https://www.leupold.com/product-series/vx-freedom
The VX-1 and VX-2 Lines are now discontinued on Leupold's website. I've got a Vari-xII and a vx-2 that I like. To me it looks like a cross between the two with a reasonable price point.
I recently made made this decision and went with the m&p compact. I'm still waiting on my can to be approved , but I went with it due the reason you mentioned. Shorter barrel and the ability to run bulk pack Ammo and still keep things quiet.
I would eventually like to get a MKIV, but I didn't...
I agree , I felt very lucky . I had searched high and low for a reasonably priced take off , but could not find one . Strangely enough the barrel more or less came to me via a co-worker who was in the market for an aftermarket barrel. I was able to purchase for a good price and he was able to...