I'm considering this as well. At the distances you're mentioning, have you considered a set of binoculars? Broader range of uses than a spotting scope & could be argued as a shrewder purchase. Failing that, sounds like your criteria are similar to mine - not in the market for a Swarovski but don't want to just throw my money away either. I'm toying with the Bushnell Trophy XLT with maybe an upgrade to the tripod (reviews point out the stock tripod is a bit dodgy).