Thanks for all the input, gents. Think I went a little overboard with the 1,000 yd. bit, but I'm giving serious thought to booking an elk hunt in northern New Mexico and the outfitter suggests being able to take bulls at 300+ yds. Considering their kill rate is about 70%, I want to make sure I'm coming home with something. Anyway, like I said, thanks - I've been leaning towards a Weaver 3-9X or a Leupold. (Had a Leupold 2X e.e.r. scope on my S&W #27 years ago and loved it).
Later.