Well guys, after far too much researching and reading forums, I've cut it down to three choices:
Bushnell 4200 3x9 (Ballistic Reticle) @ $300
Bushnell 3200 4x12 Adjustable Objective @ $330
Leupold FXII 6x36 with LR Reticle @ $390
It's at this point I can't seem to make up my mind:
I like the 4200 because it is newer (so I assume it has better coatings), and because of the ballistic reticle. I don't know how fine/coarse the reticle is though, so am not sure how it would do for long range.
I like the 3200 because of the option of an AO, plus the extra power. That being said, I don't know how good the optics are compared to the 4200, and if the 12x option is worth stepping "down" in quality and up in price.
Lastly I like the Leupold because, well, it's a Leupold. (Sorta like the ford/chev arguement. Completely irrational, but it's there). I know Leupy makes decent stuff, but yes they are a bit overpriced. I like this one for the reticle, but it isn't variable.
Has anyone else noticed that buying stuff in the "low-mid" grade is really freaking hard? Buying the expensive toys was easy compared to this...