I did not see this until earlier, so I am just now chiming in.
Here are a couple things that makes Leupold different than most their competitors. First, they try to manufacture as much of their product in the USA, as possible. Some components come from overseas on their lower priced goods and some of the lowest priced goods are made overseas. On the lower priced items, that is the only way to be competitive, thanks to all their competitors being foreign companies.
Their medium to higher end products are mostly made in Oregon. Good for all of us.
Here is where Leupold really earns my admiration, and makes me glad that every rifle I have ever owned, with the exception of my first as teenager, has carried Leupold scopes.
Look to see who is supporting conservation among the optics companies. I can save you the effort. Leupold is so far ahead of the rest of their competition, it wouldn't surprise me if they made more contributions than the rest of them combined.
Leupold understands that the hunter is why they are in business. They are not a camera company trying to be a hunting company. They do not send all the profits to the Land of the Rising Sun. They do not beat their drum about how much they support hunters and conservation, but look at it as just something this family has been doing since time began.
When chosing optics, we all focuse on value - where price and quality intersect. Leupold can compete with anyone on the value scale. When you buy your next optics, I hope you give some consideration to the other good work that Leupold is doing on our behalf.
And, if the chance comes, ask some of their competitors what they are doing for conservation. It would be great for the others to step to the plate the way Leupold does. Since Leupold refuses to beat their own drum about their conservation support, I felt compelled to do it for them.
And yes, their MT/WY sales rep is the best. Not sure about his claims of good looks, etc., but he is a really good guy.
