Rifle Scopes Leupold Mark 6 or Nightforce Compact NXS - Advice?

[Elite_KG]

Been trying to pick a scope for varmint hunting on my latest bolt rig. I originally was looking for about a 3-15 variable power FFP with illumination. My reasoning is I like range days with my rigs and enjoy the benefits of FFP and exposed turrets, yet in practical hunting situations FFP on low power is almost useless in low light (dawn/dusk) conditions in the woods. That's why I generally buy illuminated optics and this has served me well. I currently have a 3-9 and a 5-20 both illuminated with exposed turrets.
I really became fond do the compact scopes lately and the Leupold Mark 6 3-18 has my attention. It is perfect for my application other than it does not offer illumination (at a reasonable price $1000 more). I then came across the compact Nightforce 2.5-10 NXS (SFP) with illumination. My issue is the non-illuminated Leupold Mark 6 3-18 and the Nighforce 2.5-10 are both about the same price yet somewhat different. Neither one has everything I'm seeking in one package. If I choose the Leupold I will likely suffer in low light conditions (high percentage game movement time here in LA) while if I choose the Nightforce I give up the magnification and FFP.
The end all solution would be the Leupold Mark 6 3-18 (model 117496) illuminated TMR, but at just under $3K I do t think that is possible or practical in my situation.
This is a varmint/predator rig in 22-250. Shots out to 300 or so hunting and out to 600 at the range.
Without venturing into several other makes and models, I would like to hear a few opinions on choosing between these two optics. Of course ideas for other optics out there are welcomed. Trying to make a decision and kinda stuck. Thanks!

 

[Pusher591]

I've had both and hands down the nod goes to the Mk6. Its light, great magnification range, and glass is substantially better the anything Nightforce puts out that's not in the ATACR catagory.

You say you will suffer in lowlight conditions with the Leupold but its glass is better then the NF and the Mk6 glass is the same glass used in their Mk8 line. Unless you were just referring to the non-illumination handicapping you.

I highly suggest the Mk6

You could alway look for a used NF F1, its FFP 3-15 and illuminated. They can be had for between $1800-$2200 depending on condition.

 

[Ledzep]

I have a 2.5-10x32 NXS, a 3.5-15x50, and used to have a 5.5-22x NXS. I also have the non-illuminated 3-18x mk6 with TMR reticle.

You're in a tough spot (hard decision to make). Really it just comes down to which size you want, and if FFP is that important to you. The Mk6 is going to be hard to use in low light under 5-6x because the reticle is so thin. Likewise, the reticle appears very fat at 15-18x. You also get a significantly darker image through the scope at 15-18x. It's all good and fine in the day, but as you get really close to dark it may begin to be an issue. There is also the issue with their elevation turrets being sloppy. Once you realize what's happening and how to deal with it, it's not an issue, but some people are very OCD about things like that.

The NF is SFP, so the reticle only really works at 10x. 10x is noticeably darker than 2.5-6x. However, the reticle is illuminated if need be.

The glass is a wash to me. I can't see anything with one that I can't with the others. You're not going to be disappointed with the glass quality either way.

If it were me, I'd get the NXS 2.5-10x32. Cut weight and size and have enough scope for 600yd. I can deal with SFP, especially with this scope because it's not hard to stay at 10x most of the time. The turrets are nicer in my opinion, and you'll have an illuminated reticle for low light hunting.

 

[Elite_KG]

I know they are both nice and when I was referring to suffering in lowlight condition with the Leupold it was due to it not having illumination. I can live without FFP, but I was hoping for a little more magnification. Love the compacts, but now may consider the 3-15 NF as a middle choice contender.
Thanks for the practical and useful information. Being first hand make it especially significant.
I think the NF's are out front in my mind thus far and I will price up and check availability on both the 2.5-10 and 3-15.
Thanks again.

 

[jonthomps]

I'd give the NF 2.5-10x42 some serious consideration. I just bought one and they are a definite upgrade from the 32mm model (I have one of those too). For the price and weight I'm not sure you could lose with a NF compact. Good luck. It's nice to have these kinds of problems!

