mikld
I'm of the same mindset. I would like one, but am relatively cheap.
I did buy one of these
Maksutov-Cassegrain scopes (I actually got it on sale + a coupon code for $119 with free shipping), I have been able to easily see hits on steel out to 768 yds (haven't used it any further).
It came with 2 eyepieces a 39X and a 100X and 45* Image erector. Even on our 'close' target stand (167 yds) I can easily spot .17 HMR holes on old grey weathered plywood. It really is an amazing scope for the $. It's certainly not 'tactical' but it works very well
It is really made for celestial viewing, but with the 45* image erector, it works as a spotter. A couple of years ago my kids and I were able to spot 4 of Jupiter's moons with it. Just chuck the flimsy tripod, and use something decent.