Robb - As it'll be your first deer stalking rifle, I advise keeping it simple. Fixed mag either 6X42 or 7X50 being the ideal. Less to think about than variable & more reliable too (less to go wrong). A nice extra would be an illuminated reticle (dot or small centre cross) but it isn't essential.
I've been there with both variables & large diameter objectives -- Variables are great for playing with on the range - more hassle in the woods taking your attention from the hunting. 56mm objectives are heavy, unbalance the rifle & make stock fitting more difficult to ensure proper eye alignment & cheek to woodwork contact for the different shooting positions you will find yourself in.
Within your budget you will find top quality scopes second hand that are as good as new. If you buy one of the top makers - In descending preference (to me) Zeiss, Swarovski, Kahles, Nickel, S&B, Minox, Pecar, IOR or Meopta you should get a lifetime of use plus they can be serviced by the manufacturers or one of the specialist repairers that there around should it be necessary.
Of the newer brands to the marketplace one stands out - Vortex. They have a massive range to choose from & a lifetime no quibble warranty.
Ian
I've been there with both variables & large diameter objectives -- Variables are great for playing with on the range - more hassle in the woods taking your attention from the hunting. 56mm objectives are heavy, unbalance the rifle & make stock fitting more difficult to ensure proper eye alignment & cheek to woodwork contact for the different shooting positions you will find yourself in.
Within your budget you will find top quality scopes second hand that are as good as new. If you buy one of the top makers - In descending preference (to me) Zeiss, Swarovski, Kahles, Nickel, S&B, Minox, Pecar, IOR or Meopta you should get a lifetime of use plus they can be serviced by the manufacturers or one of the specialist repairers that there around should it be necessary.
Of the newer brands to the marketplace one stands out - Vortex. They have a massive range to choose from & a lifetime no quibble warranty.
Ian