1-4xx20mm AR scope - illuminated reticle which Leupold?

[EJSG19]

I've been beating myself up on this decision for some time. I have an Eotech that goes between my slug gun and my AR (only part of that that stinks is the Eotech takes up too much space on the receiver to allow space for my brass catcher to work properly. If your're curious, this is what I use when practicing and brass is a rare commodity: http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/receiver-amp-action-parts/brass-catchers/ar-15-m16-brass-savr-brass-catcher-prod1541.aspx

The other day I for some reason found Leupold's solutions rather appealing.. Not only do I want some magnification, but a scope on the rings, allows the brass catching mount to fit in between the scope rings. However I don't understand what the extra money is necessarily buying you. Leupy makes so many darn models it is somewhat confusing. I have it between the following models, just wondered what your opinions are versus the three, and what if any clarification could be provided as to what model is better and why?

Purpose: Coyote hunting, target practice, close range varmints, general recreation (maybe 3-gun etc). I'm set on the magnification level I think, obviously different zooms are better for different things. It would be nice if I could dual purpose this if I wanted to, on my slug gun/ turkey gun/ hog gun whatever.

1. http://www.leupold.com/hunting-shooting/scopes/mark-ar-riflescopes/mark-ar-mod-1-1-5-4x20mm/ Illuminated (this one is meant for .223 ballistics supposedly. which is great until I use it on a different gun or something.)

2. http://www.leupold.com/hunting-shooting/scopes/hog-riflescopes/vx-r-hog-1-25-4x20mm-30mm/ This one costs more, but I see no apparent reason why on their website. I'm no expert however.

3. http://www.leupold.com/hunting-shooting/scopes/vx-r-riflescopes/vx-r-1-25-4x20mm-includes-metric/ This is close to #2 in price, but again I don't see what makes the scope different substantially from #1 and #2.

What say you? Again, I'm set on the power, and I'm set on the brand, so don't need Vortex recommendations, etc.

[JustinPo]

Remember what you payed for this advice:

#2 and #3 are the same thing but #2 has the special hog hunter reticle.

#1 is based off a a different scope from #2 and #3 but I do not know all the specifics. I would assume it is based off the VX-2 which is a "lesser" scope since it is less expensive. I also don't know how useful the .223 ballistics tweaks are since .223 can change a ton from load to load (think 45gr vs 77gr) but then I have no personal experience with the caliber tweaked scopes so maybe they are the greatest thing ever.

Since #2 and #3 and based off a better scope (VX-R over a VX-2) and the price is the same go with #3.

[TooFewGuns]

I bought the model without the lighted reticle. I went back and forth between the two, and decided that I did not need the red dot. It is a really great scope.

[UnaStamus]

The VX-R is a much higher grade scope. Better glass and coatings, better construction and newer design. That's the difference.

[Dave Timm]

What is your budget? Before buying a leupold I would take a long look at a trijicon tr24. I have the green triangle model and love it and I have beat the crap out of it too. I am hoping in have future they offer a better reticle but it dogs work really well as is. I am just as fast up close as it is the closet to a red dot I have found in a 1-4. I find it is a really nice scope and very well built. Not cheap but I haven't regretted the purchase at all, daytime illumination is a big plus as well.

Of what you listed the VX R is what I would choose,nicer glass.

[Dave Timm]

What is your budget? Before buying a leupold I would take a long look at a trijicon tr24. I have the green triangle model and love it and I have beat the crap out of it too. I am hoping in have future they offer a better reticle but it dogs work really well as is. I am just as fast up close as it is the closet to a red dot I have found in a 1-4. I find it is a really nice scope and very well built. Not cheap but I haven't regretted the purchase at all, daytime illumination is a big plus as well.

Of what you listed the VX R is what I would choose,nicer glass.

[rukwikenuf]

Leupys are nice, and the Mark-AR scopes are very nice for the money, but i'd look at the Trijicon that Dave_Huldra mentioned, as well as one from Vortex, the 1-3x24 PST. Vortex makes a VERY nice scope for the money
http://www.opticsplanet.com/vortex-vipe ... scope.html

[Uffdaphil]

On my main AR forum the Vortex 1-4 PST, VXR Firedot, and TR24 are all well regarded for their price points. I've had two TR24s- amber and red triangle, and like them a lot. Would have gotten green if available. Curious to try a Scope with illuminated German #4 reticle. Seems quicker to pick up the target without the clutter of the upper vertical bar.

SWFA has discounts on demos that can be substantial. Pay attention to the condition - A,B or C. I've gotten "B" and it was like new. Popular scopes go fast so be forewarned.
http://www.samplelist.com/Riflescopes-C3391.aspx