Scope Decision

[Big joe]

Well I just got the call from Walmart... My Stevens model 200 .223 just arrived. I've been trying to decide on a scope. Maybe you can help! I could spend $300 but would like to spend less if it wouldn't matter TOO much. I plan to use it for coyote hunting, target shooting and just plinking. my two major questions are ...(1)... 3X9 or greater magnification. and (2)... what brand -- or best bang for the buck in other words. So if you were me... What would you do and why?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts...