Thread: What scope to choose (.22 benchrest)?

Guys, I use a CZ457 varmint for rimfire benchrest shooting.
It's a great wee rifle.
But...what scope to choose now. I tried a Leupold 45x45 Competition but it wasn't happy at only 25 yards range (and to be fair...that scope was never designed for that use anyway).
I can get an older new/unused Weaver T36 with the fine cross hair reticle. But at 74 I do worry that maybe I might have trouble seeing those fine cross hairs.
I can't see the scope...it's in Oz. So can't test it out.
It has a 25mm (1") tube, and will focus down to about 15yards.
Price wise...about $NZ900 by the time it gets here.
Or, do I just get a modern vari scope such as an Athlon Argos BTR 10-40? (has a 30mm tube).
Then I can wind the magnification up or down to suit the target conditions (or mirage if I ever shoot outdoors).
Price about $1000-1100, and it too will focus down to 10-15 yards.
I know the Weaver is good, and the China made glass not so good.
But I'm not intending to shoot in the Olympics. I just shoot for my own entertainment and enjoyment...but I also like to shoot well.
I just want a decent sight picture, and a reticle I can see easily.
Any thoughts?
Thanks.