RE: $150 scope
There are a few very good 150 dollar scopes. The Nikon 3x9 Pro staff is one of them. The Simmons Aetec may be the best scope around under 250.00. The Bushnell Trophy models run about 100-125 dollars and sre good dependable scopes. The VX l Leupold is about 200.00 and is every bit the scope that the more costy Leupolds are. Reliability wise that is. I have had very good service from the 120 dollar Swift scopes as well. In a straight power, you can't beat the Simmons Pro-hunter for about 70.00. I would put this scope (tough and reliable wise ) against anything under 300.00. Its also clear as hell and gathers light with the best of them. I have one on my 7600 30-06 and am tickled to death with it.