I personally have found TR's training, advice and judgement to be very sound. I actually teach CCH here and gladly pass on what he has taught me to my new students. Speaking of which, in the Spring I am heading out there for some well-earned rest and some training, so you had better start loading rounds now, Boss!!!
As far as the scopes go, I do not have any real experience with them, but have had experience with the folks that use them. It does indeed depend on what you will be using it for. Many of the guys have more than one scope for just that reason. I always go with the advice that you will have to decide on what will work for you. I have heard some awesome things about S&B, but they cost a few dimes. I personally would start with something less expensive and decide if I needed something better. But then again, I am only a student, so I am perpetually broke.