I like a scope with a maximum magnification of 12x to 15x for a general purpose varmint rifle. For coyotes, I don't want more than 4x for a minimum magnification. As far as a much cheaper scope being as good as the high end scopes, they aren't as good but that doesn't mean that they won't get the job done. In your price range, I would look at the Nikon Monarch line.
