Merriam-Webster’s dictionary gives the following definition for the word value: (noun) a fair return or equivalent in goods, services or money for something exchanged. Simple enough, right?
Too often in today’s world, value equates to inexpensive, but that’s not the case: An item can be costly and still be a good value. In the optics world, this is glaringly apparent. A riflescope can be easily affordable, yet not be a good value … meaning the scope might not give the desired image or hold zero reliably.
On the flip side of that coin, the finest European lenses might not give enough of an advantage over less expensive models to warrant the additional cost. So, how do you know that you’re getting?
Let’s look at what I consider to be the current top five scope values for hunters and shooters.
THE LEUPOLD VX-5HD
Depending on your magnification needs, one of
