I have never owned anything larger than 40mm. I’m considering a 50 mm scope to python a .300 Win Mag as a dedicated elk rifle. I’m worried about how high a 50 mm scope might set. I’m considering A Leupold VX L. What are your experiences with 50 mm scopes in general and also with the VXL ?

5mm higher than the 40mm in the best case scenario. Just depends on wether or not you can reuse the current rings you have or if you have to go taller. Taller won’t necessarily make the top of the scope higher, but will give you the scope to barrel clearance you need.

<50 I feel is more scabbard friendly, now probably in my head since I been using same scabbard for 30 years.

For me it depends on the balance of the rifle and the height of the comb. I dislike putting big glass on svelte rifles, and I dislike having to lift my cheek off the comb to aim, particularly with anything that kicks.

Glass quality trumps magnification AND objective size. What I’m saying is, a 50 cost more than a 40 across the board. I feel the money is better spent on higher quality glass. A VX-3 with a 50mm will be easily outclassed by a VX-5 with something smaller. Even in the lowest light.

Remember this is just my opinion, but it’s based on a lot of experience.

Can you get the VX5 with Boone and Crockett reticle and without the CDS system?

You do not need to use the CDS on the VX5HD.

Jumping from 40 to 50 usually costs about $100 to $200 bucks depending on the manufacturer. Its hard to truly step up in glass quality for that little of a price change. That being said, I agree quality trumps size. a 40mm Swaro will outperform a 56mm Vortex in light transmission and clarity.

FWIW, I dont think the VX5 comes in a 50mm. Either 52 or 44. and yes, B&C reticle is an option. P/N 171717 for a 3-15x44.

Id highly recommend sticking with a 44mm or less on a hunting rifle. If you were able to look through both side by side w/out knowing which is which, you'd be hard-pressed to choose correctly. If I had to try to assign a number value, Id say the 52 buys you 5 minutes of light/visibility over a 44.