RE: Scope advice for a newbie.
I will second the Bushnell Banner Dusk To Dawn scopes. I have the 3x9x40 on my Encore and love it. It gathers a lot of light. When it is too dark for me to see with my eyes, I can make out things when looking through the scope. And it can take the punishment of 150 grain loads without any problems. For only $80, it is one of the best investments I have made.