RE: what can you do if you don't have $$$ for a scope
I have been using a Bushnell Banner $100-120 1.5x4.5x32 wide angle scope on my shotgun for quite a few years now. I have never had a problem with it and have shot many deer with it. I shot a doe at 165 yards and blew the heart in half with this setup(i drove the distance from my blind to the deer with my truck and it was 1/10 of a mile) I have never had this "cheap" scope fail me or hinder my ability to take a deer.
I put a $300.00 Leupold Vari-X II 2x9x40 on my muzzleloader this year and it has been nothing but problems. I am shooting an inch low at 30 yards and the scope will not adjust anymore.
Just my 2 cents.