To close the loop here, I ended up buying a Vari-X III 1.5-5x and a VX-3 1.5-5x from a forum member, and just ordered a set of Talley QD rings and 2 piece base of Midway. I opp'ed for the low version... hopefully that works. I took the rifle out this past weekend and was ringing steel plates off of sticks at 50 yards with the iron sights and no adjustment, and so I'm going to call them good. Should have one of the scopes on and ready to zero in before next weekend. Thanks to those that replied. Very helpful info as always, and for the opportunity at some nice scopes. I think the ones I landed on should do trick for me: no frills, simple, and effective.....assuming these low rings are enough to keep the scope out of the way of the bolt.