There are some good 3x9x40 scopes around for under 250.00 I have a Leupold 3x9x40 in the VX l model which it 199.00 to 120.00. I have a 3x9x40 Swift scope which was 100.00 Several Bushnell scopes including the 3200 series and trophy series can be had for under 250 for the 3200 and about 100.00 for the trophy model. Check the Burris as well. We are in an age where we have some good options for less money. I also have a leupold Rifleman scope that seems like a good scope. I have not had a chance to try it. The Simmons Aetec may be one of the very best of the value priced scopes at about 130 bucks the critics have nothing but good things to say about them. I have one of those as well and they are terrrific scopes for that price, 5 inches of eye relief and they will stand up to the biggest boomers out there.