The 1-4 Leupold is my least liked scope I've owned. The 1.5-5 is a better option especially for low light. Though the 1-6 is is a much better option even at twice the price.
I'm sure when you get down to it the vx3 model would have a little better glass than the vxr, but it sounds like the OP is looking for illumination of some kind.
I like nice glass, but there are other features to consider..
