We currently have 3x9x40 scopes on our .223,.243 & .270 however family would like to be able to see target or animals much larger in scope before they pull trigger. Scope manufacturers vary from Leopold to Zeiss to Bushnell.

What size do I need to consider going to. Shots are not over 140 yds.

I'd suggest looking for something in the 4-14x to 4-16x which is a 50% to 75% increase in power.
Along with more top end power, you will typically lose field of view which I consider fairly important on a hunting optic especially at the short range you cited.
Something to consider.

I agree with RHutch. I gave away (to a BIL) the last 3-9 scope I had, and it was a Zeiss Conquest. I just didn't want it any more. Now it's mostly 4.5-14 or 4-16.

What are you currently running?
If they are cheap scopes you would be amazed at what top end scopes do at the same power level.

Are you just wanting them to appear "bigger" or looking for more detail like judging antler points?

I now have a VX II, Zeiss Conquest Z600 and a cheapy that came with the savage .223.

what's your budget?
rephrase, "what is your breaking point?"

I think the best money spent is on the optics. But I don't have Swaro dollars to spend. First one ill get is for the .270 and replace the VX-II. Then look at replacing the Bushnell on the .223. The Zeiss on the .243 is nice just not a big enough view point.

I don't think a 12x is really that much bigger than a 9x with similar glass.

You aren't talking about better low light performance so I am going to assume that is not really in question.

You might look at the Zeiss HD5 3-15

What are your thoughts on Vortex scopes?

I got an old school Redfield wide vision on a 22-250 and really like it. Cheap scope but little recoil on the 250 so havnt had a problem with it at all

Not sure what you mean by 'view point" do you mean field of view? If you do then increasing magnification decreases field of view. Most scope issues are cover in the topic 'Riflescope School' stickyed at the top.

Are you going out this weekend? You should look through the scope on my 7-08 and see what you think. It's a 4-14.

B-man,

I was thinking about your situation on Tuesday. I had just done some shooting at 600 yards with my 5-20X. I turned it down to 14X and had a look at all of the targets from 200 out to 800 yards. You can get a whole bunch accomplished with 14X. So I'm in the 4-14X camp for your situation. I'd strongly recommend quality glass, as well. Clarity cannot be substituted with magnification. I'd also suggest a 50mm objective and 30mm tube. That is what all of my scopes are, and I've come accustomed to the field of view as well as the light transmission of them.