The best scope for $1500 really depends on how you plan to buy. If you only buy new from a store it kind of corners you. If your more flexible and willing to buy used or from a personal seller you will get a better deal. With that being said luck has something to do with it. I got a steiner m5xi 3-15-50 for $1650 on ebay. It was an auction sale with no reserve. The seller was a business and had tons of scopes at buy now prices which were on par with your average stores. For some reason they auctioned off the scope and I got lucky. It was over a year ago and that scope still sells for $2895. give or take if you can get one on sale or for a few bucks cheaper.
I think you have a pretty good list. I would add the NF nxs line. Good prices in optics for sale section. Good luck to your friend and advise him if he can spend just a little to get what he wants it might be worth it in the long run.
