I cant make a decision in all my research. I wish weaver still made a 4x38. I think the fixed scopes hold more light at the critical time and leupold no longer makes a 4x33, 4x36 if they did nor the 6x36 or the nikon 4x40. No quality fixed scopes with bigger objectives anymore. I would buy the leupold 6x42 in a heartbeart but its overpriced. I hunt two properties. One within the edge of an open field. The other side of the state, my feeder is about 8-10 yards away. heavy dark canopy, very wooded. I HAD a simmons aetec 2.8-1-x44 and it cost me a deer at the wooded spot. Even at 2.8. Horrible choice and my fault. I have been researching reviews for a 22 mag scope as well (short range calling) and my knight. My old fixed 6x40 went kaput and i have not found the right scope. Wooded spot, all shots are likely under 30 yards. My dad and i put all of our scopes together at dusk one night with the lights off and the window open looking 100 yards out. Used konus 2-7x33, unknown 3-9x40 konus 6x40, old nikon monarch 1-4x20. The cheap 6x40 was the clear winner and only usable scope well beyond shooting light. I did the same test again at my home with a nikon prostaff 2-7x32, weaver 2-7x28, bsa 3-9x32 and an old bsa 4x32 deerhunter. The 4x32 was the winner but not ideal. I got it on a new cz 22 mag for woods calling and i thought it was lousy when i went calling at dusk. Think I decided on a leupold 3-9 rimfire on the 22.
So im not sure which direction to go. Wish i could barrow a bunch and head to the woods to see which one. So im looking at the Vortex Diamondback 1.75-5x32 ( super bright in store/both eyes open all through dial), leupold 2.5x20, 1-4x20, 4x28 rimfire, 3-9 x40 or 50 with hunt plex. Vortex 3-9x 40/50 with lighted dot. Hawke 4x32 (dont know anything about hawke) or swift 4x40 (only 3in eye relief mixed reviews from old/new owners). Sightmark 4x32 lighted reticle. Not sure about the small objectives but lots of 2.5 and 1-4s in use for shotgun. So whats your experience or go to in these tight dark spots. thanks