Great scope, just horrible in forward scout position - Leupold VXR 1.5-5x33mm Scout FireDot Duplex Scope

I have a Burris 2-7x32 Scout Scope on my M1A Scout Squad and thought I would try this Leupold Scout Scope for my Ruger Gunsite Scout. On paper, it would be PERFECT. Love the magnification range and the reticle is top notch. I was a little hesitant about the overall length and weight, but figured the compromise would be worth it. When I took it out of the box and looked through it, I was amazed at the clarity. It is, after all, a Leupold! It was a beautiful scope.

When mounted to the GSR on the forward scout rail, the story changes however. The eye box is HORRIBLE in the Scout position with the magnification dialed up any higher than 1.5x. One's face has to be uncomfortably stretched far forward to even get in to the eyebox with the scope mounted PROPERLY IN FRONT OF THE RECEIVER. On 7x, forget it. If you mount the scope on the rail set back OVER the receiver it is OK, but that defeats the idea of a FORWARD MOUNTED SCOUT OPTIC.

I tried it on a Marlin 1895 SBL and it was much better because the receiver is not as long and the rail is further back. Not technically a Scout rifle, but it was certainly usable.

Since I wanted the GSR setup in it's SCOUT configuration and not with standard rings, I sent the Leupold back and purchased another Burris Scout like the one on my M1A. That is an AMAZING scope, i only wish it had an illuminated reticle of some kind.

Finally, this scope is AMAZING quality, crystal clear, FireDot is awesome, matte finish appears to be very durable, etc. I will order another one in the future, but to be tasked to the 1895 or an AR platform. NOT a designated scout rifle.