40mm vs. 50mm obj. lens
#1
40mm vs. 50mm obj. lens
Word on the street is that the larger the obj. lens, the more light the scope transmits. I also hear that the dia. of the tube makes a difference. W/ that being said, what's better, a 40 or 50mm obj. lens on a 1" dia. scope tube? I'm thinking of a new Leupold VX3, either the 3.5-10x40 or 50 or the VX3 4.5-14x40 or 50. When would you want a 40mm vs. 50mm & vice versa?
#5
Spike
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: DGO, CO
Posts: 52
Dont go higher than the 3.5-10 magnification. For shots that close you dont need to have the scope set past 5 anyways. I think a 2-7x40 is a great option. If you are constantly taking shots at dawn or dusk than a 50mm objective might help but most likely you wont see a difference in the 40 to 50 except in price
#6
Agree that 3.5-10 would be perfect. I actually have a 50mm leupold, and it does have great light transmission early and late. It was slightly better than the 40mm leupold I replaced, but not neccessarily needed. Both were alot better than lesser scopes for sure.
#7
Nontypical Buck
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Clermont Florida U.S.
Posts: 4,970
The only advantage I see for the 50mm (+) objectives is: The exit pupil can be a bit higher at higher magnification. In other words, in order to achieve a desirable EP, the 50mm may be able to be used at slightly higher magnification levels than a 40mm lens.
I prefer 40-42 mm objectives for most hunting applications...as long as the glass is great with good coatings. Most 50+ units are heavier and seem more bulky to me.
I prefer 40-42 mm objectives for most hunting applications...as long as the glass is great with good coatings. Most 50+ units are heavier and seem more bulky to me.
#9
Nontypical Buck
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Clermont Florida U.S.
Posts: 4,970