The upper tier of high-end scopes is not a cheap place play for performance hunting rifle setups; the 2018 class of superior glass is no exception. (Philip Massaro photo)
February 08, 2018
By Philip Massaro
I’m a firm believer that – in most instances – your riflescope should exceed the cost of your rifle. My father always insists “you’ve got to see it to hit it,” but he tends to use inexpensive optics. The higher end of the optics spectrum can be costly indeed, but I’ve had the privilege of using a couple of top-end optics, and there is definitely a difference.
Here are some of the new-for-2018 scopes in the upper price range.
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Scope
With a big-honkin’ 35mm main tube, the new Leupold Mark 5 represents the pinnacle of the Oregon company’s tactical engineering. The best lens treatments, a ginormous field of view, all the light a shooter could ask for; it’s all here. Throw in the Leupold Lifetime Warranty, and you’ll feel better about investing the $1800 to $2,800 street price. The 56mm objective lens – when mated with a 35mm main tube – will allow your eye to soak up all sorts of light, and that tube will allow for all sorts of adjustment within the scope. There’s a full 30 mils of adjustment, and Leupold has had the wisdom to illuminate the reticle, for use in any hunting/shooting situation.
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Leica Magnus 1.8-12x50i Scope
The Leica name has long been synonymous with precision, and their Magnus series of riflescopes is no different. The 1.8-12x50i uses a 30mm main tube and a large 50mm objective lens for the crisp and clear image of your dreams. With 14 mils of total adjustment and the simple, yet effective, L-Ballistic illuminated reticle, the Magnus 1.8-12x50i is a pleasure to look through – as most Leica products are – and will mate perfectly to a fine hunting rifle for a package you can absolutely be proud of. Leica claims 92 percent light transmission through the Magnus series, and after spending a bit of time looking through it I can’t argue. It’s seriously clear. With a street price of right around $2,700, is a hefty investment, but a true value over the lifetime of the scope.
Read the rest of "7 Hunting Scopes for 2018: For When Money Is No Object " at GunsandAmmo.com.
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