I learned the hard way with cheap scopes. Don't buy them, the biggest reason is the point of impact moves. You see this when your groups string. Your groups should be well rounded. Another reason is glass. Good glass cost. I am one who will never tell someone to buy a $1000 scope. Unless your a professional guide, you don't need it. I have shot countless deer with and old cheapo Bushnell Sportview. The Bushnell series are all good. The Muellers are good as well. I own several Bushnells, one Simmons Aetec, a Leupold, and a Mueller. I can't tell a difference in any of them. They are all clear and hold zero. For less money you have two choices if you want clear optics: Bushnell and Mueller
Stay away from anything else unless you have the dough!
Some people would have listed Simmons in this group but the new Master Series is just not proven yet. My .002