I've had good luck with the Burris FF2 and the Bushnell Trophy line as far as economical scope choices go. Both will run from $125-200 depending on options. I really like the 1.5X6 Bush Trophy "Euro" with a heavy "German" reticle I got for the wife's rifle. It's on a 30mm tube and is exceptionally bright, holds zero, and tracks reliably. Going on 3 years with no issues, but haven't really abused it either. I don't think they make this model anymore though, tried to find another one and came up empty on optics planet. I've put 2 different Burris FF2s through hell and back and they've taken it with a smile. Nice point on them is the European style magnification adjustment. You turn the whole back of the scope rather than a skinny little ring, real handy with winter gloves on.
12x is unnecessary unless you are doing extreme range work and/or varmints. IMHO, 9x is too much for deer. I rarely dial mine above 4x, usually to look at a non-deer critter if I do. Unfortunately, the market has chosen high magnification over practical hunting magnification...everybody's a #%$^ sniper...so as above, you will find the most bang for your buck in a 3x9. If you find a Burris FF2, Leupold Vari-x1 or Nikon in 2x7, jump on it.