Originally Posted by
super_hunt54
NM wasn't saying that the smaller objective size makes for smaller FOV (At least I don't think he was) he kinda just rambled a bit in his explanation. What he was meaning was the smaller objective size scopes take away a couple of the advantages to lower power and fixed scopes. ONE of those advantages is the ability to gather light (light transmission). The smaller OBJ. lens type scopes, while they do have some advantages in normal lighting, are pretty pitiful in low light (dawn, dusk) situations. Just remember one thing when looking at scopes as far as brightness, the smaller the objective lens is, the smaller the exit pupil diameter will be. If you are deer hunting the most common times of seeing deer will be during less than perfect lighting situations. Therefor you will want the brightest scope you can get. NM's point of FOV (field of view) I think was tied into the common belief that your smaller fixed/variable power scopes just have a TENDENCY to have a smaller FOV not necessarily tied to the OBJ. size but in general.
I find NM both quite knowledgeable and helpful. In regards to exit pupil there are many design variables among brands. It's good to be cautious about generalizing of low power scopes for this reason. Again, Leupold for the example, their 3x9x40 scope has an exit pupil of 4.4mm. The 1.5x20 I previously mentioned has an exit pupil of 4mm.
The VX-2 1x4x20 has an exit pupil of 5mm and is also very capable of handling the ranges the OP mentioned. It's also in the price range mentioned. All these exit pupils mentioned are good for low light hunting. I do agree that larger objectives are advantageous but not always necessary or superior based on design differences. Low mounted scopes that provide quick point of aim is also a benefit many hunters should not overlook.