The brightest two scopes that I've ever owned were a Nikon Monarch 3.5 X 10 X 50mm and a Bushnell Elite 4200 4 x 16 x 50mm. They both were WWWWAAAAAYYYY brighter than my Leupolds. I will stick with Leupolds for other reasons....they have more than enough light gathering ability and hold up best to recoil.
Do a search for DNR Sports out of PA. You will be amazed at their prices...you have to actually call for the "real" prices.
I would highly recomend the Nikon for $350 or if you have more to spend, look at the Nikon Gold 2.5 x 10 x 56mm for $500.