Mounting an optic and locking it down
Just like every other accessory or firearm, there are pros and cons of any tool. The novice attitude towards firearms is that a certain firearm is better than another just because they spend more money on customization. I’ve seen guys with Kimber 45acp that couldn’t hit a plate at 15yds and guys with a Mil-Spec 1911 hit a plate at 100yds. There are always variables when it comes to accuracy and tolerances, but it’s more than likely all about the skill level of the operator.
When you are discussing the topic of which rifle scopes are better than others, the real issue would be about the clarity and reticle type and the durability. I have read so much BS when it comes to rifle scope durability because most of that is from improperly mounted optics. I’d say 75% of the time I pick up a rifle that is not my own, the rifle scopes are canted or the rings are not loctited. If you don’t have a scope that is leveled properly, your hold overs are going to be shooting to the left or right of your target instead of dead on, high or low. You’ll have a heck of a time trying to practice your accuracy because your elevation adjustments will cause your windage to change. Reliability with an optic has more to do with how you mount it and lock it down than the price you paid for it.