Rangefinders and Spotting Scopes

[A-R]

So I've got $200 in Cabela's gift cards coming my way (credit card rewards program). Been thinking about either getting a rangefinder or upgrading my little spotting scope. But don't know much about either.

This is the spotting scope I have http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templ ... hasJS=true" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

It's OK at the 100-yard range, but sometimes .223 holes can be difficult to see. It says 12-50mm but it's really only clearly viewable up to about 35mm or so.

I'm partial to Nikon glass from my photography days, but even their ProStaff line starts at $400 for a 16-48mm model http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templ ... hasJS=true" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Anyone have any other recommendations for a good spotting scope less than $400 (Cabela's prices - their gift card)? I already have tripods and such, so just need a worthwhile scope.

As for rangefinders, I don't have a clue what I'm looking at but of course always look at Nikon first. Here's what Cabela's offers:
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templ ... =cat602006" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Seems the big difference is range out to about 500 meters or to 1,000 (and that seems like one of those better to have it and not need than the opposite kind of decisions) ... anything else to worry about in practical use? They're all basically line-of-sight laser rangefinders, right? Any other brands? Gizmos I simply "must have" on one of these? Other than the basic requirements of good glass (fog proof, clarity and sharpness, etc) what else is important in a rangefinder?