RE: Scope Choices...
Im in the same boat as you Mike, i am in the market for a new scope and want a quality, dependable scope for under 200 dollars.
I have it narrowed down to 2
The Nikon Buckmasters 3x9-40 Matte finish, cost 199.95
The Leupold Rifleman 3x9-40 Matte finish, also 199.95,
They are both from very respectable optics manufactures and have great warranties
I have looked through the Nikon and it is really clear plus they redisgned it for this year with all kinds of new features usually only seen in high dollar scopes. And what more can i say about the Leupold, i mean its a Leupold one of the best scopes on the market for under 200.00
I really dont know which one to choose, but i do know it is going to be one of the two
Hope i helped make your decision a little easier.
Dave