for red dots, many people here have had success with the Primary Arms clones. The company seems to have great warranty practices in the event anything isn't working, unlike most. I would probably say that is the best red dot under $100 range.
Primary Arms - For Optics Accessories & More | Weapons Optics | Firearm Supplies
For scopes, I'd probably spend $200 and get a riflescope instead of one of the 'tactical compact' ncstar ones. They may work but are a gamble.
This 2-7 viper is probably the best scope under $200 right now, the next closest thing to it would be about $400.
SWFA Vortex Rifle Scopes Vortex Viper Rifle Scopes
The 3-9x40 diamondback won that comparison i posted earlier for best scope under $200, they retail $189 at most stores.
http://swfa.com/Vortex-Diamondback-Rifle-Scopes-C1409.aspx
Or if you only want to spend $99,
Vortex 6-24x50 Crossfire Rifle Scope
not nearly on the same level of the viper and diamondback line, even vortex will tell you this. but at 6-24x it can providefor some long distance magnification, even considered overkill for anything but target shooting. you wont find that kind of acceptable magnification at that price from other companys. vortex also tells us this is a cheaper made in china line, but it wouldnt be possible to bring us this price if it were made anywhere else. Even on their cheapest line they still warranty it in full 100%.
I would go with whatever best suits your application, they will all work it just depends how you will use it. red dots for short range ~50 yds, and then you got all the riflescopes and varying magnifications depending on how far out you want to shoot. Or buy one and get the other sometime down the road, I plan to have one of everything eventually.
I'm a happy camper. I like spending lots of money when I gots it and when I can justify it.. it's not always neccesary.
