I'm going to keep looking to see If I can get one for around $300 without a scope and see if I can get a Nikon Prostaff 3x9 40/50 with the BDC reticule. I might be able to find one for sub $200, which just squeezes into my budget and is still an accurate rifle and decent scope. I know rings, case and sling will push me over $500 but that's what a budget is for... to control spending not restrict it ... right?

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The Nikon Prostaff is a great choice. Another one to look into is the new Redfield scopes, they're made by leupold.