Variable ND filters-disappointment? How can they even sell them?

Golf007sd

This video highlights what I was referring to:

autofocus

So I had to get the Fader ND out and play with it. Indeed it will capture a "X" when used at maximum setting and more so in bright sun. However, when used sparingly it will assist a larger aperture for limited DoF. I shot this with my D800 ISO 200 1/60sec, Sigma 35 Art @2.2
Let me add, this is the Jpeg right out of camera.