 

[bp7178]

I'm on the fence between the 2.5-10x42 NXS and a Bushy 3-12x44. The extra $1k between the two doesn't help. Both have their advantages, but I worry the Bushy will seem "cheap". I've read some complaints of exit pupil/eye box with the Bushy, which the exact opposite of what I've read about the NXS. The Bushy also gets a few complaints regarding the illumination being uneven, and I like the form factor of the NXS better; both lighter and shorter with lower profile turrets...but I come back to that $1k difference...lol

 

[CSTactical]

The Leupold Mark 6 are rocking scopes and every well made. Illumination is not a big factor, if it not a factor to you then look at the Leupold MK6.

Mike @ CSTACTICAL

 

[5RWill]

The Mark 6 has exceptional glass. What might be more of a concern is to check out the turrets, it could be bothersome if you aren't used to turrets with some play in them. But the M5C2 supposedly corrects that. I like my Mark 6 a lot unprecedented as far as size and weight is concerned for it's power range. Glass is just as good as my SN-3.

 

[Elite_KG]

Illumination is near "a must" in my scope selection especially with FFP. I think the end all of this quandary is the Leupold Mark 6 (119214) 3-18 FFP. It has everything I need and want in a scope for this rig. Consequence is the price. I may just have to go all out not to have any regrets, but I'm sure my better half would strongly disagree.

 

[Elite_KG]

Here's where I stand and I need a last push to make a final determination. I've upped the ante and decide to buy once, cry once. I'm looking at the Leupold Mark 6 3-18x44 Illuminated TMR M5C2 turrets vs the Nightforce 3-15x50 NXS F1. The money is basically the same for both so we are flipping the coin so to speak on optics alone. While I don't need a compact, I kinda dig it for a somewhat shorter gun (22" barrel bolt gun). The Nightforce reputation for quality and durability keep ringing in my mind. It's a NF, not much else to be said. Not a easy decision...

 

[TireMan]

I love the Leupold warranty, but Nightforce has a "cachee" that cannot be debated. All stats aside.

 

[Ledzep]

I would flip a coin. Probably the Mk6 for weight/space savings.

 

[GUNNER10]

Here's where I stand and I need a last push to make a final determination. I've upped the ante and decide to buy once, cry once. I'm looking at the Leupold Mark 6 3-18x44 Illuminated TMR M5C2 turrets vs the Nightforce 3-15x50 NXS F1. The money is basically the same for both so we are flipping the coin so to speak on optics alone. While I don't need a compact, I kinda dig it for a somewhat shorter gun (22" barrel bolt gun). The Nightforce reputation for quality and durability keep ringing in my mind. It's a NF, not much else to be said. Not a easy decision...

shot NF's for a long time, would say that hands down, the NSX line is a much better scope than leupolds mkIV line, better glass, recticles, turrets.

compared to leupolds current line up of 34mm scopes, its not even close, leupold IMO makes a much better scope. better eye box, glass, zoom ration, turrets/locking/zero stop set function.

NF makes a great scope, but the F1 is still the same as it was when it came out almost 6 years ago. there have been a ton of great scopes to hit the market since it was launched

 

[Elite_KG]

Thanks for the latest round of responses. My internal thoughts seem to echo Gunner's. And I do find some advantage in weight and space as Ledzep mentioned. Talked with a few fellow coworkers and it was about 50/50 with the older crowd leaning NF and the younger generations looking Leupold. It being a 22" gun for Predator hunting, the hiking setup, hiking re-setup favors a more compact rig. I have a 5-20x50 monster on my 308 and it almost looks out of place in the 20" tube.

Leupold Mark 6 119214 - illuminated TMR M5C2 turrets it is! Closure is nice. Now I just have to wait till one comes in. I have back order notification request out to several dealers. Hope it comes around soon. Yote season here starts at the end of the month. If not, the ol' AR will have to make the early season appearance.

Thanks everyone!

 

[19Scout77]

Not to slow your roll, but for that much money...I suggest you buy a used SB.

 

[Elite_KG]

I really appreciate the suggestion, but I've never been big on buying certain items used such as optics. You are right; I could probably get a superior optic for similar cash. Not sure I like the risk associated with used optics.

 

[Singlestack_Wonder]

I'm a Nightforce guy. But with that said, the only thing holding me back from purchasing a Leupold MK6 1-6x is the fact that illumination is only available for the center horseshoe and dot. If the MK6 provided an illumination selection where either the horseshoe/dot OR BDC/Ranging reticle could be selected, I'd buy one now.