Nightforce nxs 2.5-10x32 np-r2 review - NightForce NXS 2.5-10x32mm Compact Illuminated Zero Stop Rifle Scope

Rifle: McMillan M1A Tactical Scout
Tested on same rifle: Leupold Mk4 LRT 3.5-10x M3 Illum MLR, Aimpoint Micro H1, Leupold FXII 2.5x Scout
Note: Installed by Smith Enterprise using SEI M21 mount and SEI rings
- Clarity: glass is more clear and colors are more vivid than both Leupolds
- Build: it is 19oz (compared to 20oz Mk4) with smaller ojective (32mm vs 40mm), so something felt 'more' solid--and I also already consider the Mk4 solid
- Zoom range: 2.5-10x compares to Mk4's 2.5-8x or 3.5-10x. Next step up is USO 1.8-10x
- Reticle: NPR2 reticle floats cleanly as it is finely etched. I chose NPR2 b/c I thought NPR1 seemed a little busy after using the Mk4 MLR reticle. I'm 50/50 here because at 100 yards, the NPR2 still feels a touch busy. If this sounds like you, I highly suggest going Mil Dot, but take into account regular knobs are MOA only. The zero stop turrents are available in Mils.
Size: the smaller objective looks more balanced and mounted with lowest height rings. Aesthetically, it is a cleaner profile and the scope zeroed without needing shims. The tradeoff, of course, being field of vision.
Adjustments: very distinct 'click' feel on the turrets--the Mk4 are slightly squishy.
Turret caps: protective caps cover the turrets and prevent accidental turns when the gun is stored/transported. Tradeoff is smaller turrents.
Weight: mounting this on an already heavy rifle added 2 lbs (mount, rings, scope). This is the side effect of the solid build.
Illumination: the lit reticle is where the Mk4 completely outshines the NF. In bright light and/or close range conditions, the Mk4's lit red reticle is as clear as you want to make it while the NF is only visible when it starts to get real dark. In early evening, the NF at brightest setting is still a bit dim and left me double checking if it was actually on.
Overall: all things considered, it is an awesome scope at the price point and I would recommend over the Mk4. Even though I have absolutely zero regrets (95% satisfied), I will admit I find myself asking if the non-illum US Optics 1.8-10x would have given me the last 5% satisfaction even at a 25% higher cost.

Hope this helps anybody considering this awesome scope for their rifle!
Pros: Clarity, build, zoom range, fine reticle, compact size, adjustment click, turret caps
Cons: Weight, illumination

This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.