I wanted a scope just for range work out to 100 yards. The first <$100 scope I got could not me see bullet holes in paper at that distance. My budget being what it was at the time I looked on ebay and found a used Japanese Bushnell for less than $50. For just birding, if you take your time, you should be able to find some decent glass in your range. Include "japan" in your search. One thing I do know, there is a lot of junk glass out there that is less than useless.