I realize that the OP has already made a decision but I actually stumbled onto this via a google search so it may help others. Something we have to keep in mind when reading through this thread is that not all posters are talking about scopes in the same class as one another. Leupold and Vortex are both full line manufacturers and make some lower end lines as well as some moderate and high price/performance options. It's easy to get off track and make vague comparisons between "Leupolds" and "Vortex" without much regard to specific optics. The original question was centered around a ~$500 scope so talks of Leupold Riflemans or even a standard Vortex are fairly irrelevant. On the other extreme, one could say something to the effect that vortex is far better than Leupold based on the "Ravor HD" offering from Vortex. While most will agree that Leupold can't compete with that product specifically, it also does not mean Vortex is superior to Leupold.
To the original question, I will say that I have no direct experience with that specific product. I am very close to buying one and have done research off and on for many months. Everything suggests that it is fantastic and for the price is tough to beat. I am debating going with the standard or the LR version. Vortex has an industry leading warranty (as does Leupold) and is bringing many great products to market.
