I like 50mm objectives. I have 2.5x10x50 Luepold Varix III, 3.5x10x50 Burris Sign Series, 4200 Bushnell Elite 3x9x50 and 3200 3 x 9 x 40. 4-12 or 3-9 would be fine. If you need some extra light a 50 mm will give you about 2% more light gathering capability. Doesn't sound like a lot, until you actually compare it. My 50's have anchored animals in fog, snow and low light that my 40 wouldn't have been so easy. I say 50 if you hunt low lights, etc. If not then use the extra to upgrade the quality of scope.

I like Bushnell for the low to mid (the 3200 and 4200 are probably one of the best in their price ranges, with lifetime warranties), Burris & Loopy to the mid to high. Some say Nikon, but we don't have them around my neck of the woods, so I can't comment(however I love their camera's so if they are close to that then they would be just fine). If money is little of a concern than go german that would be the high to elite end of the spectrum.
Mid priced to you maybe highor low to me, so without $ amount I am unsure of what you want to spend.

A scope is a very personal item, I suggest you get your hands on as many as you can in your price range. Research the particular models for features, coatings, warranty, etc. Then what fits the budget, needs and looks the best to you buy.

Optics are one thing you generally get what you pay for. If you buy a 100 scope don't expect it to behave like a 1000 scope. It wwill work and maybe suitable but it is 100 for a reason. I suggest buy as much of as scope as you can afford, a good scope will offer you years of service and will return itself to you. Also put good quality mounts (rings and bases) on the scope.

Edited by - skeeter 7MM on 10/29/2002 00:07:00