I figured this would be the best board to ask.

I'm looking to buy a spotting scope.

Budget around 400-500bucks, maybe 600 if it's spectacular. It's my first so I don't need the baddest motherfucker there is, but I don't want the 20dollar plastic toy either.

Is there a sweet-spot for spotting scope prices?

I've been a photographer for a long time so I understand the basics and how important certain parts is and that you want one thing more than the other depending on what you're using the gear for.

I'll use it for spotting targets from afar(hunting, shooting range), but also general viewing of landscape.

Do they come with "night vision"? And if so, I'm guessing that it's far out of my budget?

The focal length could be from 300 to 1200 and I'd have to choose the best from the aperture.

Oh yeah, is there any brands I should look out for? Good and bad.

Post pictures of your scopes please!