Difference between Leupold's VX-3 1.5-5 and Mark 4 1.5-5 (SPR reticles) [Archive]

SkiDevil

06-17-11, 17:08

Hey jwfuhrman,
I am not an expert on Leupold, but my understanding is that the glass/ lense coating on the MRT is a higher quality versus the standard hunting model. Also, both are 30mm tubes but the MRT model has an glass etched reticle versus the wire reticle on the VX-3 model, and the option for the additional BDC turrets.

There have been a few posts on here regarding the 1.5X5 MRT. I think the best one I saw was by Cameron. He used to use one for target shooting if I recall correctly. The SPR reticle would appear to have some definite advantages over the standard or circle-dot type.
https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=46323&highlight=leupold

Some have complained of the glass quality on the MRT model. If you can, it may be worthwhile to check-one out before you buy-it. The 1.5-5X MRT model is supposed to be discontinued, so you may be able to find one at a good price.

And if you check around, some of the online optics dealers will accept a return on an "unmounted" optic. SWFA is one of those dealers. There are likely more who do the same.

I was going to purchase a high-end scope this year but want to wait until some of the other models make it to the market. I like Leupold scopes and had the chance to see their 1.5-6X VX-7 model. It is pretty nice and I have seen it for around $1,000 at two different stores. I am seriously considering purchasing one for a temporary use on my 14.5" AR and then putting it on a light-weight .308 bolt rifle later.

http://swfa.com/Leupold-15-6x24-VX-7-30mm-Riflescope-P7298.aspx

Finally, I have seen at least one other member that was using the 1.5-6X VX-7 on an AR rifle. I asked his opinion, the only complaint mentioned was the thickness of the reticle at distance. It didn't strike me as a problem in examining the scope, but I have not mounted and shot one on an AR pattern rifle yet either.

The 1.5-5X MRT has been around for sometime. There seem to be some who like the utility of the scope combined with the price-point. Something that strikes me however is the number of them that I have seen for sale on various forums. A lot of folks buy them and then turn-around and are selling-it or trying to sell one. Something also to keep in mind.

Regards,
SkiDevil

P.S. A lot of folks really seem to like the Vortex PST and SWFA 1-4, something to consider too.

Links:
http://swfa.com/Leupold-Mark-4-MRT-Riflescopes-C125.aspx

http://swfa.com/Leupold-15-5x20-VX-3-30mm-Riflescope-P45019.aspx

Singlestack Wonder

06-17-11, 21:47

Instead of a VX-7 model, I would look at the new VX-6 models. 1 to 6 magnification and according to Leupold at SHOT 2011, the glass is much better as well as offering a good image thru out the full zoom range (something older Leupold variables had issues with). It's not on Leupold's web site yet but if you download the 2011 catalog from the sight, the VX-6 can be found. SWFA also has them on their website including illuminated reticle versions not in the 2011 Leupold catalog.

http://swfa.com/Leupold-VX-6-Riflescopes-C3457.aspx