All of my rifles have Leoupold scopes on them. They are a little bet more expensive, but if you think about the number of years that you will own it, it is not that bad. Nikon makes a quality scope, no doubt. But in my opinion, when it comes to optics, you get what you pay for.
The last scope I did buy, I bought of of ebay. It was new in the box and saved me about $75. So you may check there.