[vespine]

I had to make the same decision a few months ago and I went the LB. I drive a stationwagon so I didn't think portability was a factor, but since I bought it I've already been on a road trip in my friends VW Golf, I would not have been able to bring a GSO along.

Also I have been contemplating buying a scope for a while so the $500 wasn't a MAJOR factor, I was willing to wait a bit longer and spend a bit more to get something I would be happy with.

I also can't deny that "looks" were on the list of reasons to get a LB.

Last but not least, I live in a share house and it is fine at the moment, but it isn't impossible that I might move out at some stage and live in an apartment. If that happens I won't be able to keep a 12" scope, I thought the LB would have better resale value. You may not live in a share house but resale value still might be a factor, depending on how confident you are you'll never need to part with it.