explain objective size to me again

[Dom]

I'll add that for most 'daylight' areas, yes, a 40 or 42mm objective is quite adequate; however, you will also have a larger field of view with a 50mm objective, as well as brighter picture as light fades. As Jack notes, the illuminated reticle has nothing to do with it's light gathering ability. I'll add though that I love 'em cause I hunt in low, make that very low light, and if you can't adjust the brightness down to almost nothing than you don't want one.

That 24mm is really small for an objective on a variable scope that goes to 10x -- maybe it's intended more for bench and not hunting? I'd recommend you visit a reputable optics store, look thru a few, to get a feel for what you can see. Granted, it's not like taking them out hunting, but I'd be leery of a 24mm for hunting, Waidmannsheil, Dom.

P.S. I also have a Vari X III 3.5-14 x 40 IR, or is it 4.5-14x40, can't remember, but you might want to put that on your WSM? That's a real decent scope. Kinda depends on how it looks on the rifle intended for and your personal tastes.