Yes, the Vipers are pretty much good mid level. Not spectacular. Not bad....comparing the Vortex Vipers to the Rangers and I cannot say that there is a lot of difference. Much less than I expected
The trifecta of $400, light, and crisp, is also the reason for my first recommendation of the Swift Eaglet 7x36. It is all of those. It is also the closest thing image wise I have experience with in the mid price range that can challenge the Promaster.