The only variable scopes I really liked, were the 1.5 to 4X or 5X Leupolds and Redfields. Anything over 4X was really not needed for big game shooting within the range I limit myself - under 300yards.

For straight big game and grouse shooting with my .458, a steel tubed 2-1/2X Weaver was always a good scope. Light weight, small unobtrusive and all the power needed for shooting any NA big game.