In that price range I would go with a Leupold Rilfeman or a Tasco World-Class 3-9x50 if you can find one.

leupold rifleman 3x9 50 270$ ish cabelas

Walmart can probably get it for a little less than that depends on tax vs shipping

It's been my experience that a hunter should buy the best optics he or she can afford. Having said that, let me add that you are generally better off buying "top of the line" products from one brand, than a lesser quality model, from a more expensive brand name! For the average hunter, you really can't go wrong with Simmons or Bushnell though. About the last brand I'd consider is Tasco, for a hunter who plans to be in the woods of Maine, where snow and moisture are a guarantee, not a possibility! There's been some great deals online lately too. Here's one supply house worth checking out: http://www.natchezss.com/
I've prchased from them and gotten excellent service and goods.
-Jim

Luppy, lifetime warrenty $200.00 for a VarX I. Last you your lifetime. Customer service is outstanding.

Another vote for Leupold.

Leupold has my vote as well.

I've been a Leupolder most of my years.
My last 2 puchases were a Burris fullfield 3x-9x 40 and a Bushnell 3200 10x 40. Both are very nice and with in the $200 range.
I don't think the quality of the Leupold is any less. They are fine scopes but, they have some very good competition in the price range you are looking at.
I have never had to send a scope back to the manufacturer. Warrantee is another factor to look at. Leupold, Burris and Bushnell (3200) all stand behind there products.

I used to be a leupold man, but Ive gone to Burris, there 100 o/o made in the USA. I have 2 3.5x10 50mm, I really love.

I want to say thanks for all the replies. Also, does anyone have an opinion on the 3x9x40mm Nikon Buckmasters? A good friend of mine has one and he has nothing but good things to say but he is one of those guys that whatever he owns is always the BEST.