removed by RD

For $250, it's nearly impossible to touch the Bushnell Elite 3-9x40. It's a bit bigger than the others you've mentioned, but the glass is in a different league: think VX3, not VXII.

This assumes that size doesn't matter (had to do it) to you, and that you're OK with a fixed scope.

Are you talking about hitting pocket gophers at 500 yards, or whitetails at 100? The latter will take more scope (and frankly, more $$$) than a 3-9x40, and the former could be done every bit as well with a straight 4x.

If you can give us more details, we can give more specific info.

FC

I have a Leupold Rifleman 3x9x40mm on my 700 in 243,it will shoot 3/4'' to 1'' groups at 100 yards.It cost arourd $260(scope,rings,bases).Scope cost $200.

My opinion, Bushnell Elite for the $$$ in that price range.