Bushnell makes some good entry level scopes in that price range. Their Banner, Dusk to Dawn, trophy, and sportsman scopes should be okay. I would go with a straight 4x scope so you get the best bang for your buck.

I'd go with either a bushnell or leopould, almost every company out there makes a reasonably priced 3-9x if you need something with more power then a 4x for most deer hunting this probably won't happen.

3-9X40 seems to be the standard for off the shelf and should suit you well. Also agree with the Bushnell series. For that price range they're probably the best choice. Leupold is better, but you might have trouble finding one in that price range (certainly here you will).

I have a Banner on my .308 and a Trophy on my muzzleloader. They work fine.

You are not going to find a Leupold in that price range.

I agree... maybe a second hand one but even then probably not. They hold on to their value.

You can find a Pentax game seeker for about 120 $

I've got a name that's somewhat new in the market,... I don't personally own one,... but a friend of mine does. If you can scramble up another $50 towards your purchase I'd recommend this one:

http://www.muelleroptics.com/products/MU3940IGR.html

For the price,.. it's a really nice scope & I haven't seen one that compares with it's clarity. PLUS,.... it comes with a full limited LIFETIME warranty.

Go with Nikon Monarch or Leupold MK2 or MK3 I put a Nikon on my Sako 243 and I LOVE IT! GO WITH 3-9X40

For $120.00 or LESS he couldn't touch either one of those.

Even the scope I mentioned above he'd need to scrape up another $50.00.

I realize that BOTH of the scopes you mentioned are darn good ones,.. I even own one of the Leupold VXL long distance scopes,. but for me to recomend that one,... he' need almost 8 times what he's willing to spend.

For the $170.00 plus tax he couldn't find ANYTHING comparable in clairity and crispness in any other lineup for that price.