RE: Scopes for less than $300
The 3-9 X 40 4200 Elite's are likely the best scope out there at that price point. The only "issue" may revolve around eye relief on certain magnum rifles. I can tell you this, on a 30-06 shooting 180 gr. pills, I had zero issues. You may wish to check out Nikon Buckmasters or Monarch's, Sightron SII Big Sky 3-9 X 42 or even Leupold 4X fixed power scopes. Good luck.