Icelander, as Stubblejumper suggested the Bushnell 3200 Elite is a great scope & probably the best in it's porice range. I own a Bushnell 3200 Elite 3x9x40 and a 4200 Elite 3x9x50, they have been and continue to be great scopes. The 3200 is pretty hard to beat for it's price range and is available in a 50mm if you require or want. As I stated I love 50MM in fact my 3200 is rarely used, due to the 40mm objective. Now for those who never used 50mm then the 40MM 3200 will be all you'll ever need. The 3200 fits in your price range and personally would be as low as I would go with bushnell. All though I know many satisfied custmers with banner, trophy and elite's so it really depends on your wants.

Nikon, I can't personally comment on, this sight I have heard and seen many happy customers with Nikon. Pentax Scopes don't know, I do have their binos and they have a great CS department, quick and fast.

I would probably stick with Bushnell or Nikon. does Nikon have a lifetime warranty, b/c Bushnell does? That might help in your decision.