A variable scope has more glass and moving parts, a fixed X scope "should" be brighter all things equal. At one time, I was a fixed X fan having the following on my rifles but have since gone to variables as they better fit my hunting needs. When boots on the ground, I always keep my variables on the lowest power, once "hunting" I set to 6 or 7X and adjust based on conditions.
Leupold 6x36 (the only scope I ever bought used and it was a good one)
Leupold 6x42 (several)
S&B 6x42 (two)
Swarovski 8x56 PH (super bright in low light)
All have gone to other shooters, some from this forum, I just prefer variables these days, mostly Leupold 5HDs.
