Looking at replacing my Leupold VARI-X III 4.5-14x40MM that i have had for forever with no real complaints just have some Xmas money burning a hole in my pocket. Looking at the following scope and can't make my mind up:

Swaro Z3 4-12x50

Leupold VX5-HD 3-15x44

Zeiss V4 4-16x50

I hunt in south Texas and really only shoot out to around 200-250 on occasion with 95% of my shots are 100-150 yards. I am also wondering if i should go big and spend a little more on the Z5i or VX6HD. I already have a pair of swaro binos and love them to leaning that way but would love to hear what others have to say.

I have the Leupold you refer to. Hunted it hard for five years and am 100% satisfied. I have stacked up a lot of
of game with it and am most impressed with its low light performance and ability to dial and return to zero. Give Leupold good data and get the CDS DIAL. The VX6 isn’t necessary for your needs imo. I have it also, and my set up with the VX5 gets all the use.

I always appreciate the extra magnification so 15 or 16 power for sure. I have the vX6HD and it is very nice. No complaints but I think you cant go wrong on any one you pick on that list

I don’t think there is enough difference between what you have and three you listed to justify changing. Do you just hunt out of a blind or walk? All the scopes you listed are going to be considerably heavier than what you have now.

My buddy has the VX5 and really likes it.

I am mainly out of a blind or driving around and it is going on a 270 Remington model 700 Sendero.

If you just want something new go for it. They are nice scopes, The Leopold CDS is pretty neat for the hunter as are illuminated reticles.

I have the Leupold you mentioned. Love it. Get the model with the fire dot.

Agree with the above. I have that VX5 with firedot and love it. Can't speak to the other 2 on the list.

Ok well after some more research i am going to go a step higher than initially thought. I have it down to:

Leupold VX5HD 4-20x52

Swarovski Z5 5-25x52

Any positives or negatives i need to look at. I am again mainly a stand hunter and don't do any long distance target shooting just looking for some new glass. I will say the Leupold is much bigger in size and coming from my scope now it will take some getting use to.

Nothing leupold makes glass wise compares to anything Swarovski makes.
I would bet the Swarovski would better the Leupold by 15-20 minutes in low light settings early morning or late evening.

Have the vx5 and the v4 and I’d go for the v4 it’s a lot better in my opinion. The glass is better to my eyes anyway. I do have a z6 as well that just sets in my afar because I just have not had any luck with swro’s at all they are clear but that’s about it.

I’m sure I’ll get beat up for this but...... I’m a Leupold fanboy and have told a few members this already...

When I was at the DSC (Dallas safari club show) I looked thru a Leupold VX-6hd a Swarovski Z6 and a Maven RS.5, the Maven was noticeable clearer. I will say the Leupold has a new and interesting feature, if the scope is not level the reticle flashes.

Some of the direct to consumer brands like Maven and Tract give outstanding value. Those brands in particular are made in Japan.

I have the Z-3 4-12x50 you mentioned in your first post on my primary deer rifle. For your stated purpose and ranges it is my choice of all on your list. It has the same glass as the z5 and z6 and a bolder reticle. You will like it for your stated use.
For a simple point and shoot setup on a deer rifle it is very very good.