Decent scope but has drawbacks - Nikon 4-12x40mm ProStaff Rifle Scopes - Waterproof Hunting Scope

I recommend this scope for target shooting but not for hunting. I rated the scope three stars because of the very small field of view, the length and weight. For hunting groundhogs, prairie dogs, etc. it would be fine but for animals that may be moving it will make locating them in the scope more difficult than it needs to be. I intended to replace a 30+ year old Bauch and Lomb 4-12x40 with this scope. After receiving and comparing to the old scope I immediately noticed the restricted field of view and greater overall length. While researching the scopes in my price range(Retired now and can't afford Leupold VXII's and VXIII's) the Vortex Diamond Back 4-12x40 appeared to have a much larger field of view while being a couple inches shorter and lighter. It was about the same price and has great reviews. I kept the Nikon and ordered the Vortex for comparison. The Vortex is superior in every way in a side by side comparison. Zeroed the rifle with the Vortex today(Jan20,2015) and while I had it on the sand bags I compared it to the Nikon, a Leupold VXII 3-9x40 and a Leupold VXIII 3.5-10x50. The Nikon is not bad in clarity and brightness but the larger field of view with the Vortex makes it seem much brighter and sharper. The Vortex is much clearer and brighter than the Leupold VXII(an older scope) and the equal of the VXIII. Again, these results were logged while looking through each scope side by side. I feel certain that the Nikon Monarch scopes would equal the Vortex but at a much higher cost. Since Optics Planet is offering free return on scopes, do yourself a favor and compare the Vortex Diamond Back to the Pro Staff. You will be blown away at the difference. I have never owned a Vortex product before so I can't comment on durability but unless I win the lottery this will be my first choice going forward.