my first inclination is the 2-12. it has less magnification and more magnification which are both pluses. it has the 50mm which is a plus. it is heavier which is not that much of a concern. 500 cost difference

There’s about a millionaire things we need to know before anybody can give you a recommendation.

500 cost difference, I'd take the 2.5-10 and call it a day, and I don't even know what you're doing. But 10x to 12x on the top end and 2x to 2.5x on the bottom end are both nearly indiscernible. 50 vs 42 isn't a huge deal at those magnification levels.

100% hunting rifle

for sitting in a blind mostly but am wanting a mulie or elk hunting gun/optic combo

I plan on simple IHR reticle
I think yall are right they are both adequate especially when buying premium brands known for superior glass. I have a 3-9X40 now but I really prefer hunting on the lowest optic level a lot so the 2 power seems really attractive.

I’d prefer a 2-12x42. Leupold makes a VX-6HD with those dimensions. Between your two options I’d go 2.5-10x42.