I think (I don't know) that sometimes certain optics just don't work well with certain eyes. I also think (I actually know this because I have seen it) that sometimes people pick up a scope, look through it and make their determination right there in the store without adjusting the scope that it's not a good scope. I think some scopes just make a better marriage with our eyes than others.
A scope is one of those things that has to be used to see if it is really good. Use it in bright daylight. Use it on a cloudy day. Use it 25 minutes before or after sunset. Use it 25 minutes after sunset with the last of the day's light to your back. Unfortunately, until you use one, you really won't know how good it is.
If I were looking for the best $200 scope, I start with a VX-1. Mine (old style) is a good one.
