Nikon buck master vs. Vortex diamondback vs. Leupold bc-1

[clfergus]

I saw a vx-1 on sale today for 159.99 after coupon. Looking at something for my .308 for deer season but would like it as accurate as possible. I could get a used Nikon cheap from a friend but have also read about vortex. WhT is the best scope for 200 bucks to achieve the accurate groups?

 

[Slonsteady]

Nikon's are a great value. I have been very happy with my Rimfire Prostaff. As an alternative take a look at the new Leupold VX Freedom. You can pick one up new in your price range. I have the 3-9 x 40 with the Tri MOA reticle. Great clarity and eye relief and it is light weight. It holds zero and I have shot .5 moa 100 yards a few times. My only ding and it is minor is it didn't come with lens caps. I picked up some rubber bikini covers for $8 so no biggie.

 

[STFU]

I was very happy with my first Vortex Diamondback Rimfire for my 10/22. I looked at the other two you mention but ended up buying another Vortex Diamondback for my RAR 300Blk.
Warranty, price, etc. Hard to beat.

 

[seedubs1]

Vortex and Sightron are pretty well the industry leaders in this price bracket.

Personally, if I have Vortex Diamondback money, I am searching for deals on scopes in the next price bracket though. Seems like lots of Weaver LOW Japan glass has been selling for extremely cheap recently.

 

[SEMI-AK]

I would recommend saving $50 bucks more and check in to the diamondback HP 3-12 (parallax adjustable) or diamondback tactical 4-12. 12 power is just enough for good precision work with a 308 in Indiana.
For deer you want lower magnification. I can still shoot at pretty much whatever distance I want with the 3 and then crank up to 12 if I have time. With the bdc or VMR1 you can hold over if you are shooting 400-600 ish easy. After that it is trickier...but for me my scope was on 3 power most of last deer season. The one deer I did shoot I might have killed it by dropping my rifle on it just the same as a 165 grain. nosler.