Ive just bought a vortex (Razor HD) 5-20x50 for pretty much the same reasons as you've stated (bit of range work, bit of stalking) and have to say I'm mightily impressed. very clear, good at low light, target turrets, zero stop etc etc and a great guarantee. My .243 stalking rifle has an 8x56 zeiss permanently attached and I love that, fantastic piece of glass, strong and utterly reliable, but its worth taking a look at the vortex for what you are thinking of IMO. I think the Viper PST falls nicely into your price bracket, I would have got one myself but got lucky with the razorHD
good luck
cheers
Andy