Also, for the Vortex, you could get a Diamondback 2-7 BDC in your price range. Slightly better optic, in my shopping opinion. I have the 2-8 Nikon Monarch on my AR and picked up a Vortex Diamondback HP 2-8x to compare. One is going to live on my #1 Ruger 45-70. One will be on the AR. Likely, they are indistinguishable to my eyes and tastes.
I dont really know about the Nikon 223 models. I find that style of scope to cut optical quality for mechanicals and be decent budget scopes for all around use, but I haven't bought one....just shopped them.