Guys, just a thought on variable "mil-dot" scopes, smaller objectives.
First, the scope WILL be darker than a fixed power equivalent, because it doesn't have a larger objective to compensate for the losses due to the variable power. It MAY be possible they will compensate for this with better quality coatings on the glass, but this is expensive. So there will be more pieces of glass and each one will be more expensive.
Second unless the reticle is designed to change scale with the magnification then its only calibrated for one magnification power. (Most scopes use the rear or second focal plane to locate the reticle which means its easier to manufacture) First focal plane reticles change size as the power is adjusted so that they always represent mil-dot spacing, but these are more expensive to manufacture.
Result the scope HAS to be more expensive and may or may not really be an improvement over the fixed power scopes. But if the demand is there (and it sounds like SWFA thinks it is) then I'm sure they'll make and sell whatever the market demands. Even if it isn't an improvement.