I understand and agree that you don't have to spend a thousand bucks to get a decent scope, but you gotta spend A FEW bucks, or you're better off saving your money. I would dismiss the recommendations for low end stuff like BSA or the non-Elite-series Bushnells.
Also, use the search feature because this question has been asked and answered many times, so you'll find many more useful replies than this single thread will likely get.
Another point, take a look at SWFA and OpticsPlanet, they've almost always had the best optics deals that I've found.
I agree with the recommendations for the Bushnell Elites. I have a 3200 tactical mil-dot.......on my Beeman pellet rifle !!! And a 3-9x40 4200 on a mini-14. I got that 4200 from Overstock.com for about $200,delivered !! Take a look there, too.
The Japanese made Weavers have been getting rave reviews for a while, great scopes for the money ( I have two V-series').
Also, warranty and customer service is always a factor. I know Bushnell (elite),Weaver and Leupold all have lifetime warranties and great customer service, unlike others ( like Nikon) that are great scopes, but pretty well known as being difficult if a problem arises.
I think Numrich sometimes has killer optics deals, as well.
Just some rambling thoughts off the top of my head, hope it was remotely useful
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