re: Trying to decide on a new scope any help would be appreciated.

Just as a general rule, the more you spend the better the scope is regardless of make/model.

Better scopes usually transfer light better so they're clearer in low light, have more generous eye relief, the adjustments are more accurate, the glass doesn't fog as easily, etc

Usually anything over $200 will be a good deer rifle scope. It's personal preference after that IMO

People killed piles of deer with junky hardware store scopes for a long time, so a $1000 scope is definitely not necessary, but it sure is nice and will make a difference early in the morning.