best spoting scope for under 500.00

[Jason]

The Vortex line is affordable and I have seen tons of rave reviews on their glass for years

I agree.

For $549 its really hard to beat the Vortex Viper HD 15-45x65 spotting scope, not the lightest but not the heaviest in the 65mm catagory, the glass is better than any other spotting scope in that price range.

[link]

I just picked up a Leupold 12-40x60 HD, used for $800. It was the one I was looking for, and it is in brand new condition, the entire "kit". I know if I'd shopped around I probably could have gotten one for a little less, but like I said, this one is flawless and was the one I was looking for. Saved maybe 500 or so over a new one.
Still saving up for the big glass, but this is a good scope for the money.

[addicted]

http://www.camofire.com/

prostaff 16-48x65 is on sale for about 2 more hours.  even with swfa's 100$ off this is still a better deal.