Take a look through one and it will become pretty obvious that they are clearer and brighter. Not saying you need one or that your old scope isn't up to the task but to say R&D these days is nothing but marketing hype is pure BS. Glass is getting better. Whether you need it or want it is certainly up to you but make no mistake, the new stuff is better. We've seen some other great innovations like increased zoom range. There's lots going on in the optics business to make them better.