Don't know of a non-chinese 1-6 LPVO consistently available for <$500, except Burris and I'm not a Burris fan.
The Zeiss 1-4 is Japanese and a solid scope. Eurooptic is the best deal I know of. I have one and for the price it is tough to beat. Another option would be to shop around for a Vortex Viper G2 1-6 (Philippines). They can very occasionally be found new for under $500 with coupons, etc. I think the quality of the Zeiss is slightly above the Viper, but I like the Vipers illumination (fiber optic vs. reflective), reticle, capped lo pro turrets, and mag range better than the Zeiss.
Steiners are nice (don't own one but have shot with one several times) but overpriced in my opinion.
Another great option (not illuminated , true 1x, or 30mm) Vortex Razor 1.5-8 HD LH sub $500 at eurooptic. Light, Japanese, great quality all around.
Already been asked, but what is your anticipated use? Competition/training, HD/SHTF, hunting?
