And here in lies the problem with their new naming system! Its not totally clear which scopes get which optics and parts!
Some Vari-III's have always been available with 30mm tubes, its model specific. (look at the variIII 4.5-14 as an example).
The only PR that was/is a Vari-II is the 3-9x, the 3.5-10x PR is/was a vari-III. The PR 4.5-14x is a Vari-III in matte, target knobs and mil-dots (as well as other reticules). It does have the 30mm tube and side focus and is a fantastic scope. See specs and details here:
http://www.leupold.com/products/tactical_products/Mark_4_4_5-14x40mm_PR_LR.htm
Now, to further confuse us (the users), this particular model is called the PR 4.5-14x40mm
Long Range (confused yet? as the LR line of Mk4 scopes stands for Long Range!!)
This model was introduced in january of this year.
So everyone is caught up:
All leupold Tactical scopes are called "Mark 4" now.
Under the Mark 4 line of scopes, you have the
PR - Precision Rifle
LR/T - Long Range/Tactical
MR/T - Mid Range/Tactical
CQ/T - Close Quarters/Tactical
Under the PR line, there is one V-II and two V-III models. The LR/T has several V-III"s and the old Mark 4's. The MR/T has a several versions of a new 3-9x36mm. The CQ/T has their really slick 1-3x14mm thats great for CQB.
Hope everyone isn't totally confused
MEL