I'll throw another scope in the mix. I considered the Vari-X scopes, but ended up mounting a Bushnell Elite 3x9x50 with a fiirefly reticle on my Encore. Our shotgun season opened today, and I have a Bushnell Whitetail 3x9x40 mounted on my shotgun. It will be replaced by next season with the Elite. After hunting our October seasons with the Encore the Whitetail has to go. The firefly reticle is helpfull but with the light gathering of the 50mm objective I'm not convinced it is needed. I hunt a tax ditch which is definately lighter than the woods at first and last shooting times, but I still think the 50 would be bright enough.