I agree about the outdoorlife page comparing apples to oranges but I still think it has value so I suggested it. My favourite aspect is that the testers are pretty merciless in thier criticism.
And Skeeter is right. 3-9x40 is the best choice for a variable. I also like a 1.5-6x40. I rarely get my scope over 6X.
And camo cop is right also. Swift makes a good cheap scope. They also make one of the most popular and beloved binoculars in history, the Swift Audubon. And his choice of Pentax is a wise one.
But I would add another to my list. The sightron sII 3-9x42 without an adjustable objective can be had for under 200 bucks on ebay (new). It is a great scope.