I would take the older Vari x III or VX 3 over the Freedom. I believe they are more reliable and made to last. They have cheapened up so much on the newer scopes, reliability is a problem. The older scopes are rock solid.
I agree, even the older Vari-X IIc is better. If you have to have Leupold, just for the name. For a real good user scope, I'd look at the simple, yet effective Burris FFII 3-9x40 with ballistic plex reticle. Teach them right with a scope that has useable hash marks for reaching further out. Excellent for hunting. JMHO