My sub $300 picks would be:
Leupold Mojave 8x32
Cabelas Pro Guide 8x32 (same as above)
Sightron Blue Sky 8x32
Carson ED 8x32
I would be fine running any of the above though my preference is a 42mm objective. These days most 8x42 roofs are pretty compact so I'd trade the(marginal) increase in bulk for a larger exit pupil.
I have the Mojave BX-3 8x42 and liked them so much that I bought the Cabela's Guide 8x32 when they went on closeout. The BX-3s were recently discontinued, so you may find them on steep discounts. The BX-4 is the "HD" version. I didn't prefer them enough to spend the extra money, but they were great. I liked the BX-3s a lot more than the Diamondbacks I was omparing them against. I also really like the center adjustments vs the standard on the right eyepiece.
My 32mm Mojave's have a larger FOV than my 42mm Mojave's. I cannot tell a significant difference with definition at last light. The 42s have a much better eye relief. Doing things over again, I'd probably skip the 42s and just get 32s. I have some 10x42 Alpen Wings that I use when I'm planning on having them on a tripod.
