It's 2015.

There is no reason to shoot a fixed power scope

If you don't need a lot of magnification turn it down

I completely disagree. I'm just getting into fixed power scopes. 9-10 ounces and durable are a couple of great reasons.

What benefit does shooting a fixed offer over a variable anymore?

They have a place for me on the Encore rifle. Not much of an argument I guess but I can get quality glass for $300 on several different barrels. Also I'm trying to keep them all lite weight so the previous mentioned 9-10 oz can't be beat in a quality variable. All shots taken will be limited to 200 yards so I don't really see a limit in the 4x or 6x. If I'm going to hunt somewhere longer shots are even possible I have rifles for that. Although I don't agree with any of the long range accuracy claims for low power fixed scopes vs higher power variables.

Mostly I do not intend to have 5-6 barrels with $600-1500 glass on them sitting in my safe like my other rifles. I know few people willing to piss away that kind of money. And I dang sure won't put a low quality scope on anything to save $$. A $300 fixed beats a $150 variable everyday in my book.

Of course a $300 fixed beats a $150 variable.

Why not buy a $300 variable?

I'm only assuming here but I would think the $300 fixed has better glass and coatings than a $300 variable. At least according to Leupolds website they do. This is not really worth arguing to me. Let's call you right and I'll just have fun with my new project.