I have the 1-6 VX-6, while not the VX-R I suspect some similarities. The reticle on this 1-6 is thick, covering at least 1 MOA, it is a good hunting reticle but not so good on targets. The firedot is good as well. Mine is brand new and it dials "OK" as well.
my friend has a 1.5-4 VXR, it is not a bad scope shooting with it, its a tad less clear/resolution with more edge distortion.
I have wasted a lot of money on variable scopes, (thought not as much as others) chasing optical clarity, and low light capability. In the end I have broken them all at least once
. I had given up on Leupold until I tried the new VX-6.
Convinced at this time that fixed power, NF, or maybe SWFA models provide more of what I am interested in at this phase in my shooting life. Look at the SWFA 3-9 for your AR.