scope recomendation

[m_miller]

My girl friend gave me a new 12" .223 barrel for my encore for my birthday.  I am now looking for a scope for Ohio ground hog hunting in the 100+ yard ranges.  So far these are what i have narrowed it down to.

http://www.riflescopes.com/products/200306/burris_3-12x32_handgun_scope.htm

http://www.riflescopes.com/products/6567/nikon_2.5-8x28_monarch_ucc_handgun_scope.htm

Kind of leaning to this one
http://www.riflescopes.com/products/849428/weaver_2.5-8x28_classic_handgun_scope.htm

Any other suggestions under $300 or at least not much over?

Also what accurate ranges should i expect out of this gun with factory ammo?

Thank you very much for any and all help in advance.

[Redhawk1]

I had a contender in .223 with a Weaver 2.5 X 8 X 28mm, and I was able to hit golfball at 200 yards with it.  

[flyfisher]

I have a 3-12x Burris that sits atop my .222 Rem.  (14").  I use it solely for grounghog hunting and absolutely love it.  I don't know of any other brand of handgun scope that goes to 12 power, and find it really useful for long distance whistle pigs and sighting in at the range.