I'm a big fan of low powered variables and smallish scopes in general. It's not mentioned what firearm/chambering the OP intends to mount his scope on, or the combo's purpose, that might matter some. I have noticed in recent months that the interest in low powered variables has jumped tremendously, and I think that the reason is the proliferation of AR pattern rifles. Not so long ago, I could get a used 1-4x Leupold on ebay for about $200, tax and shipping included. Not so today. The Weaver 1-3x is available thru Natchez Shooter supply, I do not have any experience with that scope, but they sell for about $140.
In keeping with the concept of neat and tidy (and light) I do not really see the need for a 30mm tube on any of my rifles. I realize the optical advantages, but my experience is that I can see just fine with a 1" tube, thanks anyhow.
I'm currently running 3 small Leupolds, a pair of 1-4x, Vari-Xiic's, and one Vari-Xiii that is a 1.5-5x. The two 1-4x numbers are on moderate caliber carbines (.44 and 7.62x39) and have the chunky German #1 reticle installed by Leupold. The 1.5-5x with a heavy duplex was on my AR carbine, but I pulled it off and screwed it on a turkey shotgun and ended up liking the application so much it probably will remain there (see below). The heavy duplex and works on the shotgun, I really didn't care for it on the .223 carbine anyhow as it was too coarse for precision shooting to suit me. I am in the market for another small tube Leupold, but am astounded by the prices they are bringing, used, on ebay.
Leupold has a new line of scopes called the "Freedom" series that go for about $200 bucks for a 1.5-5x. The "hog plex" is a little busy for me, but they come in duplex as well. There is also the Leupold 2.5x fixed power scope, either an older M8 or the newer FX lines. They are truly tiny and tough and sell for $275 or so and I have thought about putting that on a turkey shotgun. I'd send the 1-5x back to Leupold for a fine duplex and put it back on the carbine in that case.