Since the 3-9X variable is the most popular variable scope made and sold, you'll generally get a lot more for your money if you go with a good 3-9.
You'll hear a 2.5-10X recommended often. I seriously doubt, if you masked off the name brand and zoom ring, that the advocates of the 2.5 to 10X scopes could tell the difference between it and the 3-9X.
Many folks trend away from 3-9's because they seem too common. (And while we're at it, the folks who like wildcat cartridges which do essentially the same thing as commonly available cartridges are in the same camp, I would think)... but in the end, things get popular and common because they work so darned well. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif
Unless you spend a pretty penny on a 3-12X variable, you're going to be much better off with the 3-9X. I don't know of any 3-12X on the market this side of 1000 dollars which would be worth owning.
Yes, as you suspect the 4 times zoom means more lenses, and will probably mean an adjustable objective for the 12X power.
I have had some wonderfully clear 3-9X scopes which I'd much rather have than some of the high mag variables I've seen.
Spend 250 dollars on a 3-9, then see how it's resolution and functionality compare to a 3-12 of even 400 bucks or so... I'll wager the 3-9 has better resolution, and will last longer.
Dan
