Just my opinion but I think the VX II is the best value scope offered in the Leupold line up. Why?? the VX II is the same optically as the Vari X III and IME & O it is no slouch. In my comparison I found the VX III to be disappointing and not worth the extra $. The power difference in all reality is meager so the 3x9x40 will be just fine for all your needs.