Hi Stone Cold,

I agree that if a scope holds its zero and provides a clear view it doesn't matter. The fly in the soup is that you don't know these factors until after you've spent your money. Which is why I prefer to not put a scope on a rifle if the ? is too big.

Walmart is now selling the Leupold Rifleman series scopes for less than $200. I have not personally used the Rifleman series yet...but I have used Leupolds for over 30 years. And the couple of times I have needed customer service Leupold has been great. So for a little more money you can at least have every confidence in the product's company!

I have used other scopes as well. Currently I own two Nikon Buckmasters in 3X9X40 that I paid $189. @ for them. To this point in time they have worked very well. (Though they are not quite as bright as my Leupold Vari X II's and III's. But they were less expensive as well!)

If your budget is tight....I'd say give the Leupold Rifleman series a try!

Good luck with your decision!