What's a good brand, well there are some fantastic optics offered these days. It all depends on how much you are willing to spend. As for the power of the scope, I used to think a 1.5 - 4.5 X 32mm would be all that I need, but I have changed that opinion when I started range work and really would appreciate the stronger power for checking things and long range shooting. I think if I had to do it all over again I would get a 2-7 or a 3-9 power. They always say, get as good of optics as you can afford. Personally I went with a Bushnell Dusk to Dawn Scope and am very happy with the clearity, and light gathering of the scope. The low cost was also another nice factor for me....