all in all you can't go wrong with either option but I would have to say +1 on the VX6.
 
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Bitterroot Bulls

Veteran member
Apr 25, 2011
2,326
0
Montana
The VX-6 fixes some of the problems the VX-3 line had, especially variable eye relief. It is a really nice scope, and the 2x low end on the low end has a tremendous field of view.

I have the 4-12X50 Z3 and think it is a fine scope as well, with better optics on the high end of the magnification range.

So I guess the 2-12 Z6 has the advantage on the low end and the Z3 has the advantage on the high end. Your call.

Both scopes are assembled in the US, and have excellent warranties behind them. Choose one and go!
 

Bitterroot Bulls

Veteran member
Apr 25, 2011
2,326
0
Montana
Thanks BB... Is the BT a standard feature or additional cost? And is it available on all models? This post made me look at the Swaro's and man'o'man have the prices come down on their scopes. I was quite impressed.
The BT adds some cost. CDS-style custom etched rings are available.

They are a quality option.
 

packmule

Veteran member
Jun 21, 2011
2,433
0
TX
You can pretty much get BT turrets for most mid-upper end scopes now. I say flip a coin, both companies have good CS so in the event one gets a lemon it can be taken care of. Anytime you start increasing magnification chances are good the higher quality glass will win out.