I feel you pain, lol. We get absolutely raked over the coals up here. I have been pondering the purchase of a Forster Co-Ax press and the price difference is ridiculous.
As far as, the scope choice. I like my Monarch with BDC but would likely look to the mildot version, no real advantage to the cicles of the BDC in my opinion. Would also choose the Nikon over the VX-2. VX-3 or higher in the Leupy is my rule. Maybe take a look at the Vortex options (good scopes for the money, great warranty). Not a Bushy fan so I won't comment (bad experience).