When it comes to optics this is one area you indeed get what you pay for. The top tier stuff is very expensive but they are that good. The midrange ones are worth looking at. The low priced optics you need to stay away from. The clarity of the optic goes up with the price. Ziess, Schmidt & Bender, Swarovski, and Hensoldt are all top tier glass. Do you have to have tier, only if you can afford it. The Vortex Razor line is a good value. The Ziess contender series also a good value.