You can find an scope of quality that will serve you well for years to come for $200...it isn't easy, but it can be done. I have had good luck with the Nikon Pro-staff scopes and a 3-9xc40 can be had for under $200...but a better option in my opinion is Swift optics...I have had several of their scopes...the one on my .270 has been on it since I bought the rifle 20 years ago and has never caused me grief. I also have one on a 223 and a 7mm Mag and recently put a 6-24x50AO on a new 308 target rifle. A 3-9x40 Swift Premier can be had for under $200 from places like OpticsPlanet.com and SWFA.com...don't forget rings and bases though (I am not a big fan of the factory rings Ruger includes).