So hard to decide sometimes. The monarch isn't a bad scope for the money. I'd say you get what you pay for there. I think the vortex gives you more for your dollar. The 30mm tube actually does nothing for light transmission, it gives more room for internal adjustment, something to consider if you're planning on dialing in longer shots. More range of adjustment keeps you more in the middle of your scope's workings rather than straining on the fringe. Personally, having owned several monarchs and using Nikon monarch x binos for years as a guide I think Nikon "holds back" so to speak, meaning that while they make better glass, they don't really use it on the monarch. Then again, better glass... more $. As far as reticles go, I agree with other posts. Good luck!