When I was buying, I looked at NF, Vortex, Nikon, Athlon and some other brands I could afford. I didn't find the glass on the Nikon, Athlon or the other brands to be as good as NF or Vortex. I felt Vortex's Razor was on par with NF. But the Vortex warranty was also a big factor. Vortex's discounts toward LE and Military also helped swing me to Vortex. The discount didn't apply to me since I've never worked in worked in LE or served. But I support companies that do provide a discount. With that said, I know a lot of other companies offer similar discounts to LE and the Military.