RE: Bushnell, Simmons or Redhead (bass pro shop brand)
You may wish to consider something other than a 3-9 (not sure why you would ever need 9X for a short range weapon). Anyway, I'd look at a fixed power 4X or similar. There are many in your price range. You can even get a Leupy FXII 4X33 for around $250 + or -. Good luck.