For me its probably six of one, half a dozen and two threes between the Zeiss, S&B, Swarovski, Habicht and probably Karl Kaps (although haven't seen on in the flesh) and Nickel, in terms of optical performance, and Meopta are very close behind. I am not though very keen on the looks / ergonomics of the Swaro Z6i, or Zeiss illuminated or the S&B Zenith. I much prefer the looks of the older Swarovski, Zeiss Diatal and S&B - they are much more in keeping with the styling of a classic rifle, which us again what I like. I think the scope should have a really nice rust blued type finish, or given that most are now alloy a nice hard smooth enamel type finish in a blue balck colour. I am not sure I like the crinkle type finish in bluey grey colours now seen on some scopes.